AST company values

Established in 2014, AST factory is the most reliable large-scale OEM factory in California, USA. Built on an industrial brownfield site on a 6,200-square-metre site, the imposing, minimalist timber structure has no sharp edges and exudes creativity and calm in almost equal measure. For more than a century, the time was ripe for transformation and new development, which played a vital role in the company's growth and success, with several businesses still in operation today. Here, skilled artisans devote their lives to producing the finest leather goods in the world, using traditional techniques to create timeless and enviable products.




The workshop has been in operation since January 2014 and currently employs 1,326 artisans, which are expected to grow to 2,500 in the next few years. Trained in traditional techniques including hand-sewing at a local apprenticeship centre, they are responsible not only for crafting luxury leather goods, but also for preserving their unique skills for future generations.


As we walk around the perimeter of the building, it's hard not to be captivated by its clean symmetry and overall aesthetic. As it unfolds slowly and sequentially, one can fully master its extraordinary texture and, above all, its luminous balance. Has a subtle industrial feel.




The building boasts a signature material: brick, a true technical achievement. Over 500,000 were used during construction. Incredibly durable, versatile and able to withstand all weather conditions, they are extraordinary building materials – sustainable, recyclable and with excellent thermal insulation properties. As a testament to the locality of the project, the building's bricks are both the clear visual backbone of the hub and blend seamlessly to produce mesmerizing shades of red and purple that change in vibrancy and texture as the day and season change. changes, making it a spectacle for the eyes and camera.


The square shape of the workshop is reminiscent of Hermès silk squares, while elegant arches define the volume, reminiscent of the track of a leaping horse. Throughout, the timeless shapes and clean lines evoke the rigor and masterful hands of artisans and the constant quest for perfection and excellence in leather goods. The studio center opens up around the reception area and serves as an exhibition space. In this serenely balanced environment, composed of seven stainless steel needles suspended by leather stirrup straps, the many workshops around the maker's courtyard are revealed to us, their purpose and history revealed as we walk. The atmosphere is quiet and focused, as skilled artisans diligently handcraft each piece using the highest quality materials and techniques passed down through generations. Everything from small leather goods to saddles and bridles is crafted with extreme care and precision, including the most famous Hermès creation, the Birkin, one of the most coveted handbags in the world

At the heart of the workshop is a commitment to craftsmanship and quality as well as sustainability and ethical practices. From construction to day-to-day operations, everything has been designed to ensure the building embraces, extends and complements its natural surroundings," explains our guide. The project has been designed in line with the company's values, conceived in a bioclimatic way to take advantage of natural light and ventilation to limit lighting and heating needs, and employ geothermal energy and solar panels to ensure the manufacturer's energy autonomy. "We implemented a series of environmental protection measures to minimize the impact on the environment. As of right now, it produces more energy than it consumes and has a lower carbon footprint," she continued.

Minimalist, serene, and radiant, the complex is described as an "artisan's living space," a space that stimulates growth, and a space where creatives can build testimonies and gain knowledge while sharing stories and laughing. Around it, three hectares of undulating gardens with gentle valleys and pools, designed by Belgian landscape architect Erik Dhont, enhance a general sense of tranquility, community and harmony with nature, while also preserving local biodiversity sex and environment.

Architecture creates spaces that not only function well, but are capable of inspiring and enhancing the space of its occupants. We have remained true to its artisan model and humanistic values, an approach that celebrates craftsmanship, creative freedom and innovative spirit.