History

The history of MADWORKSHOP is tied to David and Mary Martin’s personal interests. Their lives are immersed in art, architecture, and design.

MADWORKSHOP’s beginnings date back to 2005 when David Martin was approached to teach a furniture design studio at the USC School of Architecture. The course’s emphasis on hands-on fabrication resonated with students and connected with a greater trend in the study of design. It continues to be a highly popular course, and is currently led by MADWORKSHOP Advisory Board Member, Scott Mitchell.

In 2013, with the furniture design course firmly established, the Martins turned their attention to a new challenge for USC’s architecture students. They personally sponsored a class focused on the design of a site-specific pedestrian bridge. The structure would span a 75-foot wide arroyo, sit below the existing tree line, take advantage of open spaces and views, and blend in with the surrounding landscape. This design course was also led by Scott Mitchell, who shared his expertise in robotics technology with students to arrive at a compelling design solution. Construction was completed in 2020.