paul m hickman
635 fifth street, ann arbor, mi 48103
734.997.0257 voice 734.997.0257 facimile
info@paulmhickman.com www.paulmhickman.com

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paul m hickman
Designer


Email:info@paulmhickman.com

BFA: Intermedia
Arizona State University

mission

By creating environmentally conscious objects and spaces, paul m hickman strives to fulfill two basic needs: our needs for beauty and utility. Drawing on years of experience with simple, sometimes unconventional, materials and highly refined techniques, the work is intended to evoke an emotional awareness of its elegance yet blend subtly into its surrounding environment. The process becomes imperative — and many times is left visible so that we can remember the act of coming into being.

history

While at Arizona State University, Paul seized upon Intermedia as a vehicle to marry new and salvaged materials, painted and projected graphics, audio, video and lighting. Following the completion of his BFA, he spent 12 years building a notable career as a designer/project manager in the scenic-arts industry, where he experimented, refined and expanded his design repertoire. In 1996, after 16 years of working with toxic and environmentally degrading paints and materials, he embarked on a search for safer and environmentally conscious alternatives — ultimately leading him to start his own firm. Today, while designing for residential and commercial clients, Paul's spaces, furniture and finishes incorporate his commitment to "green design," interest in Japanese aesthetics, fondness of industrial hardware, love of subtle textures and finishes, and appreciation of the female form as a graphic element. His work can be found throughout the country in retail stores, restaurants, theme parks, trade shows and residences. Paul was also a recent board member of the Northern California chapter of Architects/Designers/Planners for Social Responsibility.

services

studio furniture:

Paul's free-standing and built-in furniture designs often include details that hold personal meaning for the commissioner — a map of the Battle of Shilo etched on the glass of a cabinet to house a client's collection of Civil War books — or pay homage to the surrounding environment — side rails of a headboard that incorporate a detail from the client's window handles. Paul also offers a selection of limited-production pieces.

architectural elements and furnishings:

From decorative header panels for a kitchen and hand-made register covers to a 9’ bathroom mirror etched with the Temple of Artemis and a faux-stone triptych of the excavation site at Ephesus, Paul's designs personalize spaces while bringing coherence to the overall aesthetic. surface finishing: Paul specializes in subtle, multi-layered antique finishes and patinas. His unique paint finishes have been applied to walls, floor tiles, furniture — even register covers. Because he uses organic, non-toxic finishes, Paul is able to work with people who have chemical sensitivities.

surface finishing:

Paul specializes in subtle, multi-layered antique finishes and patinas. His unique paint finishes have been applied to walls, floor tiles, furniture — even register covers. Because he uses organic, non-toxic finishes, Paul is able to work with people who have chemical sensitivities.

materials consulting:

Utilizing his extensive knowledge of “green” building materials, Paul helps bring to life highly functional and personal environments through consulting, specifying materials, and project management. Paul is experienced working with architects, general contractors, sub-contractors and other designers.