Newport Works

Aspiring designer, Song recently launched Newport Works after seven years of architectural studies at Cambridge University and the CASS while also working for Wright & Wright Architects in London. In his own words, the idea to launch a new range of folios and portfolios came from one simple observation: ‘the current portfolios available are visually unimpressive, damage easily, and don’t do justice to the creative process’. Song wanted something that could be transported by car, train, tube, taxi, etc. without the designs inside becoming damaged in any way.

Working with Song from concept stage, Progress helped develop the products from the initial sketches and CAD drawings. A range of materials were tested throughout the process to ensure the portfolios were the best quality and strength. In the end, both A3 and A2 folios were produced, all made using a polyester mix (50% polyester, 50% acrylic) with a waterproof PVC lining. The inners were lined in cotton twill, with EVA padding included to protect the contents inside. These were then fitted with nylon-webbed handles, zip closures, black metal corner protectors and care labels, as well as a rivet and cord tie. The final designs were split over four colours.