Tom White makes cool stuff

Meet Tom White, a Coeur d’Alene native who specializes in custom furniture, home decor and fabrication. A skilled prop maker and all around sci-fi geek.

Generation:

“Technically, I fall in that micro generation. I believe they call it Xennials? Between Generation X and the millenials.”

Career and community involvement:

“(I’m) owner/operator of White’s Modern Industrial, owner/operator of Craftsmen’s Studio. White’s Modern Industrial doesn’t have a physical location, but people can contact me at whitesmodernindustrial@gmail.com or (208) 691-0349.”

Parental status:

“Father to my awesome daughter and partner in making, Davi.”

1. What exactly is “modern industrial?”

“Most of my design inspiration starts with mid-century design, and my material of choice is typically metal, so for me it’s a mix of those two design elements.”

2. What are a few of the coolest things you make or have made?

“That’s tough.... Furniture is always fun to make, and (especially) any time I get to age, distress or patina a piece. The process of getting to give some individuality to a piece, or give it a story is very satisfying. I also do some metal sculpture work, foamcraft, scratch model making and, more recently, clay sculpture. Any chance I can get to try a new skill, or work with a new material, that’s very exciting.”

3. What is one of the biggest lessons you have learned while running a business with your dad?

“Oh, so many. I grew up watching and helping him make so many different things, and learned all the basic skills I needed at an early age. More recently, it’s been more about managing expectations and managing our time.”

4. What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

“A lot of people are surprised that I spent time in the Marine Corps.”

5. What is your personal mantra or philosophy?

“Collect skills. There is so much information out there, so I’m always seeking out the masters of their crafts, and learning as much as I can from them.”