This year, we’ve never been more grateful for connections—the figurative ones and the literal ones. Many of us on the Shinola team are kept juiced up and online because of a Shinola Power Supply Strip, made in collaboration with our friends at Byrne Electric. In fact, we’ve been putting them through the ringer lately. Long days getting bumped and shuffled around, yanked on and switched out and—well, used. That’s just the thing we love about them. They’re not plastic shells; with a rubber base, they stick where you put them and stay there. Die-cast metal gives them a comforting heft. The quick-charging USB ports are borderline genius. And their greatest feature? They’re a sight for sore eyes—not an eyesore.
We asked the fine folks at Byrne Electric to give us a look into their world—a world where power strips can and should be beautiful. They shared their craft, mission, and what it takes to build something that lasts.
Tell us a little bit about Byrne Electric and the products you make.
We’re electrical experts with a curiosity and innovative spirit that spans five decades. We’re problem solvers. If you can dream it, Byrne can build it – it’s just the way we’re wired. Our products are all about creating powerful connections. It’s a power that builds communities and brings us all a little closer together.
How do you build something that stands up to daily use as well as these Power Supply Strips?
In today’s disposable economy, we pride ourselves on creating something that lasts. Something real. We build each product to order. We’re deliberate in everything we do – paying close attention to detail and putting our products through testing that goes above and beyond what’s required.
What separates a short-term item from a life-long good?
It has to be built with intention, and a lot of thought centered around the design. Here, products aren’t about simple utility. They combine form and function in meaningful ways. We take the entire lifecycle of each product very seriously, mindful of every decision from creation to retirement.
“The goal is beautiful, even stubborn, durability. From maker to user, the piece should feel timeless. Like it’s here to stay.” – Dan Byrne, CEO.
Why go through all the trouble to make something that lasts?
Because sometimes – nearly always, really – the longer, harder road is worth it. Few things of value come easy. They take time and effort, but in the end the results are something to celebrate, and something we can all be proud of.
Do you ever envision the life your product will lead once it’s in someone’s hands?
Every product designed by Byrne is inspired and fueled by the people who will use it. But its journey is unknown and honestly as limitless as the number of connections it will create.
What is the hope you have for every product you make?
That our products bring people together – with technology and each other. This year, we’ve seen the need for human connection played out in countless, life-changing ways. Whatever the circumstances, wherever we go, these connections build community and give us a sense of belonging. They help bridge the distances – social and otherwise – and make us all a little more powerful.
This piece is part of a Holiday 2020 series highlighting some of our favorite products and the American makers who craft them. It’s our tribute to enduring, heirloom-worthy goods—and a look inside at what it takes to build things the long way. This year especially, we are grateful for every pair of hands that go to work crafting the goods we offer, with skill, thoughtfulness, and intention.