Sven is an international man of mystery. He may have been born in the new world, but he lives and loves with old world charm. This might be in part because he grew up with an East German family and didn’t speak English until he was in first grade. Perhaps this is why he’s often the quiet observer with a half smile on his face no matter what the situation. While we are only getting to know him, one thing we know for sure about Sven is that he’s definitely the soul and inspiration for the Zeno Supper Club. Without him the mission we have embarked on wouldn’t be.

They say that a group, company or organization is only as good as its leader. In the case of the Zeno Supper Club the feeling that has run through the group is positively electrifying and it starts with Sven and the unusual space he has created for us to hold the supper club in. The loft is a reflection of him in that it’s a combination of found objects, gifts from his bottomless pit of talented friends and things he has created with his sweat blood and unfortunately his fingers (he’s missing a good chunk of two of them). Everything in the loft, down to the wood and metal bathroom sliding door is beautifully crafted by a wild imagination and fueled by all of those around him.

When not hanging at Zeno Place Sven can be found hanging out at his clothing company’s (Comune) headquarters. And when avoiding work he’s usually cruising the PCH on his homemade Harley (he built it in high school) or riding with his board on his cruiser down to the pier for a surf check. If you are lucky enough to cross paths with this jolly giant in your lifetime you’ll be amazed as we all are with his generosity and communal spirit.