Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Koehler.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Scott. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always had a passion for creating and building things. That’s what brought me to Atlanta initially as a Georgia Tech engineering student in 2001. While in school, I was lucky enough to connect with a group of like-minded individuals who were not only creative in their own unique ways but also had a distinctive sense of style that I really identified with. Over the years, we collaborated on numerous projects, eventually leaning more and more heavily towards automotive design endeavors. In 2014, we formalized our efforts under the “Black Cloud” banner.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
We face many of the same challenges most young businesses face; limited capital, brand awareness, manufacturing issues, etc. We’re essentially still in the startup phase so our primary concern is typically trying to maximize time and effectiveness of resources. Additionally, our artistic desires occasionally clash with what makes the most business sense. It is an ongoing balancing act, but those struggles are the fire that will forge us into a stronger business over time.
Most people recommend never to go into business with friends, but in the case of Black Cloud Battalion that advice would have been completely misguided. We knew each other intimately for many years and that shared bond, knowledge of each other’s working styles and proclivities prevented us from being overwhelmed by the daily demands of the business. Each of my Black Cloud partners is a source of inspiration and support.
Black Cloud Battalion – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Black Cloud Battalion is primarily an automotive design agency. Similar to how you would consult an architect to design or redesign a house, we consult on automotive builds and restoration. Like many agencies, Black Cloud has a certain look and feel. Our work meshes classic and modern elements and is inspired by numerous automotive subcultures such as pro-touring and Bosozoku. Our member’s cars include everything from historic Japanese to classic American muscle. We like anything with “Vintage Class” which is why we host a monthly old-school car meet of the same name.
We pride ourselves on our ability to create unique and striking details that really differentiate the cars we work on from what else is on the road. Nothing is off limits and we use all sorts of atypical techniques including tattoo art, body modification and custom electronics to achieve our vision. Whether we are completely reinventing a car or just creating a one-off accessory, we want to make sure it’s something that will be noticed.
Black Cloud believes in forging strong relationships with clients. We’re particularly excited about our current build for Killer Mike, one half of the Run the Jewels hip-hop duo. He is an incredible individual who’s also passionate about cars so collaborating with him is truly an honor.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackcloudbattalion.com
- Phone: 404.500.7088
- Email: blackcloudbattalion@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/blackcloudbattalion
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/blackcloudbattalion
- Other: www.youtube.com/blackcloudbattalion
Image Credit:
Black Cloud Battalion/Burn Unit ATL
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