OUR MAKERS

Sevilla Smith runs a bit differently than we are typically used to as consumers. 

The traditional model of a central production space makes sense financially and productivity wise for almost all businesses.  But I found that the flexibility of where, and when, I worked had profound effects on my personal life, especially after having a child.  This business was a chance for me to change, not only my own work life balance, but to affect this balance on everyone who made shoes for Sevilla Smith. 

So without hesitation, I made sure to set us up as quickly as possible where people could work wherever, and when, they chose.  Some of our shoemakers love and need to work from home so the can alleviate child care costs, or just to have the luxury of wearing pajamas while working.  Others prefer the companionship that comes with shared workspaces.  Every workspace is set up with full sets of our Sevilla Smith shoe lasts but each has it's own unique personality. 

Here's a little peak at the makers and spaces behind Sevilla Smith.....

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Faye, Founder/Designer/Shoemaker: Barcelona and Philadelphia

I learned to make shoes by a chance encounter in the streets of Barcelona and started Sevilla Smith with the idea of making shoes that I, myself, found ideal and fitting for my life.  I design and make while trying to address everything from aesthetics to how our shoes smell.  The ability to travel is critical in my life and the comfort and aesthetic flexibility comes to the forefront.

Workspace: Currently, I create from a small and sunny space in a shared workshop in Barcelona.  In Philadelphia, I work in the 4th floor attic of my early 1800's row home, right next to my son's bedroom.

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Joe, Shoemaker: Barcelona, Spain

I first met Joe thru another shoemaker who made classic men's shoes.  His heart lays in the wonderful tradition of the craft and is always inspired by great design.  He is launching his brand of men's shoes and shoemaking for us has been a wonderful way to keep working on shoes and his own projects.

Workspace: Joe makes either in our shared workshop or in a space of his beautiful home in Barcelona overlooking a sunny terraza.

"After leaving the rat race of London and landing in Barcelona I took sometime out. With some time on my hands I searched out an old shoe maker who’d been making since he was 13 (he’s now 70). He spoke no English and I know no Catalan, with a lot a gesturing and watching I picked up the basics and more importantly fell in love with this gentle craft... as they say the rest is history I’ll never go back to a 9-5 job!"

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Ramiro, Bag Maker: Barcelona, Spain

I met Ramiro thru a mutual leather source.  He is the person who puts together and sews the components of our bags before it is hand molded.  He is always thorough and after years of working with mega corporations, knows all the ins and outs of production while still staying a true artisan.

Workspace: Ramiro makes out of his bustling workshop in Barcelona.

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