The art of the craft: Dallas furniture makers break down the custom design process

Austin's design landscape, traditionally celebrated for its architectural prowess with influences from Texas Rangers architects and contemporary figures like Craig Dykers, James Dodson, and Michael Hsu, is now experiencing a flourishing furniture design scene. This resurgence is fueled by the city's innovative environment, attracting creatives, particularly those with backgrounds in architecture and traditional design, to explore smaller-scale, more intimate projects. This article delves into the practices of three distinct furniture design companies—Muhly, Yucca Stuff, and Maček Furniture—to offer a comprehensive understanding of Austin's dynamic furniture design community. Muhly, established in 2021 by lifelong friends Ann Edgerton and Megan Carney, exemplifies contemporary design with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. Their work, such as the Lindheimer Credenza, reinterprets classic pieces through modern lenses, showcasing natural wood grains and cross-sections. While primarily working with wood, Muhly also experiments with materials like steel for outdoor furniture, as seen in their powder-coated Lineage Bench and stainless steel Flecto Fire Pit. Their iterative design process, involving extensive hand drawings, has resulted in creations that have attracted significant public and professional interest, including collaborations with interior designers like Kelly Wearstler and commercial clients such as La Condesa restaurant. Yucca Stuff, founded by Daniel Morrison, embraces a Texas-centric sensibility, blending domestic hardwoods with unique materials like limestone. Morrison, an architect by training and a self-taught woodworker, explores the harmonious integration of contrasting materials. His design philosophy centers on finding the most aesthetically pleasing way for different materials to interact, evident in pieces like the Odessa Coffee Table and the Concho Table. These designs ingeniously resolve the interface between porous limestone and hardwood through innovative joinery. Yucca Stuff's success led to a collaboration with Design Within Reach in 2022 and features in DIOR's flagship New York store and across East Asia and the Middle East, highlighting the brand's global appeal and Morrison's continuous exploration of new materials, including Mexican lava stone. Maček Furniture, led by Mark Maček, boasts 28 years of experience, producing high-quality custom furniture. Maček, also initially from an architectural background, discovered a passion for the tangible nature of woodworking. His design ethos is rooted in functionality, which has evolved through years of custom work, yet he maintains a distinct level of craftsmanship. Collaborations with architects and designers, such as the Kathleen Desk created with Ann Tucker, demonstrate his ability to adapt his design language while retaining his signature style. Maček also dedicates time to academia, teaching wood design at The University of Texas School of Architecture (UTSOA), where he mentors young designers and imparts both the theoretical and practical skills of woodworking. A significant factor contributing to Austin's thriving furniture design scene is The Splinter Group, a large communal maker space in East Austin. This workshop accommodates 25 tenants and 40 artisans, serving as a hub for the region's leading furniture designers, including Muhly, Yucca Stuff, and Maček Furniture. The Splinter Group fosters an inspiring environment characterized by a free exchange of ideas and experiences. Mark Maček, as one of the wood shop’s three managers, emphasizes the critical importance of such affordable and collective spaces for woodworkers, metalworkers, and ceramicists. He highlights that craftsmanship is inherently communal, with designers relying on a local network of makers, suppliers, and enthusiasts to push the industry forward. #AustinDesign #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #CustomFurniture #MaterialInnovation #DesignCommunity #Craftsmanship #InteriorDesign #TexasDesign

Childress Furniture and Fabrics, a prominent Dallas-based family business, stands as a comprehensive resource for design needs, specializing in fabrics but also offering bespoke furniture and custom soft furnishings. The company's origin story dates back to 1958 when Barbara and Eugene Childress, en route from Chattanooga to California, settled in Dallas after their car broke down. They initially worked at Olive & Myers Manufacturing, a furniture company, before establishing their own upholstery business on Forest Avenue. Their entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic were evident early on, as they swiftly relocated and resumed operations on the same day an electrical fire forced them out of their Canton Street location. The business, initially focused on upholstery, saw significant expansion and evolution under the guidance of the Childress family's six children: Mike, Brian, Sherry, Debbie, Kenny, and Kristi. A pivotal moment occurred in 1989 when Mike, realizing a demand for customers to physically interact with larger fabric samples, proposed opening a dedicated fabric store. This led to the acquisition of a warehouse at 2512 Ferris Street. Despite initial trepidation about the financial commitment, the new store quickly garnered success, necessitating the expansion into the entire warehouse space and establishing a new entrance on Good Latimer. This expansion also allowed Childress to further develop its custom furniture building services. Recognizing that many clients were remodeling existing furniture, the family ventured into creating new pieces. They innovated by displaying sample furniture frames upholstered in white, enabling customers to visualize their custom designs and fostering trust. Over the years, Childress has navigated both triumphs and hardships, including the passing of Mike in 2017, but has consistently operated as a close-knit unit. Each family member has found their specific role within the company, with Kenny managing the Dallas store, Brian overseeing the workroom, Debbie running the Addison store, and Kristi handling bookkeeping. Barbara Childress, the matriarch, continues to maintain an oversight role. Today, Childress Furniture and Fabrics is known for its extensive selection of velvets, linens, silks, and leathers, as well as its custom capabilities in draperies, pillows, bedding, sofas, chairs, and headboards. The business emphasizes customer relationships, often transforming clients into long-term friends. Visitors to the Dallas store on Good Latimer might encounter Kenny's wife, Nancy, or long-time employee Kottun Cottongame, reinforcing the family-oriented atmosphere. The presence of family pets like Turbo and Kaizer further contributes to the welcoming and unique environment that has made Childress Furniture and Fabrics a beloved institution in the Dallas design community for decades. #ChildressFurniture #FamilyBusiness #DallasDesign #CustomUpholstery #FabricStore #InteriorDesignResources #FurnitureManufacturing #EntrepreneurialJourney #HomeDecor

The article explores various interior design styles and introduces several Dallas-Fort Worth (D-FW) designers who specialize in each. It emphasizes the importance of identifying one's personal style as the initial step in finding the right interior design professional, given the diverse talent available in North Texas. The article segments popular interior styles into Traditional, Eclectic, Modern, and Transitional, providing insights into each aesthetic and highlighting local experts. Traditional design is characterized by 18th and 19th-century influences from England, France, and Italy, often incorporating elements from Asia like chinoiserie. Key features include darker woods, ornate trim, and layered textiles. Contemporary interpretations of traditional design focus on comfort and inspiration, as seen in the work of Lisa Henderson of Lisa Henderson Interiors, who mixes styles and travel finds for a fresh approach. Emily Larkin of EJ Interiors prefers antique pieces with clean lines and incorporates botanical art and floral fabrics. Lindley Arthur of Lindley Arthur Interiors, who also owns a space at Antique Row, emphasizes personalized design through unique antique finds and avoids repetitive aesthetics, often using French and Italian antiques, hand-blocked textiles, and textured wallcoverings. Laura Lee Clark Falconer of Laura Lee Clark Interior Design combines classical architectural proportions with modern art or furnishings, sometimes adding Asian influences. Eclectic interior design is defined by layered interiors, vibrant colors, unexpected fabric combinations, and global influences. It is a challenging style to master due to its lack of a fixed formula, aiming to reflect a client's unique personality. Shauna Glenn of Shauna Glenn Design is a maximalist who champions bold color use, frequently mixing patterns and incorporating black-and-white accents. Javier Burkle of Burkle Creative blends old and new elements through layering techniques, resulting in cozy, masculine spaces that often feature windowpane checks, pinstripes, and significant personal mementos. Kim Armstrong of Kim Armstrong Interior Design integrates clients' personal collections and heirlooms, advocating for designs based on individual preferences rather than trends, and uses Lucite, vintage textiles, and vibrant patterns. Modern interior design prioritizes simplicity and functionality, with clean lines, natural materials, and open floor plans, encompassing midcentury modern and Scandinavian influences. Designers like Mil Bodron of Bodron/Fruit draw inspiration from design masters like Eames and Le Corbusier, focusing on scale, composition, and proportion while eschewing fleeting trends. Joshua Rice of Joshua Rice Design developed his style through exposure to sophisticated modern architecture, believing every item in a space should serve a functional, intriguing, or aesthetic purpose. Ginger Curtis of Urbanology Designs adopts a relaxed modern approach, blending organic, biophilic elements and juxtaposing vintage pieces with modern artwork to create dynamic, layered environments. Transitional interior design offers a balance between traditional and modern aesthetics, featuring clean lines, soft curves, warm colors, curated accessories, and architectural lighting. This style is adaptable and ever-evolving, often incorporating vintage or antique accents. Shannon McGough of Poppy McGough Design House, drawing from her hospitality design background, simplifies spaces using neutral palettes, natural materials like iron, wood, and stone, and incorporates distinctive lighting. Philip Vanderford of Studio Thomas James favors a restrained, contemporary approach, using bold colors and unique furniture silhouettes, with art serving as a narrative element. Christina Garcia Lysaught of Layered Dimensions Interior Design notes the evolving nature of transitional styles, combining modern warmth with tailored traditional elements to create streamlined, up-to-date looks. #InteriorDesign #DallasDesigners #HomeStyle #TraditionalDesign #EclecticDesign #ModernDesign #TransitionalDesign #NorthTexas

Casita, a Dallas-based furniture company, specializes in creating fully customizable furniture, with a notable lead time of approximately 10 weeks. The company's business model emerged from the personal needs of its founder, Alison Dale, a new mother who sought practical and safe furniture solutions for her growing family. Casita's daybeds, which can include trundles for sleepovers or storage drawers for smaller spaces, have become a top-selling item, even garnering interest and shipments to New York City and other locations outside of Dallas. The name 'Casita,' meaning 'little house,' reflects the company's roots in Texas and its commitment to a culture of passing down wisdom and trade within families. Initially, Dale did not anticipate the extensive reach her business would achieve, yet she held strong conviction in the creative potential of her clients. As a former interior designer, Dale observed that clients, empowered by online resources like the internet, Pinterest, and Instagram, often have a clear vision for their furniture needs, completing about 90 percent of the design process themselves. Casita aims to bridge the remaining 10 percent by providing custom furniture solutions without requiring clients to engage in a full-scale 360-degree design experience. After prioritizing her family life following the birth of her daughters, Dale refocused her professional endeavors on her favorite aspect of interior design: custom furniture creation. She made this service accessible to a broader audience, accommodating client preferences even for 'to the trade only' fabrics by facilitating their acquisition. Casita benefits from Dallas's rich pool of artisans, with all manufacturing processes occurring within a 45-minute radius of the metroplex. This localized production contributes to their efficient lead times, a significant factor in attracting both interior designers and retail clients. The company experienced substantial growth in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic prompted many individuals to invest in and improve their homes. As Casita continues to expand and Dale navigates the challenges of being a working mother and business owner, she views these experiences as valuable teaching moments for her daughters, demonstrating the satisfaction derived from pursuing one's passions. Casita represents a venture built on a simple idea with significant impact, rooted in the heart of Texas. #CustomFurniture #HomeDesign #DallasBusiness #FurnitureCustomization #InteriorDesign #MadeInTexas #Daybeds #ArtisanCraftsmanship

Rustbelt, a Cleveland-based custom furniture maker, has been creating modern heirloom wooden pieces for over 50 years, leaving its artistic mark in various high-profile locations across the nation, including concession stands at Cleveland sports venues, gondola cabs at Yellowstone Club in Montana, and Michelin-starred restaurants like Valle in California. Their work ranges from simple hexagonal benches to intricate reception tables engraved with hundreds of signatures, showcasing their versatile design capabilities. Originating as Interior Products Co. in 1970 and rebranding to Rustbelt Reclamation in 2013, the company, now known simply as Rustbelt since 2024, is led by President Megan Barker. A team of nine skilled woodworkers in the Goodrich-Kirtland Park and Asiatown neighborhoods craft custom furniture, with projects typically spanning 12-14 weeks from initial consultation to final delivery. A core principle of Rustbelt is the meticulous selection of materials, emphasizing the unique composition of each wood slab, including its species, graining, and finish. While largely recognized for its contributions to the hospitality industry, Rustbelt consistently pushes design boundaries, embracing challenges that other manufacturers might avoid. As a woman-owned business in manufacturing, the company prides itself on innovative thinking and fostering a collaborative environment where every team member's voice is valued. This approach allows them to complete an average of 100 custom projects annually, all while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability. Rustbelt's "Tree to Table" initiative is central to its sustainable practices. This program involves salvaging fallen timber, rather than using freshly cut wood, and then meticulously drying, milling, and refurbishing it to ensure longevity against wear and tear. All wood is sourced within a 200-mile radius of their East 36th Street workshop, highlighting their dedication to local resources and minimizing environmental impact. Barker stresses that superior craftsmanship is intrinsically linked to superior materials, a philosophy that underpins their product quality. Despite their national reach, collaborating with celebrity homes and top designers, Rustbelt maintains a strong connection to its Cleveland roots, valuing local clients who can visit the workshop and engage directly with the material selection process. With current design trends leaning towards "wood-infused spaces" and "artisanal details," Rustbelt finds itself perfectly positioned. The company aims to make the beauty of custom woodwork accessible to a broader clientele, moving beyond the perception of it as an exclusive luxury. In 2024, following the simplification of its name, Rustbelt launched a new website featuring "The Grove," a blog managed by project manager Kim Mager and marketing coordinator Eli Edwards. This platform offers insights into custom furniture making. Barker and Mager characterize Rustbelt's furniture as "quiet luxury," intending it for clients from all backgrounds. They emphasize that successful design involves not just skill, but also a crucial ability to listen and adapt to client needs. Whether it's an epoxy table inspired by a river, engraved tiles featuring native Wyoming plants, or a multi-compartment bar cart, each piece is designed to be timeless, precisely reflecting the client's vision. Each creation carries the legacy of Rustbelt's 55-year history in Cleveland, embodying the concept of "modern heirlooms." #CustomFurniture #Woodworking #ClevelandDesign #SustainableDesign #HeirloomFurniture #InteriorDesign #ManufacturingInnovation #ArtisanalCraftsmanship #LocalBusiness

The article profiles the interior design firm Breckinridge Taylor, founded by Charles Taylor and Breck Woolsey, focusing on their return to Dallas from California and their impact on the local design scene. Both designers, originally from Texas, met in San Diego and decided to establish their business in Dallas, citing the city's abundance of opportunities for small businesses. They experienced initial delays in launching due to their ongoing individual projects but eventually succeeded in forming their company. Breckinridge Taylor is noted for its collaborative style, which blends vintage aesthetics with an eclectic mix of traditional, midcentury, and contemporary elements. The designers incorporate unexpected shapes and finishes into their work. Taylor describes his style as more contemporary, often mixing it with midcentury modern pieces, while Woolsey combines traditional and midcentury modern with Hollywood Regency influences. They aim to introduce current design trends to Dallas, often drawing from what is popular on the coasts or their personal tastes. Beyond their interior design services for residential and commercial spaces, such as the Osgood O’Neil salons, Breckinridge Taylor has ventured into furniture design. They collaborated with Mecox to create a line of 70 wood furniture pieces available in various finishes and also designed a rug collection sold at Interior Resources. Additionally, they have created special edition Lucite furniture for Plexicraft and will soon feature their updated vintage pieces at Again & Again. They have also launched a separate furniture line called Whilom Inc., which will soon be available at Mecox. On the commercial front, the duo has completed the interior design for John Tesar’s Spoon restaurant in Preston Center. They credit their success to the support and endorsement of bloggers, tastemakers, and influencers. Both designers expressed admiration for the architecture and innovative design of the Perot Nature and Science Museum, which they view as an example of the originality they hope to see more of in Dallas. The Design District in Dallas is highlighted as their favorite area, recognized for its comprehensive resources for designers and its potential for future growth with new restaurants, living spaces, and hotels. The article also mentions their participation in charitable events, including a Habitat for Humanity competition and a Dwell With Dignity event, demonstrating their engagement with the local community. #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DallasDesign #BreckinridgeTaylor #FurnitureDesign #CommercialDesign #VintageModern #EclecticStyle #TexasDesigners

The year 2020 has brought a heightened awareness to the significance of living spaces, with many individuals investing in renovations, redesigns, and refreshes to adapt to new routines and increased time spent at home. This shift has propelled the demand for custom, made-to-order furniture and decor, moving beyond the traditional offerings of large retailers. Smaller, direct-to-consumer, and online-only brands are now at the forefront, making customized pieces more accessible and affordable to both design professionals and everyday consumers. Interior designer Rydhima Brar notes that internet-savvy clients are conducting extensive online research and are willing to purchase custom products without prior showroom visits, drawn by exceptional customer service and competitive pricing. The appeal of these brands also stems from their meticulous quality control, transparent processes, and superior customer service, benefits often attributed to their non-mass-produced nature and shorter lead times. Several brands are exemplifying this trend. Coley Home, for instance, specializes in fully-upholstered beds like 'The Crown Bed,' offering customization in headboard shapes, fabrics, piping, and leg finishes, all delivered within ten days. Their emphasis on easy assembly further enhances customer convenience, reducing the need for external help, which is particularly beneficial during a pandemic. Society Social provides a range of custom furniture, including lounge chairs with various styles, fabrics, and optional embellishments like tape trim and fringe. Their commitment to quality is evident in their North Carolina factory, and they offer in-person consultations at their Charlotte store. Casa Kids stands out with its innovative, multifunctional, and modular pieces, such as bunk and loft beds integrated with desks and storage. Handmade in Brooklyn from sustainably-sourced Baltic Birch, these items are customizable with Benjamin Moore colors and feature adjustable heights, making them ideal for smaller spaces and promoting longevity. The Inside offers a wide array of customizable products, from dining chairs to other home items, with over a hundred fabric options, including collaborations with esteemed brands. Their dining chairs, though limited in style, are highly versatile due to the extensive fabric choices. Interior Define is celebrated for its clean, modern contemporary designs, providing numerous options for sofas in terms of fabrics, leg styles, and configurations. They offer complimentary one-on-one assistance and prioritize practical features like child and pet-friendly upholstery. BenchMade Modern addresses specific spatial needs by offering sofas and sectionals in 100 sizes with five-inch increments, along with diverse arrangements, upholstery, and wood choices, all handcrafted domestically within 30 days. Beyond furniture, custom decor is also gaining traction. Paynes Gray, an online boutique, offers a curated selection of custom pieces, including the Morris Writing Desk from Redford House, which is available in twenty finishes and various hardware options. Pepper provides custom throw pillows in multiple sizes and fabrics, allowing for personalized accents. Edie Parker features a bespoke collection of vintage-inspired decor, such as hand-poured acrylic trays that can be customized with choices of tray, font, and text color. The Brooklyn Teacup repurposes vintage China into tiered stands, offering unique serving or display pieces, with options to use sourced China or customers' own heirlooms. These brands collectively highlight a growing demand for personalized, high-quality, and accessible home furnishings and decor, catering to a market that values individuality and practical solutions for modern living. #InteriorDesign #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor #DirectToConsumer #OnlineRetailers #PersonalizedHome #MadeToOrder #DesignTrends

Nidhi Kapur founded Maiden Home, an online furniture company, out of frustration with the limited and often low-quality options available when furnishing her first adult home. She observed that existing large chain stores either lacked elegant designs, appeared cheap, or leaned heavily into a mid-century modern aesthetic, none of which met her desire for quality and value within her price range. Leveraging her background in e-commerce, Kapur embarked on a mission to create a direct-to-consumer model that would revolutionize the furniture shopping experience. The company name, Maiden Home, symbolizes the significant life changes that often prompt furniture purchases, such as marriage, moving to the suburbs, or buying a first home. Kapur's vision for Maiden Home centered on handcrafted, high-quality furniture made in North Carolina, drawing inspiration from her parents' long-lasting furniture purchases from the region. She traveled extensively across North Carolina to identify family-owned businesses specializing in custom upholstery that could meet her stringent requirements for affordable, handcrafted pieces. This extensive search culminated in establishing partnerships with skilled artisans capable of producing the desired products. Maiden Home distinguishes itself by cutting out traditional intermediaries, adopting a direct-to-consumer approach that has proven successful in other industries. This model eliminates the markups associated with selling through boutique furniture stores or outsourcing manufacturing to international factories. Consequently, a custom-made couch that might cost $6,000 through a traditional retailer can be purchased for $2,000 directly from Maiden Home, without compromising on quality, comfort, or elegance. The development of Maiden Home took two years, during which Kapur meticulously addressed the complexities of delivering custom American-made furniture nationwide. Her customer service philosophy prioritizes keeping promises and avoiding the common pitfalls of mistreating customers, a stark contrast to her perception of the furniture industry's historical practices. Maiden Home offers a streamlined customization process starting with four core sofa and four chair designs. Customers can personalize their selections based on size, fabric, and color through the company's website, which provides complimentary swatch kits and access to design advisors. These advisors offer guidance throughout the purchase journey, ensuring that selections align with a customer's aesthetic and home environment. After an order is placed, Maiden Home provides weekly updates on the manufacturing process, covering stages from cushion creation to final inspections. The company also guarantees a six-week white glove delivery service across most of the United States. An exceptionally customer-friendly policy allows for a 30-day full refund return, a rare offering in the custom furniture market. Although primarily an e-commerce platform, Maiden Home maintains an appointment-only showroom in Kapur’s Tribeca apartment for customers who prefer to view products in person. The brand officially launched on March 7, with pre-launch beta users already expressing satisfaction with the designs, comfort, and transparency regarding product origins. Maiden Home's top-selling Minetta Chair exemplifies its commitment to detailed craftsmanship, featuring 16 rows of stitch detailing and available in a wide range of fabrics and leathers. All sofas are designed for longevity, preventing flattening and cushion slippage. Kapur plans to expand the product line beyond couches and chairs, prioritizing customer feedback to introduce new furniture types based on demand, always with the customer experience at the forefront. #HomeDesign #FurnitureDesign #CustomFurniture #DirectToConsumer #MaidenHome #ECommerce #InteriorDesign #LuxuryFurniture #HandcraftedFurniture

Built, a custom furniture company based in Tampa, specializes in crafting modern, minimalistic wooden furniture with a focus on sustainability. Founded in 2013 by Andrew Watson, the company gained significant traction after creating tabletops from reclaimed oak and two 10-foot tables from local Norfolk pine for Ulele restaurant. This project propelled Built from a one-person operation to a team of 12, whose work is now featured in various residential and commercial spaces across the Tampa area, including homes, offices for Embarc Collective and McKibbon Hospitality, and Strategic Property Partners' Water Street Tampa development. They have also supplied dining tables to establishments like Foundation Coffee, Haven, and Armature Works, and a complete furniture package to Hyde House, a co-working and event space. Built distinguishes itself by offering custom-created pieces tailored to each client's exact specifications. This bespoke approach allows customers to select specific woods and finishes and observe the manufacturing process, providing a personalized experience that larger retailers cannot match. Clients can customize dimensions, aesthetics, and functionality for items such as TV cabinets, ensuring each piece perfectly fits their needs and space. The inherent uniqueness of furniture crafted from a single slab of a fallen tree means that every Built piece is one-of-a-kind. Despite the local manufacturing process, Watson notes that many clients are surprised to learn that their furniture is built right in Tampa. The company is set to launch its first furniture line, featuring customizable staple pieces like the Willow chair, Franklin credenza, and Fig stool, all named after influential Tampa streets. New machinery is enabling this expansion into a broader market. Sustainability is a core principle for Built, a passion Watson has held for a long time. The company sources wood from fallen trees or those replanted after harvest. They also utilize small, leftover wood pieces to create smaller items like cutting boards and bowls, minimizing waste. Watson emphasizes that woodworking is an inherently carbon-neutral process, as trees absorb carbon from the atmosphere, and this carbon remains trapped in the wood even after it's processed into furniture. Built continuously strives to improve its environmental footprint by sourcing wood locally and reducing waste, with an ambitious goal of becoming carbon negative by 2025. Despite their strong commitment to green practices, the company does not heavily promote its sustainability efforts on its website, believing it is simply "the right thing to do." Watson also envisions powering their production facility with solar energy, further reducing their environmental impact. #CustomFurniture #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #MadeInTampa #Sustainability #LocalCraftsmanship #AndrewWatson #HomeDecor #ModernFurniture

Industrial designer Manu Bañó has expanded his OBJ collection with a modular shelving system crafted from a single sheet of hot-rolled steel. This new addition exemplifies Bañó's design philosophy, which centers on applying simple gestures to raw materials to create functional and aesthetically compelling objects. The shelving system's manufacturing process is intentionally straightforward, involving only several laser cuts to shape the steel sheet into its final form. This minimalist approach allows the inherent qualities of the material to remain prominent. A key characteristic of the OBJ shelving is its raw finish. Bañó deliberately chooses not to remove the natural scratches or defects that result from the manufacturing process, allowing the object to retain its original character and a connection to its industrial origins. This decision aligns with the designer's focus on material authenticity and a celebration of imperfection. The modular nature of the shelves offers significant versatility, enabling users to extend the system both vertically and horizontally, thereby adapting to various spatial requirements and display needs. Bañó emphasizes the dual function of the shelving system, noting that it can serve as a practical display unit for objects or stand alone as a sculptural piece. This interplay between utility and aesthetic ambition is a recurring theme within the OBJ collection. The designer's creative methodology is rooted in intuition rather than extensive preliminary research or reliance on references. He describes his process as an evolution from simple sketches in notebooks to tangible, three-dimensional objects, where initial strokes gradually materialize into functional designs. The OBJ collection, beyond the shelving system, includes a variety of utilitarian objects such as lamps and a lounge chair, all produced using similar simple manufacturing techniques like cutting and folding metal sheets and brass tubes. This consistency in approach across the collection highlights Bañó's commitment to a design language that values directness and material honesty. He acknowledges that while his designs prioritize aesthetic beauty, their functional purpose remains an inherent consideration, reflecting the designer's comfort in creating objects that can integrate into a living space and serve a practical role. Ultimately, the OBJ collection, and particularly the new shelving system, represents a contemporary exploration of material transformation through minimal intervention. By embracing the raw state of industrial materials and employing straightforward fabrication methods, Manu Bañó creates pieces that are both visually impactful and inherently functional. The collection challenges conventional notions of refined finishes, instead highlighting the beauty that can be found in simplicity and the untouched qualities of raw materials. #FurnitureDesign #SculpturalDesign #IndustrialDesign #MetalFurniture #ModularDesign #RawMaterials #DesignProcess #MinimalistDesign

The 'Connected' project, a collaboration between British furniture brand Benchmark and the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), emerged from the unique challenges posed by a global pandemic. This initiative brought together nine designers to create furniture pieces aimed at enhancing the working-from-home experience. A significant aspect of this project was the designers' inability to physically visit the workshop or interact directly with their creations, necessitating reliance on remote communication tools like Zoom and WhatsApp, and a considerable degree of trust in the craftspeople at Benchmark. Sean Sutcliffe, co-founder of Benchmark, highlighted the increased leap of faith required from designers in trusting the technical, visual, and sensory aspects of the craftsmanship without in-person observation. An example of the innovative problem-solving employed by Benchmark is demonstrated in Studio Swine’s chair, which required its red oak and cherry wood components to be submerged in the River Kennet for a week to facilitate steam-bending. This resourcefulness is characteristic of Benchmark's workshop, which boasts 58 skilled craftspeople. Sabine Marcelis, a Wallpaper* Designer of the Year, praised Benchmark's willingness to push creative and technical boundaries, a stark contrast to the limitations often encountered with other manufacturers. Marcelis's contribution to 'Connected' is the 'Candy Cubicle,' a maple-veneer box designed to conceal home-working tools, including her partner’s monitor, with a surprising acid-yellow interior. Sustainability is a core principle of 'Connected,' mirroring previous collaborations between AHEC and Benchmark. Designers selected from red oak, maple, and cherry—woods that represent 40 percent of American hardwood forests but are often underutilized. David Venables, European director at AHEC, explained the council's mission to reintroduce these 'unfashionable' woods to designers and consumers, thereby promoting the sustainable use of all natural resources. The project underscores how consumer choices influence forest composition, advocating for a broader appreciation of timber species beyond the obvious choices. The pandemic and the chosen materials appear to have fostered a renewed appreciation for nature among the designers. Works range from Thomas Heatherwick’s biomimicry-inspired maple planters to Studiopepe’s 'Pink Moon' chair, reflecting a collective desire to connect with the natural world. Despite a common theme of natural inspiration, each designer's individuality is evident. Maria Bruun created a Scandinavian-style table from rippled maple, while Jaime Hayon’s 'Mesamachine' showcases complex, humorous, and movable cherry wood components. Ini Archibong's 'The Gate,' an outdoor collection, draws inspiration from the Giant’s Causeway, featuring a hexagonal plinth of red oak and cherry and a green-lacquered red oak top with brass inlays. Maria Jeglinska-Adamczewska's seat utilizes barrel-making techniques for its curved form, and Sebastian Herkner designed 'Stammtisch,' a modern Lazy Susan with sliding trays made from various woods and finishes. The designers will see their completed pieces in person for the first time at London's Design Museum, where 'Connected' will be exhibited from September 11 to October 11. This exhibition marks the culmination of a project that navigated unprecedented challenges through remote collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to design and sustainability. #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #RemoteCollaboration #SustainableDesign #HomeOffice #Craftsmanship #DesignMuseum #HardwoodExports #InteriorInnovation

Brittany Lyons, an Oak Cliff resident, transitioned from a full-time position as a chairman’s office coordinator at UT Southwestern Medical Center to a career in interior design. Despite holding a biology degree, Lyons’ passion for home interiors, cultivated since her childhood experiences with her parents flipping and building houses in Mississippi, eventually led her to establish Brittany Lyons Interiors. Her journey into professional interior design began in 2015 after she decorated her own home and shared photos on Instagram. A high school friend, impressed by her work, commissioned her for a home makeover, initiating a steady flow of clients primarily through word-of-mouth referrals. Upon moving to Dallas in 2016, Lyons strategically utilized social media platforms like Instagram, Houzz, and Pinterest to expand her client base. Her design philosophy centers on creating "peaceful, functional design" that promotes self-care for her clients, regardless of the project's scale, from large suburban residences to compact urban apartments. Lyons emphasizes that even small spaces deserve thoughtful design to enhance enjoyment and utility. She offers practical advice for smaller areas, such as using lighter paint colors, painting ceilings the same color as walls to create an illusion of space, incorporating mirrors, and avoiding oversized electronics. Running her business, Lyons faced the initial challenge of assembling a reliable team of contractors, painters, and installers who could deliver quality work at a reasonable cost and uphold her brand's integrity. She has since built a trusted crew, ensuring that anyone representing her company is professional and dependable. Lyons considers professional photography of her completed projects an indispensable asset for her business, as these images are crucial for her online marketing efforts and attract a significant portion of her clientele. Among her notable projects, Lyons recently completed a $1.5 million custom-built new home in Lucas, Texas, where her responsibilities included selecting every detail, from flooring and paint colors to stone and lighting fixtures, to personalize the space for her clients. She particularly enjoys redesigning bedrooms, considering them personal spaces where much can be done with elements like headboards, linens, and pillows to foster peaceful environments. Lyons highlights that many people misunderstand the value of hiring an interior designer, often viewing it as a luxury rather than a worthwhile investment. She clarifies that a designer's role extends far beyond aesthetic choices, encompassing intricate tasks such as coordinating deliveries, ensuring correct item reception, running errands for materials, advising on technical details like grout type and lighting placement, and managing contractors. Ultimately, Lyons asserts that the primary benefit of hiring a designer is saving clients considerable time and ensuring projects are executed correctly the first time, thus providing significant value for a fraction of the total renovation cost. She finds immense satisfaction in witnessing clients' reactions to their newly designed spaces and hearing how these transformations positively impact their lives, despite the inherent stresses of her profession. #InteriorDesign #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #HomeDecor #ResidentialDesign #DallasBusiness #CareerTransition

The Barrow Collection by Toronto-based designer Mary Ratcliffe represents an expansion of her design philosophy, initially introduced with the Barrow Dining Table in 2021. The collection, which now includes a bench, side tables, and a mirror, is unified by its sculptural aesthetic and a distinctive approach to woodworking, drawing inspiration from the centuries-old coopering technique of barrel-making. This method involves shaping repeated trapezoidal staves into curved, yet angular, volumes, thereby creating a visual language that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design principles. Ratcliffe's work is characterized by a dialogue with wood as a dynamic material. The design process emphasizes the manipulation of wood's inherent properties to achieve precise, repeatable forms. This involves taking traditional rules governing wood movement and applying a contemporary interpretation, simplifying these principles to create shapes that evoke a sense of thoughtful repetition and sculptural meditation. The resulting pieces maintain a balance between a monumental presence and an approachable feel, defining a softness that also highlights a nuanced aspect of brutalism in design. The Barrow Table exemplifies this design approach through its clustered or split bases. The angled cuts within these bases interact with light and shadow, creating an illusion of lightness despite the table's substantial form. The Barrow Bench reinterprets the table's forms, applying them to its edges, which in turn reveals the precision of the design from different perspectives. A subtle six-degree contour in the bench's seat is incorporated to enhance comfort, demonstrating an attention to user experience alongside aesthetic considerations. The Barrow Side Tables, scaled-down iterations of the collection's larger pieces, feature cantilevered marble tops. These elements introduce negative space, creating visual breaks that contribute to a lighter overall composition. The side tables can be arranged individually or as a nested pair, offering flexibility in their display and function. The Barrow Mirror extends the collection's geometric language, featuring a hand-polished aluminum frame complemented by faceted wooden 'claws.' This design choice refines the collection's aesthetic into a more intricate, jewel-like, and wall-mounted form. The development of the Barrow Collection involved significant technical challenges, particularly in achieving the signature angled cuts. Ensuring these cuts were crisp, repeatable, and stable, despite wood's natural tendencies, required years of experimentation, the development of custom jigs, and a crucial innovation in construction. This breakthrough involved replacing solid sections with a veneered, hollow-core build, allowing for the precise execution of the designs. The evolution of these pieces, from initial concept to final form, reflects a hard-won technical journey that culminates in a seemingly inevitable design. The collection is presented in blackened oak, a deliberate choice intended to minimize the visual distraction of wood grain and allow the ethereal qualities of the forms to take precedence. When viewed as a cohesive unit, the pieces appear less as individual objects and more as a unified set of artifacts. They evoke the impression of originating from a shared architectural concept, embodying a tradition that values material honesty, conscientious construction, substantial presence, and the subtle drama inherent in well-defined forms. Ratcliffe's work redefines brutalism, presenting it not as cold but as a language of precision, patience, and craft delivered with warmth, emphasizing the human element in production through a small, dedicated team overseeing the process from raw material to finished product. #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #FurnitureDesign #ModernDesign #Woodworking #ProductDesign #SculpturalFurniture #MinimalistDesign #DesignProcess

Freeze Design Build, a Minneapolis-based custom furniture company founded by Kiley Friese and Sam Busko in 2018, specializes in crafting unique furniture pieces. Their work, often discovered through word-of-mouth, demonstrates an experimental approach to design and a commitment to seeing projects through from conception to completion. Both founders are graduates of the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, where they honed their skills in both the design and construction aspects of furniture making. This comprehensive understanding allows them to address design challenges and problem-solve effectively, ensuring that their creations are not only aesthetically pleasing on paper but also physically beautiful in their finished form. The company’s capabilities extend beyond woodworking to include metalworking and exploring various material composites. This versatility enables them to incorporate diverse elements and designs into their custom pieces. In addition to bespoke commissions for residential clients, Freeze Design Build maintains an online shop where they offer a curated selection of items. These include functional pieces like entryway shelves, benches with integrated shoe storage, and various shelving units. A notable product line is their collection of plant stands, many of which are ingeniously crafted from scrap wood, showcasing their dedication to sustainable practices and creative reuse of materials. The founders emphasize their unique use of leftover wood and colored cork samples in items such as their entryway pieces, highlighting their resourcefulness. The bench with shoe storage is specifically mentioned for its integration of graphic elements, line, and pattern, resulting in a modern design. This product line serves as a platform for their creative expression and allows them to gauge public preferences while solidifying their brand aesthetic. Friese and Busko describe their work as “fun” and their creations as embodying a playful spirit, which resonates with their clientele. Customers often seek out Freeze Design Build when they have specific project requirements that other providers may not be able to accommodate, underscoring the company’s ability to tackle unique and complex design challenges. The firm's founders pride themselves on being approachable and enjoyable to work with, contributing to their positive customer relationships. This combination of design expertise, building proficiency, material experimentation, and a customer-centric approach positions Freeze Design Build as a distinctive presence in the custom furniture market, offering both unique bespoke pieces and a range of thoughtfully designed retail products. #CustomFurniture #FurnitureDesign #Woodworking #Metalworking #HomeDecor #MinneapolisDesign #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #ArtisanFurniture

New Leaf Custom Homes, founded in 2006 by Scott and Melissa Powell, is a designer-led residential construction company that emphasizes sophisticated design and creative ideas in its approach to home building. The company’s core philosophy revolves around not just constructing homes, but also building strong relationships with clients, aiming to redefine the traditional design-to-build experience. Melissa Powell highlights that the company's team members are "artists at heart," passionate about creating "amazing spaces." This artistic drive ensures that the creative vision is central to every project. The involvement of designers from the initial concept stages allows for a high level of creative detail to be considered and implemented throughout the entire construction process, ensuring that all design ideas are realized in the most effective manner. New Leaf Custom Homes has expanded its in-house capabilities by launching two sister companies: The Design Shop and Pools by Design. The Design Shop integrates the complete design process, ensuring seamless collaboration between design and construction teams. This integrated approach allows the highly creative design team to be hands-on, from the first sketches to the final construction details. This synergy between design and construction is presented as a novel and efficient way to build custom homes. Clients of New Leaf Custom Homes benefit from this integrated structure, as the in-house design team works closely with the construction team from the project's inception to its completion. This ensures that the aesthetic and functional aspects of the home are harmoniously executed. The company aims to provide a comprehensive and cohesive experience, resulting in high-end custom residential properties that reflect both sophisticated design and quality craftsmanship. The article, identified as "Partner Content" and sponsored, positions New Leaf Custom Homes as a leader in custom home building, particularly noting their inclusion in D Magazine's "Best Builders 2024." This recognition underscores their reputation within the industry for their innovative approach and commitment to design-led construction. The company’s growth, marked by the addition of specialized sister companies, further illustrates their dedication to offering a full spectrum of services for custom home projects, from interior design to pool construction. Overall, New Leaf Custom Homes distinguishes itself through its designer-led model, integrated service offerings, and a focus on client relationships, all contributing to their goal of delivering high-quality, custom-designed residences. Their emphasis on creative vision and meticulous execution from start to finish defines their unique position in the custom home building market. #NewLeafCustomHomes #CustomHomeBuilders #ResidentialConstruction #DesignerLed #HomeDesign #DallasBuilders #TheDesignShop #PoolsByDesign

The article highlights seven Australian designers and studios specializing in custom-made furniture, emphasizing the benefits of bespoke pieces over mass-produced items. Custom furniture is portrayed as a unique investment that perfectly fits a home's aesthetic and functional requirements, offering durability and a personal connection between the buyer and the maker. Supporting local businesses and Australian craftsmanship are additional advantages of commissioning custom pieces. Nick Pedullá of Pedulla Studio in Sydney, inspired by his grandfather's woodworking, crafts exquisite made-to-measure furniture. He values the uniqueness of each piece, designed and built specifically for the client, and meticulously selects timber for grain structure and integrity. Pedullá aims to share his skills through his YouTube channel, offering insights into his workshop process. While smaller makers excel in custom work, large retailers like Harvey Norman and Domayne also provide customization options. Amber Cooke, National Product and Business Manager for furniture at Harvey Norman, notes that customized pieces offer unique tailoring to space and long-term enjoyment. In Perth, Karl Young of Saltwood Designs, a former aircraft engineer, transitioned his passion for woodworking into a career. He draws inspiration from Danish design, focusing on lightweight, uncomplicated, and timeless pieces. Young believes that owning a bespoke item is a privilege, allowing clients to embark on a creative journey with the maker from idea to tangible object, often using beautiful timbers like walnut. Melbourne-based duo Kieran Meegan and Rickie-lee Robbie founded Idle Hands, combining Kieran's metal fabrication skills with Rickie-lee's artistic vision. They create bespoke tables, plant stands, and shelves, emphasizing the strength of steel for pared-back designs. Their philosophy centers on the value of owning an object with a clear origin and specific relevance to the owner's life. Melbourne sisters Alice and Laura McIntosh established Trust in Dust, repurposing stone offcuts into unique occasional tables and planter stands. Each piece is distinct, shaped and designed individually, reinforcing the idea of investing in furniture crafted specifically for the buyer rather than from a production line. They highlight the importance of supporting Australian creativity and talent. Luke Reddie and Blake Robertson of Concrete Republic in Geelong specialize in glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) furniture. Luke, with 16 years in the concreting industry, developed techniques for creating slim, non-chunky concrete pieces. Their range includes planters, benches, and dining tables, with endless customization options for size, shape, color, and leg design. They are also launching the Concrete Academy to teach others about working with GFRC. In Melbourne, Nicola Grey and Tara Wilcox of Redfox & Wilcox produce Modernist-inspired furniture, combining timber and metal. Tara, the welder, contributes to the construction of consoles and kitchen stools with slim steel legs. They stress the connection between owners and makers, offering deep customization in timber tones and finishes, with all materials sourced locally. Laura McCusker, a furniture designer and maker based in Hobart, creates beautifully constructed timber pieces using Tasmanian oak. She views custom furniture as creating heirlooms and encourages client involvement in the making process, fostering a sense of ownership even before completion. James Howe, an Adelaide-based designer, embraces diverse materials from timber to steel, valuing texture and light interaction. He sees bespoke furniture as a collaboration between maker and buyer, resulting in a piece that perfectly serves individual tastes and needs, and is currently exploring Danish cord-weaving techniques. #CustomFurniture #AustralianDesigners #BespokeFurniture #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Craftsmanship #SupportLocal #FurnitureMakers #SustainableFurniture

Albert Potgieter, the founder of a Rotterdam-based furniture art design company, focuses on merging functionality with aesthetics in his creations. His work aims to fulfill practical needs while simultaneously enriching home environments with artistic value. Potgieter’s designs are conceived to maintain their relevance and impact even when not actively in use, ensuring they contribute to the space around the clock. His approach incorporates both bespoke pieces, customized to individual preferences, and curated designs that seamlessly integrate with existing decor, highlighting furniture's dual role as functional objects and artistic expressions. Potgieter's journey into design began after moving from South Africa to Rotterdam, Netherlands. His business was established with a clear mission: to use design and craftsmanship as a vehicle for social good, offering individuals a second chance. He aims to uplift people from challenging circumstances by providing education and skill development through the creation of high-end furniture. His specialization in furniture, particularly with wood, stems from a profound admiration for the material's inherent qualities, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. He finds wood to be a captivating medium that aligns with his design philosophy. When developing new projects, Potgieter emphasizes a process of trial and error. He prioritizes a personal connection to his work, believing that genuine affection for a design is essential for its effective promotion and successful realization. His vital tools include a traditional paper and pen for initial ideas, as well as a tablet with a design program for creating 3D models. However, he stresses that the design process extends beyond digital rendering; he actively engages with materials in his workshop, often refining and adjusting designs through a tactile, hands-on approach. For Potgieter, designing and making are intertwined, forming a cohesive creative process. Research is an integral part of Potgieter's design methodology. He views creativity as an ongoing process of observation, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as nature, architecture, and existing designs. Every element encountered serves as a potential spark for new ideas and concepts. When working on custom pieces for clients, the process becomes highly interactive, involving extensive dialogue to understand their preferences, tastes, and vision. This collaborative approach allows him to integrate client ideas with his design expertise, resulting in harmonious and personalized creations. Potgieter does not limit his inspiration to a single designer but rather draws from the global community of talented designers, appreciating their unique perspectives and innovative techniques. Beyond the design world, he finds immense creative stimulation in the natural world, captivated by its intricate forms and organic lines. Nature, with its unparalleled beauty and complexity, serves as a fundamental source of inspiration for his creative endeavors. Regarding social media, Potgieter acknowledges its benefits in providing accessibility to inspiration and connecting with a global community of designers and galleries. However, he maintains that genuine, face-to-face interactions at galleries and shows are irreplaceable for fostering deeper connections and understanding, which cannot always be replicated online. His work includes notable pieces like the Optique Sculptural Chair, the Ahadi Coffee Table, the Optique Coffee Table, the Urithi Lounge Chair, and the Ahadi Side Table, each embodying his philosophy of functional artistry and often drawing inspiration from significant personal or natural elements. #FurnitureDesign #ArtDesign #FunctionalArt #WoodenFurniture #BespokeFurniture #Craftsmanship #DesignProcess #Inspiration #SocialImpact

Designed & Made, a St. Paul, Minnesota-based custom woodworking shop founded by Brian Grabski, specializes in cabinetry, architectural woodwork, and original design pieces. The company's name, 'Designed & Made,' signifies its commitment to complete creative ownership, from initial concept to final construction. This philosophy is inspired by artisans who integrate design and making under one roof, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and alignment with the architectural vision of each project. The company maintains a small team of 10 highly skilled employees within its 8,000-square-foot facility. This intentional size allows for agility and exceptional quality control, while still being equipped to manage the demanding schedules of large-scale residential projects. This approach helps prevent overextension, guaranteeing that every project receives dedicated focus. Designed & Made's process emphasizes collaboration and precision, beginning with detailed discussions with architects, designers, or homeowners. The design phase involves development and 3D modeling, where proportions, details, and materials are refined collaboratively. Following approval, all engineering is performed in-house, generating precise shop drawings and CNC-ready files. Fabrication occurs on-site, integrating advanced machinery with traditional handcraftsmanship. Most projects are fully finished and assembled before delivery and installation. The majority of Designed & Made's work involves high-end residential cabinetry and millwork, often encompassing full-home packages. The company also undertakes select commercial projects that align with its values and methodology. Typically, two to three projects are active simultaneously, progressing through a linear workflow of design, engineering, fabrication, finishing, and installation. This structured approach maintains focus on quality and detail. Designed & Made offers end-to-end services, including design consulting, engineering, procurement, fabrication, logistics, and installation, enabling precise execution of complex, architecturally driven projects. The shop is equipped with two Holz-Her 3-axis CNC routers, digital modeling software (Rhino/Grasshopper/F360/Cabinet Vision), advanced spray finishing capabilities, an SCMI edgebander, a Timesavers 3-head widebelt sander, a Weinig moulder, and various other traditional woodworking tools. The company is recognized for its blend of digital fabrication and traditional woodworking, incorporating sculptural shaping, bookmatched veneers, custom joinery, and meticulous hand-finishing. Material selection is a collaborative process, involving the careful sourcing of hardwoods and veneers to ensure consistency in tone, grain, and figure, balancing performance with aesthetic requirements. Designed & Made operates as a sustainable company, utilizing FSC-certified hardwoods, optimizing material yields through digital nesting, and employing low-VOC finishing systems. The company's focus on longevity and quality inherently contributes to its sustainability strategy. Approximately 75 percent of the work involves kitchens, cabinetry, and architectural millwork, with the remaining 25 percent dedicated to specialty furniture and sculptural commissions. These unique pieces allow the team to explore innovative forms, materials, and processes, showcasing the company's capabilities at the intersection of architecture, design, and craftsmanship. A notable example of the company's capabilities is a custom pool table, displayed in their showroom. This "passion project" demonstrates Designed & Made's comprehensive skills in high-end design, digital modeling, machining, handcraftsmanship, and finishing. The pool table, inspired by a vintage Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. table, involved extensive 3D modeling and engineering by Brian Grabski and Duncan MacLeslie. Intricate details, such as genuine ivory inlays and hand-selected mahogany veneer, highlight the team's precision and artistic skill. Adrian Bileydi-Lee executed the veneering and ivory inlay, while Paul Perrone applied a custom, hand-rubbed finish. Andy Fleischhacker, the production foreman, oversaw the entire project. This collaborative effort exemplifies the company's belief that the combined skills of multiple craftsmen can produce results greater than the sum of individual contributions. Brian Grabski's woodworking journey began in high school, influenced by a shop teacher and an inspiring experience at Classic Woodworks. His entrepreneurial father further shaped his path, leading him to establish Designed & Made in 2005. Grabski was recognized as a Wood Industry 40 Under 40 in 2016 and continues to contribute to the industry by serving on the Board of Directors for the Saint Paul College Woodworking Program, offering curriculum feedback and shop tours to students. #CustomWoodworking #Cabinetry #ArchitecturalMillwork #ResidentialDesign #Craftsmanship #CNCMachining #SustainablePractices #FurnitureDesign #DesignBuild #InteriorDesign