Michael Ford Translates Hip-Hop Culture into Carpet Tile

On Instagram he’s known as the “hip-hop architect” and it’s that passion for the musical form—currently celebrating its big 5-0—that infuses Michael Ford’s new carpet tile collection. The multihyphenate talent, whose social justice–minded firm, BrandNu Design, has offices in Detroit, Dallas, and Madison, Wisconsin, brings a conceptual, research-informed approach to his work, and this series is no exception. Dubbed Mike Ford x Shaw Contract, the five rhythmic, energetic patterns honor and interpret different facets of hip-hop culture, from the makeshift cardboard platforms that break-dancers of the 1970’s and ’80s laid on the ground to use as dance floors to the complexities of lyrical analysis. In DJ, vertical lines mimic the stacked records carried to parties; MC reflects the artistry of rap lyrics through mathematical analysis; and Graffiti channels the collective public art form and fluid lettering styles via a layered composition. Tiles are made from EcoSolution Q solution-dyed recyclable nylon fiber that offers excellent color retention and reduced soiling. Pass the mic!