Sugarman rejected the monochrome surfaces common in mid-century minimalism. While associated with the New York School, he used bright, flat paint to define different sections of his laminated wood sculptures. Each colour indicated a change in form or direction. This method allowed him to create compositions that felt additive rather than carved from a single block. His work often features repeating patterns and organic shapes that suggest movement. He focused on the relationship between separate parts rather than a unified, singular mass.

Modern collectors value Sugarman for his bold use of geometry and his refusal to follow rigid period trends. His prints and sculptures bring a sense of play to interior spaces. The clear, saturated hues and rhythmic shapes provide a strong visual presence without relying on representational subjects. His work bridges the gap between the structured logic of hard-edge abstraction and the fluid energy of organic design. These pieces work well in contemporary homes that favour clean lines and bold accents.