Welcome to Forge 53° – Craftsmanship Rooted in Tradition and Innovation

At Forge 53°, craftsmanship isn’t just a skill—it’s a tradition we take pride in. As a client, you’re partnering with a team that seamlessly cares about quality, innovation, and a commitment to service. Whether it’s custom metalwork or furniture designs, our dedication to quality and your satisfaction remains our top priority. Read on to discover what makes Forge 53° stand out.

FORGE 53° HISTORY

Craftsmanship and Innovation: Forge 53° is built on a foundation of passion for metalwork. Every piece we create combines time-honoured craftsmanship with modern techniques to ensure exceptional results for your project.

Edmonton Roots: Our name, Forge 53°, represents our strong connection to Edmonton, located at 53 degrees north latitude. We take pride in our local roots while delivering projects that resonate far beyond.

At Forge 53°, we strive to exceed expectations on every project. Our values are:

  • Quality & Innovation: We aim to deliver products and set new standards for design and craftsmanship.

  • Integrity: We approach every project with transparency and honesty.

  • Customer Focus: Your vision and satisfaction are at the heart of everything we do.

  • Resilience & Dedication: We tackle challenges head-on, ensuring every project is a success.

Our work has been recognized by top publications like Architectural Digest, highlighting our ability to produce standout projects. From Edmonton to international markets like Los Angeles, our reach continues to grow, and we’re proud to bring our expertise to each client’s unique needs.

We are dedicated to giving back to the community that supports us. As an Edmonton-based business, we actively engage with local initiatives and create products that contribute to the city’s growth. Every piece we design not only enhances your project but also leaves a lasting legacy in the community.

Jesse Rudiger-Aasgard seated in a lil Lumsden chair with Mike Muirhead standing beside him

Jesse Rudiger-Aasgard & Mike Muirhead

The Lumsden Legacy – Forging Our Own Path

  • The Origin of the Lumsden Chair:

    • The Lumsden chair symbolizes the bold spirit of Forge 53°, born from a pivotal trip to Los Angeles by founders Mike Muirhead and Jesse Rudiger-Aasgard.

    • Originally, Mike and Jesse had a 10-year plan to expand Forge 53°’s reach from Edmonton to Calgary, Kelowna, Vancouver, and eventually to design hubs like Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

    • In a moment of inspiration during a brainstorming session in their boardroom, they decided to bypass the slow and steady approach. They booked flights to Los Angeles, taking a chance to introduce themselves to top designers featured in Architectural Digest.

  • The LA Trip – A Leap of Faith:

    • Armed with only $2,000, Mike and Jesse flew to LA, bringing with them unique gifts—Coffee Crisp chocolate bars and ketchup chips (Canadian treats unavailable in the U.S.)—to break the ice.

    • Their friendly and approachable demeanour, a departure from the typical rough-around-the-edges welding shop persona, opened doors that they hadn’t expected.

    • They secured meetings with some of LA’s top design firms, including Kelly Wearstler, Kari Whitman Interiors, Aaron Duke Design, and Twentieth Furniture Gallery. They even connected with artists at the Kinney Hotel in Santa Monica during an art exhibit.

  • The Result – The Lumsden Chair and Beyond:

    • The trip was a resounding success, leading to project drawings in hand from LA designers for a high-end apartment building in Baltimore, Maryland.

    • The Lumsden chair, named after Jesse’s mother’s street in Old Strathcona, became a symbol of Forge 53°’s ethos: “Never give up, and make things happen.” Jesse’s mother contributed to the creation by handcrafting the cushion for the first chair, which has since been featured in homes, apartment buildings, and outdoor spaces across North America.

  • The Lead Domino – A New Way Forward:

    • This bold move was dubbed the “Lead Domino,” representing the idea that by taking the initiative and forging their own path, they could achieve in months what others take years to do.

    • The Lumsden chair is not just a piece of furniture; it’s a testament to the Forge 53° spirit of determination, innovation, and the belief that success can be created rather than waited for.

414 Light Street Baltimore MD, USA. Designed by Kari Whitman Interiors. Birdcage chairs by Forge 53°.

A red Lumsden chair in front of Edmonton's Muttart Conservatory pyramids

53° North – Our Edmonton Roots

Pride in Our City:

The “53” in Forge 53° stands for the 53rd parallel north, the geographical marker that runs through Edmonton, where Mike Muirhead and Jesse Rudiger-Aasgard were born and raised. Mike and Jesse have been friends since grade 3, back in 1997/1998, forming a bond that would eventually lead to the creation of Forge 53°.

Every time Forge 53° presents its name and work, it’s an opportunity to showcase the pride they have in their city. Edmonton’s spirit of hard work, innovation, and community is embedded in every product that Forge 53° creates. This deep connection to their hometown is a driving force behind their commitment to excellence and their desire to contribute positively to the community that has shaped them.

Humble Beginnings:

Forge 53° was officially founded on January 2, 2015, in the garage of the house where Mike and Jesse lived together. What started as a way to make money using Mike’s manufacturing skills and Jesse’s business development acumen quickly grew into something much more significant.

In 2018, Forge 53° took a significant step forward by hiring their long-time friend Kerrie as the office manager. This was a turning point for the company, as Kerrie, another proud Edmontonian who shares Mike and Jesse’s passion, helped build and shape the Forge 53° brand. With her background in marketing and customer relations, Kerrie has been instrumental in developing the customer relations side of the business, elevating Forge 53°’s customer service. Her contributions have not only strengthened the company’s operations but also deepened its connection to the community, ensuring that every client interaction reflects Forge 53°’s commitment to quality and care.

From those early days in a garage, Forge 53° has grown into a thriving business known across North America for its high-quality, custom metalwork and innovative designs. The journey from a modest garage setup to a recognized name in architectural metalwork is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and dedication that Mike, Jesse, and Kerrie have poured into the company. Their longstanding friendships and shared vision have been key in driving Forge 53°’s success, and their deep roots in Edmonton continue to inspire the company’s growth and innovation.

Mission and Values – Crafting with Purpose

Mission Statement:

At Forge 53°, our mission is to craft timeless architectural metalwork that exceeds expectations through innovation, quality, and dedication. We strive to lead Western Canada in high-end custom metal solutions, blending the precision of craftsmanship with the creativity of design.

Core Values:

  • Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of honesty and ethics in all our work.

  • Teamwork: Every project at Forge 53° is a collaborative effort, with each team member playing a vital role in our success.

  • Continuous Improvement: We are committed to evolving and improving with every project, refining our processes and products to achieve the highest standards.

  • Customer Focus: Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We partner with them to bring their visions to life, ensuring their satisfaction through every step of the process.

  • Resilience: We persevere through challenges, turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and innovation.

  • Dedication: We are deeply committed to our craft, our team, and our clients, consistently striving to deliver excellence in every aspect of our work.

This dedication runs so deep in our founders that Mike got his Lumsden chair tattoo from one of the Petunia Twins, a client of our first Los Angeles clients, Kari Whitman Interiors, for whom we worked on the Baltimore project. We completed their tattoo studio in 2019, marking our first commercial project in California.

This tattoo is more than just ink; it’s a symbol of our unwavering commitment to Forge 53° and everything it stands for. It represents the perseverance, hard work, and passion that have driven our success, as well as the belief that with dedication and resilience, anything is possible.

Tattoo Progress

Tattoo Progress

Mike and the Petunia Twins

Mike and the Petunia Twins

Lumsden Tattoo in Progress

Lumsden Tattoo in Progress

The Petunia Twins in their LA studio designed by Kari Whitman Interiors. Rose Gold hanging chair by Forge 53°.

The Petunia Twins in their LA studio designed by Kari Whitman Interiors. Rose Gold hanging chair by Forge 53°.

Forge Culture: Innovation Meets Tradition

Craftsmanship and Innovation:

At Forge 53°, our work is a celebration of craftsmanship and innovation. We approach every project with a deep respect for the artistry of metalwork, using traditional techniques and the highest quality materials to produce bespoke architectural elements. Whether it’s doors, railings, fixtures, or furniture, each piece we create is crafted with precision and designed to last, embodying the perfect balance of form and function.

Our Products:

All of our product design and fabrication take place in Edmonton, Alberta, on the 53rd northern parallel. Our products and projects are deeply connected to our hometown, with many named after historic Edmonton streets and municipal landmarks.

We specialize in architectural metalwork, including custom metal doors, railings, fixtures, and furniture for both commercial and residential spaces. Our work is featured across North America, including Edmonton, Calgary, Montreal, Kelowna, Vancouver, and several locations in the United States.

Our dedication to excellence has led to significant opportunities beyond Canada. In Los Angeles, we have completed several notable projects, each a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. These include:

  • The Zen Buddha: A tranquil and modern project that showcases our ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

  • Amadeus Restaurant: A high-end dining space where our custom fixtures and metalwork contribute to an atmosphere of elegance and sophistication.

  • Residential Project on Marley Drive: A bespoke furniture project that brought our unique blend of craftsmanship and design to a luxurious LA home.

  • Collaboration with Kelly Wearstler: Most recently, we had the honour of working with the renowned designer on her first Canadian project, further solidifying our reputation for excellence in architectural metalwork.

These projects are not just milestones for Forge 53° but also reflect our relentless dedication to our craft and our clients. They serve as examples of how our Edmonton-based company is making its mark on the world stage, one meticulously crafted piece at a time.

The Zen Buddha

The Zen Buddha

Marley Drive

Marley Drive

Forge 53° in the Media: Recognition and Reach

Media Features:

Forge 53° has been recognized in various media outlets, showcasing our work and contributions to architectural metalwork. Notable features include:

These features highlight the impact of our work and the recognition we’ve earned within the industry.

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Our Commitment to Community and Legacy

1. Supporting Our Community and Partners

At Forge 53°, success is measured not only by the quality of our work but also by the positive impact we have on our community and those who are part of it. We are deeply rooted in the Edmonton area, and our commitment extends far beyond the products we create. Here’s how we contribute:

Community Engagement and Partnerships:

Forge 53° actively collaborates with local businesses, artists, and organizations to foster a network of creativity and support. By partnering with local entities, we help elevate the community and contribute to its economic and cultural vibrancy.

We proudly support local events, charities, and initiatives that align with our values. Whether it’s sponsoring a local arts festival, contributing to community projects, or providing resources for local schools, Forge 53° strives to give back in meaningful ways.

Supporting Our Team and Their Networks:

Forge 53° is more than just a business; it’s a community. We are committed to supporting our team members both professionally and personally. We offer flexible working hours, opportunities for continued education, and a supportive work environment that prioritizes well-being.

We extend this support to the families and friends of our team. Whether it’s offering discounted services for a friend’s new business or being there during challenging times, Forge 53° stands by its people.

Our collaborative culture encourages team members to bring forward ideas and initiatives that benefit the community or their personal networks. We believe in empowering our team to make a difference both inside and outside the workplace.

2. Preserving Edmonton’s History and Culture

Forge 53° is deeply connected to the rich history and culture of Edmonton, and we strive to reflect this heritage in our work. Our products are more than just functional—they are stories forged in metal, inspired by the city that has shaped us.

Incorporating Local Heritage into Design:

Many of our products and projects are named after historic Edmonton streets, municipal landmarks, and Alberta ghost towns. This isn’t just branding—it’s a way to honour the places and stories that have influenced us. For example, the Lumsden chair, named after a street in Old Strathcona, reflects our deep ties to the area and our commitment to preserving its legacy.

Our designs often draw inspiration from Edmonton’s architectural history, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. This fusion of old and new is a testament to our respect for the past and our vision for the future.

Engaging with Local Artists and Craftspeople:

Forge 53° actively collaborates with local artists and craftspeople, incorporating their talents into our projects and providing a platform for their work. These collaborations not only enhance the uniqueness of our products but also help preserve and promote Edmonton’s artistic heritage.

We support local talent by offering apprenticeship opportunities and mentorship, ensuring that the skills and knowledge of Edmonton’s rich metalworking tradition are passed on to future generations.

3. Building a Legacy of Quality and Innovation

At Forge 53°, we are dedicated to crafting products that not only meet the needs of today’s clients but also stand the test of time. Our commitment to quality and innovation is at the core of everything we do, and we strive to leave a lasting impact through our work.

Innovative Design and Craftsmanship:

We continually push the boundaries of what is possible in architectural metalwork, combining cutting-edge technology with time-honoured techniques. This commitment to innovation ensures that our products are not only beautiful but also functional and durable.

Every piece we create is a testament to our dedication to quality. From the selection of materials to the final finishing touches, we adhere to the highest standards, ensuring that our products will be cherished for years to come.

Sustainable Practices:

Forge 53° is committed to sustainability in all aspects of our business. We prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials and processes, and we continually seek ways to reduce waste and energy consumption in our production methods.

By creating products that are built to last, we reduce the need for frequent replacements, contributing to a more sustainable future. Our focus on quality over quantity is a key aspect of our legacy-building efforts.

Passing on the Legacy:

We are not just building products; we are building a legacy. Forge 53° is committed to passing on our knowledge, skills, and values to the next generation. Whether it’s through mentoring young talent, sharing our expertise with the community, or setting an example through our work, we aim to inspire others to continue the tradition of quality and innovation that Forge 53° stands for.

Long-Lasting Impact:

The legacy of Forge 53° is not just in the products we create but in the relationships we build and the positive impact we have on our community and industry. We aim to leave a mark that lasts far beyond the lifespan of any single project, contributing to the cultural and economic fabric of Edmonton and beyond.