In the heart of rural central-western New Jersey, Shannon and Marc Laul have shared a deep and enduring partnership since their days as high school sweethearts. Their more than three decades of marriage have been joyfully defined by their collaborative creativity—a journey guided by their shared values. For Shannon and Marc, kindness is at the core of everything they do: kindness to our world, to our planet, and to our fellow humans. 

Even after all these years together, Shannon and Marc can still be found side by side—whether in their welding and metal shop, wood shop, or finishing studio. They still have a blast working hard, laughing harder, and bringing their unique visions to life.

Shannon is the full-time owner and lead creator at Otter Designworks. Marc brings his expertise as the Technical Services Director at a large mechanical contracting firm into many of their commissioned works. His technical skills and artistic insights often help turn Shannon’s imaginative concepts into tangible works of art. Together, their collaboration results in distinctive pieces that blend artistic flair with practical know-how.

The fruits of their partnership are often utilitarian works of art, crafted from a combination of metal, wood, acrylic, and glass. Each piece they create is customized and one-of-a-kind, ranging from large installations to small, delicate objects. Whether they’re working with welded metal, rough cuts of exotic wood, or a fusion of materials, their attention to detail shines in every creation. 

Shannon and Marc pour their hearts into every project, merging their skills in wood and metalworking with a deep appreciation for salvaged materials and recycling. Their entire creative process is a testament to their commitment to nature, animals, and the planet.

It is this unique blend of diverse materials and unmistakable positivity that infuses their work with both heartfelt meaning and practical design. Every creation is a crossroads where handcrafted artistry meets precise engineering. Whether whimsical or memorable, commissioned or freely imagined, Shannon and Marc aim for each client to feel a sense of purpose and joy in the pieces they produce.