It began with building primitive forts in the woods behind my childhood home in western NY. That home was built on land that has been in my family for generations using salvaged 2x4's and the original foundation. Through love and labor my parents transformed it into a home for their growing family that was always filled with the smells of food cooking, and the sound of children running around.

When I moved to Vermont in the 90’s, I found a rich life working in the abundant local food community. Though I was quite fulfilled on that path, I was drawn to once again engage in the creation of physical objects.

I founded RIVEN in 2013 as a furniture design studio in Burlington’s south end arts district. I am grateful to put my hands towards work that speaks to my values. I build mostly with wood, utilizing tradition methods of craftsmanship, and a design process that follows function to define form.

Matthew Hastings