Malcolm.
Port Townsend is full of hidden and humble gems. Tucked away in plain sight is the courtyard of Wallyworks, Jefferson Land Trust, North Olympic Salmon Coalition, Jefferson County Farmer’s Market, Jefferson Associated Council, Puffin Shoe Repair, and the restaurant Finistère. And now our fledgling New Story Studio joins the courtyard in our very own tiny office. Upon seeing this beautiful collection of businesses, nonprofits, and gardens one finally understands how the term “business park” came to be. This was what they meant all along, not that strange lawn between two enormous office buildings!
This blending of business and Uptown Port Townsend character arises from property owner Malcolm Dorn, our first feature profile. The woven nature of these enterprises is the tangible representation of Malcolm’s guiding principle inspired by the timeless Tao Te Ching. “Do your own work, and get out of the way.”
I chose Malcolm as the first profile because he has been central to the start of New Story Studio, and my confidence in moving home to launch this business. We stayed in contact while I was away studying energy policy, ever hoping that upon my return we would collaborate. That hope was soon realized when we collaborated on designing a fully off-grid house, and the climate battery systems for the Port Townsend Preservation Alliance housing development. Now to top it off, I have the benefit of occupying one of the courtyard tiny offices. What with the friends and food nearby, working remote has never been so good.
Malcolm launched Wallyworks, his construction company over twenty years ago, though his building experience really got its start with building demolition and recycling in California. This early appreciation for using what is already on hand and recycling precious materials has permeated his entire work ethic, and also informed his understanding of how to make a house a home. When beginning conversations with clients, he tends to start with a fairly basic but often overlooked question: “Imagine you’re coming home, walking up to the front door - what are you experiencing as you arrive? What do you feel as you open the door to your house? I ask this question so that the spaces we build take us where we want to go.”
I am inspired by Malcolm’s work ethic of getting involved, offering guidance, and as he says it, getting out of the way. This both encourages others to step up, but also enables creation outside of himself. Writing a ‘new story’ requires this letting go, relinquishing our culture of rigid control, and thereby allowing others to thrive. I am thrilled to work alongside Malcolm in this community centered courtyard. Stop by for a visit and see for yourself.