Brace: A Solid Wood Story from Davis Furniture

Davis Furniture, a prominent contract manufacturer known for its expertise in workplace solutions, has collaborated with German design duo jehs+laub to introduce innovative updates to their popular Sachet Chair collection. Originally launched in 2017, the Sachet Chair has been widely recognized for its versatility and aesthetic appeal among designers. The latest expansion to the collection includes an armless chair version and a coordinating barstool, both designed to extend the Sachet's application into broader hospitality and corporate environments. The development of these new Sachet forms involved extensive research conducted by jehs+laub in conjunction with Davis Furniture. The goal was to ensure that the new additions maintain the original Sachet Chair's core attributes of modern detailing, engineered comfort, and sleek design. The barstool, in particular, addresses the need for comfortable and ergonomically sound seating options in bar settings, a space where comfort is often overlooked despite prolonged use. By integrating the design principles of the classic Sachet, the barstool offers a sophisticated and comfortable solution for counter and bar height applications. The Sachet Collection's distinctive features include angular forms and finely tailored details. These elements allow for significant customization through a diverse array of upholstery and base options, enabling the chairs and barstools to seamlessly integrate into various settings, from casual open-plan offices to upscale fine dining establishments. A key technological advancement in the collection is an innovative seat suspension system. This system is crucial for delivering optimal comfort and facilitating flawless upholstery details, such as the precise welting that outlines each piece. Furthermore, a classic stitch detail centered on the backrest adds a touch of bespoke craftsmanship and enhances the visual appeal of the tailored upholstery. Markus Jehs and Jürgen Laub, the designers behind jehs+laub, emphasize the Sachet's 'stunning simplicity with a modern edge,' noting its ability to blend effortlessly into any space. They highlight that the new armless and barstool additions further enhance the collection's versatility and flexibility. While the new offerings introduce a low-back armless chair, the original Sachet Arm Chair remains available in low, mid, and high-back configurations, providing a comprehensive range of choices for designers. The updated Sachet Collection serves as a testament to how a strong foundational design can be evolved and adapted to meet new demands and broaden its application, empowering designers with greater aesthetic diversity for both workplace and hospitality projects. Davis Furniture's ongoing commitment to innovation, both in developing new concepts and refining existing ones, encourages designers to continually explore creative possibilities and consider each piece of furniture as an opportunity to elevate interior spaces. #DavisFurniture #SachetCollection #jehsnLaub #ChairDesign #BarstoolDesign #HospitalityDesign #WorkplaceSolutions #FurnitureInnovation #InteriorDesign

This article outlines the extensive range of timber products offered by Wickes, catering to various home renovation and garden landscaping projects. It emphasizes Wickes' reputation for supplying high-quality timber, including softwood, sawn kiln-dried, sawn treated, and studwork timber, all designed to provide flexibility and strength for a lasting finish, whether used indoors or outdoors. The article categorizes the timber products into several key areas, making it easier for customers to find specific materials for their needs. The range includes various timber supplies such as wall panels, all-purpose timber, trade timber, and planed square edge (PSE) timber, which are essential for structural and finishing work. Mouldings are also highlighted, offering decorative options for interior spaces. For outdoor projects, the article features garden and outdoor fencing, garden and railway sleepers, and timber decking boards, providing materials for constructing fences, raised beds, and outdoor living areas. Additionally, specialized timber products like wooden floorboards, skirting boards, shiplap cladding, timber scaffold boards, and timber roof battens are available for specific construction and renovation tasks. Cladding options are detailed, including exterior timber cladding and interior timber wall cladding, catering to both external weather protection and internal aesthetic enhancements. The article also covers various timber-related accessories and fixings, such as window sills and boards, staircase parts, joist and truss hangers, brackets and straps, and different types of timber fixings like multipurpose screws, exterior timber screws, and joinery nails. These supplementary products ensure that customers have all the necessary components for secure and effective timber installations. The goal is to assist customers in selecting the appropriate timber and associated materials for building furniture, erecting sheds, or undertaking comprehensive home renovations, ensuring their visions are brought to life with durable and high-quality supplies. #TimberSupplies #BuildingMaterials #HomeRenovation #GardenLandscaping #Woodworking #DIYProjects #ConstructionTimber

This article highlights the work of David Hatch, owner of Fine Line Classics in Ephraim, a custom furniture builder who focuses on creating pieces that are both artful and functional. Hatch addresses the common frustration of finding furniture that perfectly suits a space or individual needs, offering custom-built solutions that become modern heirlooms. His philosophy emphasizes attention to detail, including wood grain, color, and continuity, with the promise: “If you can imagine it, I can build it.” Hatch's journey into woodworking began in 1979 in Washington State, where he started by building basic furniture for personal use and later showcased his creations at art fairs. Upon returning to Door County, he established Fine Line Classics. His experience working with sailboat builder Dan Shea and at Palmer Johnson’s in Sturgeon Bay significantly influenced his approach to furniture design. He learned about shape and form, and recognized the shared meticulousness required in both large-scale construction projects like sailboats and detailed furniture pieces. This background instilled in him a high level of craftsmanship and appreciation for longevity in design. Custom-made furniture, as Hatch explains, ensures that clients receive exactly what they need, whether it's designed to fit a specific space or fulfill a particular function. Unlike mass-produced furniture, his pieces are built to last and retain their purpose over time. Clients often approach him with the desire to "treat themselves" after major life changes, such as children leaving home. Hatch finds immense satisfaction in guiding customers through the design process, which frequently involves exploring various wood colors and grains, sparking excitement and a deeper connection to their future furniture. Hatch utilizes a diverse range of specialized woods beyond local varieties, importing materials like wenge, bubinga, and myrtlewood. He enjoys educating customers about these options, involving them actively in the creation process. The article recounts several personal projects, including a family who commissioned six tables from a beloved walnut tree from their childhood home, and an arborist couple for whom Hatch created a unique bed frame resembling woven branches using wood they collected. These examples underscore his ability to transform personal stories and unique materials into meaningful and functional art. Hatch's artistic inspirations draw from Scandinavian and Danish designs, with a recent lean towards a more industrial style, influenced by his son, Nathan, who is also a sculpture artist and furniture builder. He has also collaborated with Jeanne and David Aurelius of Clay Bay Pottery, incorporating their custom ceramic tiles into his furniture. Approximately 90 percent of Hatch's work consists of commissioned pieces, allowing him to complete about eight to nine custom items annually. Despite the deep involvement in each project, Hatch finds satisfaction in letting go of his creations, understanding that their true purpose unfolds as they become cherished pieces in someone's home for years to come. He believes that the idea for each piece inherently belongs to the client, and his contentment comes from the knowledge that his work will have a lasting presence. #FurnitureDesign #CustomWoodworking #DavidHatch #FineLineClassics #Craftsmanship #HomeDecor #ArtfulFurniture #WoodArt #DoorCountyArtisan

Rosewood Home & Condo, a North Vancouver furniture store, is holding a closing sale ahead of its permanent closure on August 10th. The closure is due to the owner's retirement, offering customers a final opportunity to purchase handcrafted, luxury solid hardwood furniture at discounted prices. The store is known for its commitment to quality and customization, providing unique pieces for various home aesthetics. The closing sale features significant discounts across its inventory. Among the popular items are bedroom furniture pieces, including solid wood beds available with customizable bases, wood finishes, and headboards. These beds are priced competitively with lower-quality alternatives, despite being made from premium materials. Additionally, the sale includes dressers and nightstands, such as the Natal Bedside Table, which has seen a price reduction of almost 50%. Rosewood Home & Condo distinguished itself through its extensive customization options. Many items, including dining tables, can be tailored to individual preferences, allowing customers to choose from various leg styles, sizes, wood finishes, and edge styles. For those with limited space, the Vistaar Extension Table is highlighted as a practical solution for condo living, featuring a hidden extension. All furniture at Rosewood, including the Vistaar table, is crafted from high-quality materials like solid hardwood and hand-welded steel, ensuring durability. The store's closing marks the end of its long-standing commitment to providing beautiful, handcrafted solid wood furniture. Customers are encouraged to visit the store or explore the deals online before the August 10th deadline, as popular items are selling quickly. The sale takes place at 733 Marine Drive, North Vancouver, and online at exoticrosewood.com. #HomeFurnishings #FurnitureSale #SolidWoodFurniture #NorthVancouver #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor #BedroomFurniture #DiningTables #ClosingSale

The Curtain table, a collaborative creation by Berlin-based design studio Läufer & Keichel and German furniture manufacturer Zeitraum, showcases an innovative design characterized by its undulating legs. These distinctive legs are meticulously carved from solid wood, drawing inspiration from the flowing waves of curtain drapes, providing a unique aesthetic foundation for the table. The design aims to capture a fleeting moment in time, presenting a static object with the illusion of organic, flowing movement, akin to a sculpture that plays with perception. This conceptual approach emphasizes the symbolism of the wave, allowing the intrinsic material qualities of the solid wood to recede into the background, thereby enhancing the table's artistic impression. Crafted by Zeitraum, a brand renowned for its expertise in wooden furniture, the Curtain table is available in various configurations to suit diverse interior needs and aesthetic preferences. Customers can select between a rectangular or a semicircular tabletop, offering versatility in placement and function within a space. The material options for the tabletop and legs include high-quality ash, walnut, or oak finishes, providing a range of natural tones and wood grains to complement different design schemes. Furthermore, the table can be customized to lengths of up to four meters, with the wood grain maintained continuously across the surface, a testament to Zeitraum's craftsmanship and attention to detail. This continuous grain highlights the natural beauty and integrity of the solid wood, contributing to the table's harmonious and self-restrained composition. The designers, Läufer & Keichel, articulated their vision for the Curtain table, describing it as a piece that toys with human perception, where the symbolic movement of the wave becomes more prominent than the physical wood itself. They emphasized the harmonic symbiosis between the table's form and its material, suggesting that this unexpected combination allows the entire piece to be perceived as a cohesive and understated composition. The rhythmic interplay created by the 'curtains' (the undulating legs) is intended to evoke an atmosphere of floating serenity and inner calm, transforming the table from a mere functional item into a sculptural element that contributes significantly to the ambiance of its environment. The aesthetic qualities and thoughtful design make the Curtain table a notable piece within contemporary furniture design, demonstrating a blend of artistic expression and functional elegance. #FurnitureDesign #WoodenFurniture #TableDesign #InteriorDecor #ContemporaryDesign #GermanDesign #SolidWood #SculpturalFurniture

The provided content offers a comprehensive overview of various wood treatment products designed for both interior and exterior applications. It highlights how these treatments can be utilized for furniture upcycling, garden protection, and general home refreshment. The selection includes essential categories such as wood preservatives, shed and fence paint, decking paint, varnishes, and wood stains. For interior projects, the article details options like undercoat and primer paints, furniture paint, cupboard paint, and specific interior wood paints. These products cater to diverse needs, from preparing surfaces for a new finish to adding a decorative touch or enhancing durability. The range of interior wood treatments ensures that homeowners can find suitable solutions for different types of wooden furniture and fixtures within their living spaces. Conversely, exterior wood treatments are showcased to protect and beautify outdoor wooden structures. Products like wood preservatives and shed and fence paint are crucial for safeguarding against environmental elements, extending the lifespan of garden sheds, fences, and other outdoor timber. Decking paint and garden furniture paint and stain provide specialized solutions for maintaining and revitalizing wooden decks and outdoor furniture, offering both protection and aesthetic appeal. The article also mentions specialized products such as wood dye, which allows for altering the color of wood while preserving its natural grain. To assist customers in making informed choices, exterior paint tester pots are available, enabling users to sample colors and finishes before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, a wide array of decorating and painting supplies is listed, ensuring that all necessary tools and accessories are accessible for any wood treatment project. The content is organized to guide users through different product types, emphasizing their specific applications and benefits. It implicitly suggests that proper wood treatment is vital for both the longevity and appearance of wooden items, whether indoors or outdoors. The variety of products available indicates a focus on providing solutions for various wood types and desired outcomes, from basic preservation to decorative enhancements. This structured approach helps users easily navigate the extensive product offerings to meet their specific project requirements. #WoodTreatments #InteriorWoodPaint #ExteriorWoodCare #FurnitureUpcycling #GardenMaintenance #DeckingPaint #WoodStain #Varnishes #HomeImprovement

Dennis Zongker, a professional woodworker and owner of Zongkers Custom Woods in Omaha, Nebraska, has created an Art Deco style jewelry cabinet that exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship in veneering, turning, marquetry, and furniture design. The cabinet, which measures 36-1/2 inches wide, 26-1/2 inches deep, and 69 inches tall, is a tribute to the elegant furniture styles popular during the Art Deco movement of the 1920s. Zongker's previous work includes an Art Deco music box that won the grand prize in the 2023 Veneer Tech Craftsman’s Challenge, showcasing his consistent dedication to this style. The design draws inspiration from renowned designer Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann and the broader Art Deco movement, which spanned from 1919 to 1939 and significantly influenced art and culture across Europe and the United States. The jewelry cabinet is constructed using four distinct species of hardwood and veneers: American holly, Macassar ebony, Gaboon ebony, and bubinga burl, with cherry hardwood serving as the substrate. This piece features a single outside drawer, 24 internal drawers, and a concealed compartment, all meticulously integrated into the overall design. One of the most notable and challenging aspects of the cabinet's construction was the creation of its delicate tapered legs, which are crowned with elliptical finials. Zongker spent several weeks developing a method to combine diamond shapes with elliptical rings for these finials. He utilized solid Gaboon ebony for the larger segmented components and American holly for the thinner rings. Each finial incorporates eight elliptical rings, with four facing right and four facing left, all precisely cut at 30-degree angles. The process of segmenting and gluing these pieces, particularly the smaller rings, required significant precision to ensure alignment, while turning them on the lathe was described as the more enjoyable part of the process. For the longer segmented legs, Zongker faced the challenge of working with Gaboon ebony, a costly material. He created a jig for his table saw to cut 22-1/2-degree angles for the 32 isosceles triangle pieces needed. American holly, cut to 1/16-inch thickness, formed the 32 rings for the legs. The assembly involved using large rubber bands and small bar clamps to secure the glued holly and ebony pieces. Following this, a piece of holly was attached for the foot of each leg using a mortise and tenon joint. In the construction of the main carcase, particular attention was given to the alignment of the Macassar ebony veneer. Zongker acquired a large flitch of veneer to ensure that all grain patterns matched seamlessly, emphasizing the importance of matching grain edge-to-edge and along the length. The lower carcase features a large radius cove, crafted from solid cherry hardwood, chosen for its smooth grain and small pores that prevent telegraphing through the face veneer. This cove was created using a table saw technique involving repeated shallow cuts. The cabinet's door is adorned with a marquetry motif featuring simplified roses and butterflies, executed in a minimalist style to harmonize with the Art Deco aesthetic. This marquetry employs only three veneers: Gaboon ebony and American holly for the butterflies and roses, set against a bubinga burl background. Inside the cabinet, a simplified design is present, with Gaboon ebony inlays on an American holly background. Both the back of the door and the face of the hidden internal door feature diamond-shaped inlays, mirroring those on the cabinet's exterior. These inlays were precisely routed into dadoes to match the veneer thickness, cut with a specialized jig, and then fitted using a straight chisel before being glued and pressed. The external lower drawer is crafted from solid Macassar ebony with hand-cut dovetails, while its dividers are made of ebony with lap joints, resting on a solid American holly bottom. The 24 interior drawers are made from soft heavy curly maple and feature lap corner joints, secured with custom-made ebony dowels. These dowels, created using a dowel maker tool, are 3/16-inch wide and 3/4-inch long, specifically designed to complement the Art Deco style of the cabinet. #ArtDeco #JewelryCabinet #Veneering #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #Marquetry #CustomFurniture #WoodCraftsmanship #FineWoodworking

This article highlights eight unique wooden furniture pieces recently featured on Dezeen Showroom, showcasing the enduring appeal and versatility of timber in contemporary design. For millennia, wood has been a fundamental material for furniture due to its availability, workability, durability, and traditional ease of disposal. While the rise of cheaper, lighter flat-pack furniture made from particle board and veneer temporarily diminished solid wood's popularity, concerns about sustainability in manufacturing and disposal, coupled with a desire for long-lasting items passed down through generations, have led to a resurgence of interest in solid wood furniture. The inherent beauty of wood grain also contributes to the timelessness of these pieces. Featured items include the Locus armchair by Mozea, which boasts an unusual silhouette with exaggerated, diagonally-posed rear legs, vertical front legs, and a sweeping backrest, all dynamically carved from wood. The Taso trolley, designed by Cecilie Manz for Nikari, emphasizes multifunctionality with its one- or two-tier oak or ash body and a cross-over handle for easy movement. The Miko (C) armchair by Tsuguji Sasaki for Bendi Bangkok celebrates the natural grain of oak, ash, or beech timber and advanced woodworking techniques through its steam-bent backrest and arms. Japanese brand Area's Slab table features a single live-edge timber slab supported by various leg designs, highlighting the unique aesthetics of woods like black walnut, monkeypod, Japanese horse chestnut, and Japanese zelkova. The Curve chair by SmithMatthias for Allermuir is characterized by its sweeping backrest and sculptural aesthetic, supported by slightly oversized legs crafted from solid oak. The Nami table series by E-ggs for Miniforms is notable for its crimped bases made from solid steam-bent wood, offered in natural finishes like flamed oak, canaletto walnut, or black ash, and available in various sizes and colors. Lastly, the Wide Guy door pull by YSG for Bankston Architectural creates a bold visual impact with alternating stripes of colored solid timber in three colorways: Light Band, Dark Band, and Colour Band. Each of these pieces demonstrates a commitment to quality craftsmanship, sustainable material choices, and innovative design that respects the natural properties of wood. The article serves as a curated selection for individuals interested in durable, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally conscious furniture options. #WoodenFurniture #FurnitureDesign #SustainableMaterials #TimberCraftsmanship #InteriorDesign #Chairs #Tables #HomeDecor #DezeenShowroom

This article highlights 12 furniture designs and interior products crafted from wood, all of which have been featured on Dezeen Showroom. The collection demonstrates the enduring versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal of timber, a material that has been utilized in furniture making for thousands of years. Wood is also recognized as a sustainable choice due to its renewable nature and low embodied carbon footprint. The featured designs encompass a wide array of wood types, including Douglas fir, cherry, oak, walnut, beech, maple, and acacia. Each species contributes a unique tone and grain pattern, allowing for diverse aesthetic outcomes, whether left in its natural state or treated with paints and varnishes. The showcased products range from seating with organic shapes to lighting fixtures, illustrating the material's adaptability across different product categories. Among the featured items is the 4PM chaise longue by Massproductions, designed to offer comfort without upholstery and available in laminated Douglas fir or cherry wood, with a self-build option inspired by Enzo Mari. Yamagiwa's rereleased Taliesin lamps, originally by Frank Lloyd Wright, utilize oak, cherry, or walnut to create a distinctive lighting effect through rotating wooden boxes. Appareil Atelier's Elsie chair collection showcases gentle, rounded forms in timber, featuring a semi-circular seat and a curved backrest. The Spectrum Workstation Round ST160, a collaboration between Geckeler Michels and Karimoku, is a versatile table with a round top and splayed legs, available in natural or black wood. Ben McCarthy's Hollywood seating collection for Gohome offers stackable chairs and bar stools in oak, with a simple silhouette reminiscent of traditional director's chairs. Blu Dot's Hoard Storage Tables are characterized by biomorphic shapes and hollow interiors, made from black-finished or natural acacia wood. Koyori's minimalist Shaku Chair, designed by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, is composed of six individual components from black-stained beech wood. Konstantin Grcic's Bench collection for Plank includes a wooden bench and table, designed for easy assembly and disassembly. Neri&Hu;'s 98.6°F outdoor collection for De La Espada features various outdoor furniture pieces made from Croatian white oak, chosen for its resistance to rot. Patrick Norguet's Sova Lounge chair for Zanat boasts a solid wood frame available in maple, walnut, or oak, sourced from sustainably managed forests. Studio Lloyd's Sayari outdoor furniture collection, including a daybed and side table, uses eucalyptus globulus hardwood and features organic shapes. Lastly, Harri Korhonen's Naku Stack chair for Inno is a minimalist, stackable design in birch, ash, or oak, suitable for public spaces. These examples collectively highlight wood's continued relevance and innovative applications in contemporary furniture and product design. #WoodDesign #FurnitureDesign #InteriorProducts #SustainableMaterials #DezeenShowroom #LightingDesign #Seating #Tables #TimberCraft

House Beautiful has launched a new dining room collection exclusively at DFS, featuring a variety of contemporary wooden dining tables, benches, chairs, and occasional furniture designed to suit both large and small dining spaces. The collection is divided into four distinct ranges: Cosma, Luto, Filip, and Fenchurch, each offering unique styles and functionalities. The Cosma collection is available in a modern stained black or a classic oak veneer. Its dining table features sturdy ribbed legs and an oval top, complemented by slim dining chairs with woven seats and curved backs. This range also extends to include a stained black sideboard, TV unit, bookcase, and desk, all accented with brushed brass details. Top picks from the Cosma collection include the Cosma Desk for £449, the Cosma Dining Chair for £229, and the Cosma Bookcase for £599, all available at dfs.co.uk. The Luto collection draws inspiration from mid-century dining sets, crafted from natural wood and veneer in either a white oak or walnut finish. The dining table in this range is subtly curved and extendable, capable of seating up to eight people. To save space, the collection offers dining benches with upholstered seat pads, available in elegant faux leather or trendy bouclé fabrics. For those who appreciate Scandinavian design, the Filip collection presents a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication. Made from solid oak, this range includes spindle-backed dining chairs and benches, which also come with upholstered bouclé seat pads. Complementary pieces in the Filip collection include a matching TV unit, coffee table, and sideboard. Notable items from the Filip range are the Filip Spindle Chair priced at £179, the Filip Sideboard at £599, and the Filip Side Table at £129, all accessible through dfs.co.uk. Finally, the Fenchurch collection caters to a preference for modern industrial design. Its dining table is characterized by black steel legs and a distinctive parquet-style tabletop, with multiple extension leaves to accommodate additional guests, making it ideal for avid hosts. The Fenchurch range also features elegant rosewood chairs with a matching black-painted finish and a splayed silhouette. All collections aim to provide stylish and functional solutions for various dining room aesthetics and practical needs. #DiningRoomFurniture #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #DFSCollection #HouseBeautiful #WoodenFurniture #ScandinavianDesign #IndustrialDesign

Harkavy Furniture, a company based in Portland, Oregon, was founded by brothers Dylan and Wesley Harkavy. The brand specializes in crafting modern furniture pieces that combine steel and wood in innovative and simple designs. Each item produced by Harkavy Furniture is handmade to order, emphasizing a commitment to bespoke quality and meticulous craftsmanship. The collection showcases a variety of tables, each designed with a distinct aesthetic and functional approach. One featured piece is the Cortado Coffee Table, which integrates walnut wood with powder-coated steel. Its design is characterized by a diagonally placed wooden element, creating the visual effect of the table being sliced in half. This particular table is depicted in several images, highlighting its unique construction and the interplay between the two primary materials. The use of walnut wood provides a natural warmth and texture, while the powder-coated steel contributes to a sleek, contemporary feel and structural integrity. Another significant offering is the Doppio Coffee Table, which presents a more streamlined design compared to the Cortado. This table features a powder-coated steel frame that supports both a cedar shelf and a cedar tabletop. The choice of cedar adds a distinct aromatic and visual quality to the piece, complementing the industrial aesthetic of the steel. The Doppio Coffee Table is illustrated with multiple views, demonstrating its simplicity, functionality, and the harmonious blend of materials. Completing the collection is the Ladder Back dining table. This piece features a walnut tabletop supported by a powder-coated steel base, further accented with walnut details. A notable design element of the Ladder Back table is its walnut-tipped feet, which are designed to resemble animal hooves, adding a touch of whimsy and organic form to an otherwise modern structure. The table's design underscores the brand's ability to infuse artistic details into functional furniture. Images of the Ladder Back table provide various perspectives, showcasing its elegant lines and the thoughtful integration of its components. Overall, Harkavy Furniture's approach centers on creating contemporary furniture that is both visually appealing and structurally sound, utilizing the contrasting yet complementary properties of wood and steel. The brothers' dedication to handmade production ensures that each piece meets high standards of quality and design, making their furniture suitable for modern living spaces. The showcased tables—Cortado, Doppio, and Ladder Back—exemplify the brand's signature style and its focus on clean, sophisticated designs. #HarkavyFurniture #ModernFurniture #WoodAndSteel #HandmadeFurniture #CoffeeTables #DiningTables #InteriorDesign #PortlandDesign #FurnitureDesign

Chris Yates, through his East Wood Trading Company, specializes in creating unique wood products for luxury interiors, including homes, yachts, and private jets. His work is characterized by an intricate understanding of wood and an artistic yet pragmatic approach. The company is renowned for its preservation of unique wood products, attracting a clientele seeking exceptional craftsmanship. Yates's workshop, described as a Harry Potter-esque apothecary, houses thousands of natural liquids, powders, and emulsified pigments he has developed to create custom wood finishes. He has spent nearly a decade perfecting these techniques, drawing inspiration from European artisans who have guarded such methods for centuries. Unlike conventional wood refinishing processes that often involve harsh chemicals, East Wood Trading focuses on sustainably sourced, meticulously hand-finished wood that tells a story and is free from harmful off-gassing. His expertise extends to personally selecting source materials, often taking architects, designers, and homeowners on trips to retrieve wood from old structures. Notable projects include using sunken cypress logs from the Industrial Revolution era and a 10,000-year-old bog oak. Yates’s commitment to quality ensures that each piece of wood is treated with the utmost care, designed to last for generations. Yates’s connection to wood art and craftsmanship traces back to his grandfather’s footsteps in Germany’s Black Forest. He explores nature for colors and materials, emphasizing the importance of the source and environment in achieving specific finishes. Born in Maryland, Yates grew up on a farm, splitting wood and driving tractors. His family's Nantucket roots are strong, with his uncle founding Yates Gas in 1973. Chris Yates, alongside Linda, later founded East Wood, initially focusing on reclaiming high-quality antique materials from old factory buildings and barns in states like Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. His global network and fascination with Old World techniques and sustainable practices have further shaped his approach. Yates traveled to Europe to study advanced finishing techniques, which he found lacking in the United States. His research delves into the molecular and cellular structure of trees, particularly oak, and how environmental stressors, like cold conditions, influence the wood’s defense mechanisms and tannin production, which are crucial for natural finishes. Despite the high demands of perfectionist clients, Yates adopts a Zen philosophy, embracing the wabi-sabi concept—finding beauty in imperfection. He acknowledges that every tree and board is unique, possessing natural scars and fractures that designers often wish to conceal. However, Yates believes these imperfections are integral to the wood’s history and character, reflecting a deeper aesthetic value where "the cracks are where the light shines in." #WoodArtistry #LuxuryInteriors #SustainableWood #HandcraftedFinishes #ChrisYates #EastWoodTrading #WabiSabi #NantucketCraftsmanship #ArchitecturalWoodwork

Greg Klassen, a Washington State-based furniture maker, specializes in crafting unique "River Tables" by hand-picking distinctive wood slabs, primarily big-leaf maple and walnut, from the Pacific Northwest and other regions. He carefully selects wood pieces that possess natural shapes, burls, and intricate grain patterns, with only one in 300 slabs meeting his stringent criteria for a River Table. The signature design features two live-edge wood slabs separated by a void, which is then filled with custom-cut glass to evoke the appearance of a river flowing through a canyon. This approach ensures that each table is unique and reflects the natural characteristics of the wood. Klassen's journey into woodworking began out of necessity and evolved into a passion. Growing up on a farm in California and later working in a door factory, he started making furniture for his home using recycled wood. Despite early struggles and initial failures in establishing his business, his work gained widespread recognition in 2014 after being featured by the design blog Colossal and subsequently going viral on social media. This sudden exposure led to a two-year waiting list for his tables, prompting him to streamline his order process to manage demand. The creation of a River Table involves a meticulous, multi-stage process. After selecting the ideal wood slabs, they undergo an extensive air-drying period, often lasting months, to achieve a precise moisture content suitable for the Pacific Northwest climate. The wood, which arrives in a rough and often twisted state, is then carefully flattened and resurfaced using specialized machinery like his imported Wood Wiz machine. Portable track saws are employed for shaping, and a self-vacuum system helps maintain cleanliness during cutting. Significant manual and machine sanding is required to refine the wood's surface, particularly where natural decay has left intricate designs. After the wood is prepared, Klassen designs the river and precisely cuts colored glass pieces to fit the unique contours of each table, a process he keeps confidential to ensure originality. The tables are supported by simple, often powdered metal, bases that provide structural stability without detracting from the wood's aesthetic. He intentionally avoids using stains, believing they mask the wood's natural colors and grains, instead applying multiple layers of a clear protective finish to enhance durability and allow for easy maintenance. The final stage involves meticulously crafting robust shipping crates to protect the fragile glass and wood during transport, a process he has perfected to prevent damage. Klassen expresses deep fulfillment in his work, viewing each completed piece as an inspiration for new designs. His commitment to sourcing unique materials and his detailed craftsmanship underscore his dedication to creating furniture that highlights the inherent beauty of natural wood, establishing him as a prominent figure in the custom furniture industry. #Woodworking #FurnitureDesign #GregKlassen #RiverTable #LiveEdgeWood #Craftsmanship #PacificNorthwest #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor

Belgian designer Casimir marks three decades in the design industry with a new collection of six wooden objects, with another six pieces slated for future release. These initial six items include two consoles, a cabinet rack, a mirror, a side table, and a low table, all crafted from solid oak and walnut, chosen for their ecological qualities. Each piece is a limited edition, signed, and numbered, reflecting Casimir's hands-on approach as a self-described furniture artist who designs and produces his work in his own studio. The designer emphasizes concept over styling or trends, aiming to rethink and question classical furniture through his oeuvre. He values the authenticity and sustainable nature of wood as a material. One notable piece, Cross4, is a customizable console designed to lean against a wall. It incorporates the symbol of a cross, which Casimir explains is a loaded symbol in Flemish culture, traditionally placed above doors to signify welcome and protection. This console is thus intended as a gesture of hospitality at an entrance. CabinetRack2, measuring 120 centimeters wide and 180 centimeters high, showcases an innovative approach to furniture construction. Casimir created a standard cabinet without doors, then sawed it into two equal parts. These parts were subsequently shifted at an angle and glued together, resulting in a rack that can also function as a room divider, demonstrating an "exercise in what you can do with a standard cabinet." Mirror3, another piece in the collection, intentionally restricts the user's view, contrasting with traditional mirrors that offer a full reflection. Casimir drew inspiration from architectural sun blinds, which are horizontal slats used to block sunlight. He reinterpreted this concept by orienting them vertically to limit the reflection to a single viewpoint within a space. The side table, Arch, is unique in the collection for being crafted from walnut wood rather than oak. Its oval-shaped tabletop is cut from a larger rectangular piece of wood, with the remaining material utilized to form the legs. These legs consist of two trusses that cross beneath the oval top, creating a small vault. Plank5, a low table standing 35 centimeters off the ground, features five oak wood planks stacked in a manner reminiscent of a fireplace or campfire, with the plank ends extending at various angles. The final piece of this initial release is Console3, a double-shelved unit supported by three rotatable tripods. Casimir's upcoming six designs to complete the 12-piece collection include three ladders and a cabinet, alongside an exploration of furniture legs, all continuing his work with wood. The designer's ambition for the entire collection is for the pieces to endure for over a century, aligning with the tradition of classical furniture making. He notes the importance of experimentation and intuition in his creative process, where the idea, material, form, and function are deeply interconnected. #FurnitureDesign #WoodenFurniture #OakFurniture #WalnutFurniture #SustainableMaterials #BelgianDesign #ArtFurniture #LimitedEdition

The luxury brand The Row, founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, has discreetly launched a curated vintage furniture line. This collection, found under a new 'Galerie' sub-page on The Row's website, expands on the brand's earlier foray into homeware. In early April, The Row introduced its first homeware collection during Milan Design Week, which included handwoven cashmere blankets and quilted bedding sets, presented in an intimate and minimalist style. The newly released vintage furniture line reflects The Row's signature aesthetic, characterized by understated luxury and meticulous attention to detail. This design philosophy was notably evident in the interiors of their flagship store in Paris, where furniture played a crucial role in shaping the twins' vision. Examples from the Paris store include two 1940 wooden Traineau chairs by Victor Courtray and a 1955 black Georges Jouve coffee table, alongside custom-built seating that subtly references Californian design, such as a 1930 coffee table by Michel Dufet. The online curated selection features a range of significant 20th-century pieces from renowned designers. Highlights include a Charlotte Perriand Cansado Table from 1958, a pair of armchairs by Guillerme et Chambron from 1960, a round wood and metal side table by Louis Sognot dating back to 1930, and a foldable chair by Pierre Dariel from 1934. These selections underscore The Row's commitment to timeless design and high-quality craftsmanship, extending their brand identity beyond fashion into the realm of home furnishings. The quiet launch of this collection is consistent with The Row's typically private and understated approach to their business, opting for a subtle online release rather than a high-profile announcement. This method allows the pieces to speak for themselves and resonates with an audience that appreciates refined aesthetics and exclusive offerings. The integration of vintage furniture into their existing homeware offerings suggests a natural evolution for the brand, reinforcing its holistic vision for a well-curated lifestyle. #TheRow #VintageFurniture #LuxuryDesign #Homeware #InteriorDesign #CharlottePerriand #LouisSognot #GuillermeEtChambron