Off The Clock with Ken Haste
Welcome to Off The Clock, a series that highlights UO employees and takes a closer look at what they like to do in their free time. (Spoiler: we have a lot of very talented employees!) This week, we meet up with Kenneth Alfonso, aka Ken Haste, to learn more about his woodworking skils, life in Miami and how he got his start at UO.
Hi Ken! Introduce yourself and tell us what you do at UO.
My name is Kenneth Alfonso, also known as Ken Haste, and I'm a display artist for Urban Outfitters.
How long have you been working at UO?
I've been at Urban Outfitters for six years now. It all started in New York, where I was a display team lead. Then I became the assistant display artist. Then I got my own store, and then two and a half years ago I moved down here to Miami Beach.
What's it like in Miami? It seems like a magical place to live.
Living in Miami is pretty dope. Every time I clock out, I feel like I'm on vacation. Scenery's awesome, food... they have it all.
At UO, you work on a lot of woodworking projects. How did you get so skilled at that?
I feel like I got good at woodworking just because of the perfectionism in me, as well as my drive and my hustle to keep creating and keep going.
Tell us about one of your earliest projects.
One of my earliest projects was just creating furniture for the first one bedroom apartment I ever had.
Any tips for someone who's looking to get started in the craft?
If you're looking to get started, I honestly would say just invest in some tools, and then get on YouTube and start creating.
It seems like you like to get out and be active. Tell us about some of your outdoor hobbies!
I like to be active! One of my hobbies includes biking. I try to bike 10 to 20 miles every day, even before work. I skateboard from time to time, and whenever there's a cool storm and good waves, I go out and surf.
What are your plans for the rest of 2020?
For the rest of 2020, I hope to grow my brand more and raise more awareness. My brand is Haste Works (@haste_works), where me and my wife create custom built furniture/home decor. We also make skateboards!
To see more from Ken, follow him on Instagram @haste_works