Movers & Makers: Adam Smith
Small businesses, makers, and creatives are the heart and soul of the city. Meet our creative client, Adam Smith, Owner of A.B. Smith Design and Fabrication. We asked Adam to answer some of our burning questions about his business! Check out his story and learn about his business journey. Also, make sure you follow him and his work on Instagram: @absmithdesignfab
When did you begin your business? Did anything in particular inspire you to start it?
My business, A.B. Smith Design and Fabrication, is just a few years old. I am a one-man metal shop. The opportunity arose when I left a full-time job to focus on renovating our kitchen at home. When we realized we could make due with only my wife's salary, we decided it would be a good time for me to go to work for myself.
What is your background?
I grew up about an hour northwest of Philly in a rural area that is ever-dwindling due to suburban sprawl. Headed down to Savannah, GA to go to art school in 2001, where I studied metals and jewelry. There I met my wife, a lifelong Southern gal, and we moved up to Philly in 2007.
Can you tell us a little bit about your work?
I really like doing smaller scale projects like furniture, cabinet door pulls, plant stands, etc. But lately I've been doing a lot of handrails for residential staircases, which can be quite challenging. I am beginning to turn my focus to designing products that can be manufactured in large quantities. I'm currently designing a package delivery dropbox that mounts on the front of your home to keep packages secure from porch pirates. Keep an eye out for that one.
Who inspires you and why?
My wife is so incredibly talented at what she does, and has more drive than anyone I know.
Do you live in Philadelphia? If so, which neighborhood?
Yep! We bought our home in East Kensington in 2011. We have done a lot of DIY renovation to it.
Where do you go in Philadelphia to find inspiration?
Although I don't get there nearly often enough, I love the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Barnes Museum.
What is one thing you need in your work space to make it your own?
Music! I have music on all day in the shop. Usually WXPN, WKDU or an old iPod. Beers in the mini fridge is pretty nice too.
Check outAdam’s work…
Photo source: Instagram @memphistap
What is your favorite local Philadelphia restaurant?
Memphis Taproom in Fishtown, hands down. It's walkable from home, they have a great beer list, lots of vegan options, and the best bartenders and servers. It feels so comfortable there.
What is your favorite thing about Philadelphia culture?
The "no one likes us and we don't care" attitude. Philly isn't trying to be anything but itself.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Don't be afraid to make something ugly because it won't be the last thing you make. From jewelry artist Robert Ebendorf.
What is one thing that has changed your perspective in life? (a book, a movie, a person, a life event)
I think living in Philly has changed my perspective on everything. Where I grew up was somewhat rural and definitely had a conservative small town vibe. Living in a big city changes that. You realize how many different kinds of people there are, from all different walks of life, in all different economic situations. It gives a person a different appreciation for humanity.
What is your favorite place you’ve ever traveled to?
We were able to go to France a few years ago. Paris was fine, but Southern France was amazing. We toured all around the countryside and explored the small towns. We stayed at an olive orchard. When we arrived, the host handed us a bottle of wine from a neighboring vineyard that was one of the best I've ever had. He was so friendly and hospitable.
Check out Adam’s work on Instagram @absmithdesignfab