Kin Studios is located on my late grandparents’ old farm on the north side of Lake Tapps, Washington. The studio sits among old-growth douglas firs, western red cedars, and alders, with meadows, a pond, and a creek running through the property. This place is more than a backdrop; it is the heart of the studio and a constant source of inspiration. Every project begins here, where the natural world reminds me of the quiet power of patience, craft, and care.
Founded by designer Kinsey Johnson, Kin Studios grew from the idea of uniting family, design, and the enduring beauty of natural materials. The name Kin reflects both a personal connection and a philosophy. It stems from my own name and speaks to the importance of kinship with the relationships that shape us, the materials we work with, and the landscapes that sustain us. The plural form, Studios, speaks to our multi-faceted practice, where custom fabrication, fine art, design, and development of our product line intersect. This intersection of disciplines reflects a single aim: to create honest, lasting work that carries the warmth of human connection and the integrity of craft.
My background spans industrial design, furniture, interiors, and architecture. Before founding Kin Studios, I spent years collaborating with international designers and studios responsible for shaping contemporary furniture collections and some of the world’s most thoughtful interiors and architectural spaces. Those experiences taught me to see design from multiple perspectives and scales, to understand both concept and craft, proportion and detail, and to bring ideas into harmony with material and place.
We work with designers, architects, and private clients to bring ideas to life through furniture, built-ins, and wood-based design projects. Each collaboration begins as a dialogue, shaped by curiosity and trust. Our role is to translate vision into physical form, refining every element until the piece feels balanced, intentional, and enduring.
Our connection to the forest is personal and central to our practice. We use only responsibly and thoughtfully sourced wood, chosen not only for its beauty but also for its integrity and story. We work with suppliers who share our commitment to sustainable forestry and ethical material use. Protecting the forests that inspire us is both an obligation and an act of gratitude, ensuring that the materials we rely on continue to thrive for generations to come.
We believe the best work is born from intention and made by hand. Every piece from Kin Studios is produced in limited runs or as a one-off commission. Working in small batches allows us to maintain an uncommon level of care and connection between designer, maker, and client. We select each board, refine every joint, and finish each surface with care, ensuring the work carries both precision and soul.