Happening New York-based brand Area has named Nicholas Aburn as its new creative director, succeeding his predecessor, Piotrek Panszcyk, within days of his departure.

 
“Beckett Fogg, CEO and founder, announces the appointment of Nicholas Aburn as creative director at Area. He starts in March, and his first collection will be Spring/Summer 2026,” the company said in a statement.
 
Most reports had previously described Area as being jointly founded by Fogg and Panszcyk after their graduation from Parsons School of Design.

A hyper-directional brand featured prominently at Coachella, Area celebrated its 10th anniversary last year.
 
Originally from Maryland, Aburn studied at Central Saint Martins in London before beginning his career at Tom Ford. He later worked as senior womenswear designer at Alexander Wang in New York and most recently served as senior designer at Balenciaga Couture.
 
“Area is proud to welcome Nicholas Aburn as our new creative director. His vision for the brand’s evolution will amplify Area’s resonance and propel us into an exciting new era,” said Fogg in the official release. 

Aburn added: “New York has always inspired me with its mix of raw energy and glamour. Area truly embodies this spirit, and I am excited to bring the brand back to its roots.”