Visual Reference Studio

was founded in 2006 and designs and produces experiential objects and furniture that engage the senses. This focus reflects the studio’s passion for exploring and developing materials and experimenting with processes. The firm is led by Nuno Goncalves Ferreira and Erin Hayne, a Portuguese artist and American designer, who draw from their backgrounds in sculpture and textiles to impart a unique blend of material sensibility and meaning to their work.

Visual Reference Studio

introduced its thermosensitive Swamp Stool and Please Touch Pillows at the 2008 International Contemporary Furniture Fair in New York, where the collection was widely celebrated as was the studio’s mentality. In developing this project, Visual Reference Studio was interested in how furniture could encourage people to connect with objects and each other in more thoughtful, human ways. The responses that our thermosensitive furniture has received: (smiles, laughter, stories, conversations, and lots of people happily lounging about) seem to suggest that it’s possible.

Visual Reference Studio

’s thermosenstive products have been featured in design publications including Ottagono, Damn Magazine, Elle Decoration Hong Kong, Interior Design, and MocoLoco and at events such as the 2008 Sundance Film Festival.

Visual Reference Studio

is located in the United States and manufactures its products locally in the state of Mississippi. Local production allows us to carefully monitor the quality of our products and ensure that each piece is carefully and beautifully crafted.