
August 21, 2023
A Carpet Collection Commemorates Hip-Hop
“Understanding the capabilities of the machines was new to me,” Ford says of his collaboration on the Mike Ford + Shaw Contract rug collection. “Translating ideas that could then be manufactured was a process in patience.”
Mike Ford

Three colorways echo both layers of music and the textures of the pile underfoot. “We utilized a combination of vibrant and muted tones to mirror the dynamic contrasts often found in hip-hop, from its bold powerful beats to its introspective, poignant lyrics,” the architect explains.
A portion of the proceeds from the collection will be donated to help fund Hip Hop Architecture Camp, a program that offers students from underrepresented groups a lively and sometimes star-studded introduction to the profession. Ford launched it in 2016. He says the Shaw collaboration, paired with his advocacy, means he now has one more way to share his passion with the next generation.
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