Some 15 years ago, Miles Redd met David Kaihoi when Kaihoi was working as an art installer. Now, as the duo closes in on 11 years working together, Redd is officially naming Kaihoi partner at the firm, whose name will be updated accordingly to Redd & Kaihoi.
In their Manhattan offices, it’s easy to see why this move makes sense: The two not only convey a mutual admiration, but make it clear that they—like the best of creative pairs—consistently bring out the best in each other’s work. When I arrive one afternoon to find Redd and Kaihoi huddled over a blueprint in their colorful home base, the pair recalls how they first started working together. “We always had such a great rapport,” says Kaihoi. “I had a great respect for Miles and his work. It wasn’t my field, but he did it so well that I wanted to be a part of it.”
“You just could see the raw talent in David,” Redd reflects. “He just could do anything. I mean, I met him through a picture-hanging company. But he always had side gigs,” he marvels, turning his attention toward Kaihoi: “You would be making things for Donna Karan. I always thought you should go into fashion! You are just naturally gifted. So,” he explains, “I scooped him up!”