Companion is situated on the windy west coast of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Here, hats are essential. With a hole in the ozone layer above their heads, their functional forms often come with under-chin ties & include brim breadths ranging from brief to extra broad.

Companion’s simple series of hats emerge from thoughtful design practice, encouraging acts of care for the self, the environment & the other. Each hat is carefully created in collaboration with migrants & former refugees now living in Aotearoa.

Contemporary design outcomes are explored via collisions of traditions. Much made is 100% unique – with marks of artisan’s hands & minds. Slow Design principles are adhered to, considering environmental & social sustainability.