Lightening Round With New Format Studios’ Henry Norris

Hot tip: there’s no better way to find about fun things to do (or eat) than to ask a person you admire. So this month, we called up New Format Studio founder and director Henry Norris and asked him to share a few of his favourite activities and pop-culture obsessions—after all, he can’t possibly be just grinding away making beautiful credenzas all the time, right? Here’s how keeps himself busy outside of the workshop.

What are you listening to these days? 

My podcast du jour is Materially Speaking in which artists/artisans talk about the materials that they use and that inspire them. Emmy Lou Harris is a go-to for music. 

What’s your go-to place to eat in the city? 

We moved to Victoria Drive a year ago and I’m still trying out the whole neighbourhood. Highlights include Kozak Ukrainian Bakery, Bun Cha Ca Hoang Yen (be prepared to wait in line) and the sandwich factory that is Banh Mi Saigon. 

Fave greasy spoon diner? 

Shout out to Truck Stop on Clark. 

Best coffee in the city? 

I can’t speak to the best coffee but the best vibe is an espresso from Caffe Calabria. 

Reading or read anything lately that you love? 

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin 

What are you watching right now? 

Boxing and it’s shambolic universe of content and hype videos… or the docuseries of the moment. 

What’s your fave place to go to admire Vancouver’s beauty? 

Spanish Banks, 

It’s Saturday and you have free time unexpectedly… what are you doing and where are you going? 

If my little man is in tow, we are going to see a friend or family—life is full and I can barely keep up with seeing all the people I care about. If it’s a no-kid day, dust off the mountain bike and hit Fromme or Seymour. 

Best ice cream or dessert in the city? 

Let’s talk about the cereal milk donut at Mello.