Bio:
The great designer, Academically trained as an architect, Brian Keith Ellison practiced residential real estate development in Chicago for almost 15 years. Relocating to Amsterdam, The Netherlands from 2006 - 2008 Ellison shifted his career to furniture design and fabrication. First introduced to woodworking as a teen, Ellison evolved this interest into a full time practice where he currently designs and fabricates wood based furniture and products for residential, corporate, and commercial environments.

How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I was fortunate to have 4 years of drafting in high school. That, combined with 4 years of wood shop in high school is what cultivated my interests in both architecture and woodworking.

What do you do?
In addition to my client projects, I teach woodworking and design to returning citizens through a partnership with Safer Foundation. I also appeared in 8 out of 10 episodes on “Framework”, a SPKIE TV furniture design-based reality competition.

What excites you in the work you do?
The ability for me to capture my client’s vision through my work is very fulfilling. I gain pleasure from the excitement that all of my clients have expressed when completing and installing my work. I also enjoy the physical act of creating.

Who or what inspires you professionally?
I get a lot of my inspiration from both organic and rigid forms. Be it a tree or a skyscraper, when I see something that strikes me, I usually incorporate it into my work. Another inspiration is the work of my colleagues.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
One of my proudest achievements was deciding to walk away from a well-developed career in real estate development, move to Amsterdam for 2 years to pursue my passion of creating beautiful pieces that impact this world in a positive manner.
 
Featured Project Location: 
Chicago, IL
 
Featured Project Completion Date: 
Ongoing

Role in Featured Project: 
Designer and Fabricator
 
Featured Project Description:
Various residential and corporate projects. Photo 1: Custom solid Oak table and wall hung credenza. Photo 2: Residential “wetbar”. Space was designed by BKE Designs and complimented with 8 custom pieces fabricated by BKE Designs. Photo 3: Custom solid Walnut dining table and booth. Photo 4: Residential media room. Cabinets and shelving is painted Poplar. Rosewood tile wall accent, LED lighting. Photo 5: Custom solid Walnut storage unit/entertainment center with bluetooth sound system and LED lighting.

Photography Credit:
Dimitri Photos: “Wetbar” and “Dining Table and Booth”