Building Block

Building Block x Rowena Sartin's Le Purse

Price: $495

Collaboration between two conceptualists results in some unexpectedly charming stuff. A structured handbag in a size that combines practical and desirable (is that luxury?). One interior slip pocket, half-moon handle, magnetic flap closure. Detachable strap/necklace made from mixed chain. Embossed logo on front. 6" h x 8" w x 3.5" d; 3.5" handle drop, 20" strap drop.

Building Block

Rucksack, Black

Price: $595

Smooth leather, rubber handle, brass hardware. Adjustable straps, lined interior. One interior pocket, zip closure, magnetic exterior flap. Fits 13" laptop. Embossed logo on back. 14.5" h x 13" w x 3" d.

Building Block

Mini Rucksack, Black

Price: $525

Smooth leather, rubber handle, brass hardware. Adjustable straps, lined interior. One interior pocket, zip closure, magnetic exterior flap. Embossed logo on back. 11.8" h x 11.5" w x 3" d.

Building Block

Pocket Tote, Black

Price: $460

Soft, pliable leather, but includes removable leather lined base. So it can be purely relaxed or retain bottom structure. Two exterior pockets, rubber shoulder straps. Unlined. Embossed logo on front. 12" h x 15.75" w x 7" d; 11.5" strap drop.

Building Block

iPhone Sling, Black

Price: $125

Wear it with earbuds as you work if you're moving around, it really works well. Double card holder on reverse in addition to main compartment. Smooth leather, rubber shoulder strap. Fits iPhone 6S/7. Embossed logo on back. 6.5" h x 4" w; 22" strap drop.

Building Block

iPhone Sling, Veg Tan

Price: $125

Wear it with earbuds as you work if you're moving around, it really works well. Double card holder on reverse in addition to main compartment. Natural veg tan leather and shoulder strap. Fits iPhone 6S/7. Embossed logo on back. 6.5" h x 4" w; 22" strap drop.

Building Block are a design studio based in Los Angeles, not a studio that designs bags. It starts with an approach, rather than an aesthetic. And a way of thinking about form and materiality and their various uses. The work fits together, piece by piece (not season by season), not necessarily going day to night or occasion. Really look at them; each seems to work within context independently. These styles are not classics re-imagined, definitely not. They're insistently contemporary, as we see them. To seek that ineffable physical, to manifest desire in the holding back. And it can only really be sought after with equal parts quality production, element, and inspiration.