A native of Cornwall, Max Lamb was interested in how the durable qualities of Divina could be used as workwear. “The fisherman’s smock has been an essential outer layer of workwear for British fishermen for over a century and is a classic example of functional, utilitarian clothing that has since been adopted by painters, sculptors, potters, and craftsmen alike,” says Lamb.

Smock illustrates an alternative application for the Divina fabric. Its technical properties make it well suited to long-lasting protective workwear; highly insulating, breathable, naturally water-repellent and moisture wicking, non-fraying, and abrasion resistant. “Divina is a highly engineered woven and felted textile offering both excellent durability and aesthetics for demanding conditions,” says Lamb.

The smock’s short sleeves prevent the cuffs from getting wet or dirty, while the generous cut and high neck ensure maximum comfort and protection from whatever conditions are at play. Reduced to an essential geometric pattern with economy in mind, each Smock uses less than 1.2 metres of fabric for minimum waste.

A modern day craftsman, Max Lamb is a furniture designer whose design sensibility is informed by his extensive knowledge of manufacturing techniques, respect for materials, and skill as a maker.

His childhood tinkering with objects and curiosity about the physical landscape led to an MA in Design Products at the Royal College of Arts and subsequently the foundation of his workshop-based design practice. Lamb explores both traditional and unconventional materials and processes, blending experimentation and rationale to create furniture and products that are both honest and intelligible.

Lamb teaches Design Products at the Royal College of Art and runs regular design workshops for companies and institutions around the world.