Elite Woodworks' components for success

Poland has emerged as the world's third-largest furniture exporter, a transformation rooted in its abundant forest resources and entrepreneurial spirit, which has flourished since the fall of communism in 1989. The country's woodworking industry, particularly in southeastern Poland, is experiencing significant growth and modernization. Kleniewski Tartak, a sawmill in this region, exemplifies this trend. Owner Waldemar Kleniewski, at 29, modernized his inherited sawmill by investing in Italian and Swedish machinery and empowering employees, shifting from a domestic focus to serving international clients. This move involved breaking traditional Polish business norms to meet global standards. This entrepreneurial energy extends beyond sawmills to furniture manufacturing. Beata Woloszyn and Damian Wasyl, co-founders of Raw furniture company, represent a new generation of Polish entrepreneurs. They returned to their hometown of Tomaszow Lubelski after gaining experience abroad to establish Raw, focusing on affordable, high-quality furniture made from natural materials. Their venture addresses a market demand for Polish-made furniture, a sentiment that is also growing across Europe. While Raw is a smaller enterprise, larger manufacturers like Converis, located in the central Polish production triangle, cater to major international brands such as Fritz Hansen and Ikea. Converis specializes in rotomoulding, producing large plastic furniture pieces and collaborating with global designers for manufacturing. Polish design heritage, though historically constrained by communist rule, is now gaining international recognition. Brands like 366 Concept, whose namesake 366 armchair designed by Jozef Chierowski in 1960 became an icon, are actively promoting Polish design globally. Their Warsaw showroom, with its deliberate Parisian aesthetic, highlights France as a key market. The country is also investing in its design future through institutions like the School of Form, Poland's leading design institution founded by businessman Piotr Voelkel to address a shortage of well-educated designers. The school, in collaboration with Lidewij Edelkoort, emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and attracts international talent for teaching and student engagement. Furthermore, the article notes the resurgence of Polish craft traditions. Szymon Pasierb, head of prototyping workshops at the School of Form, is dedicated to reviving traditional craft education, which was lost during decades of change. He points to regions like Gdansk and Zakopane as centers of unique Polish craftsmanship. The furniture brand Nudo, founded by Domenico Russo and Kaja Alaszkiewicz, embodies this blend of tradition and international influence, combining Polish craft with Italian heritage. Maja Ganszyniec, founder of Nurt, is a prominent Polish designer working to define and promote a distinct Polish design aesthetic, challenging the common comparison to Scandinavian design. She highlights Poland's innate curiosity and resilience, asserting that after years of being held back, the country's creative and economic momentum is unstoppable. The Polish furniture industry's success is a multifaceted narrative of resource utilization, entrepreneurial innovation, modernization, and a renewed focus on national design identity and education. From the raw material processing at sawmills to the creation of high-end furniture brands and the cultivation of future designers, Poland is solidifying its position as a global leader in the timber-furniture sector, leveraging its historical context and contemporary drive to carve out a significant niche in the international market. #PolishFurnitureIndustry #TimberFurniture #Woodworking #FurnitureManufacturing #PolishDesign #EntrepreneurialSpirit #Modernization #Craftsmanship #DesignEducation

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

Engineered wood products (EWP) are advanced, high-performance building materials characterized by their dimensional stability and consistent performance. These products are manufactured using small dimension lumber, veneers, and wood fibers to create structural components. EWP has significantly influenced the building industry and is projected to see continued growth, largely driven by the expansion of the U.S. housing market. Government reports on residential construction indicate a positive trend. In May, privately owned housing starts increased by 5% over April's revised estimate and were 20.3% higher than May of the previous year. Single-family housing starts also saw a 3.9% increase. Building permits, while slightly down from April, remained 8% above the previous year's rate. Industry experts, such as Joe K. Elling from APA – The Engineered Wood Association, anticipate sustained growth for EWP, forecasting 1.36 million housing starts in 2019, up from 1.3 million in 2018. Demand for North American-produced I-joists is expected to rise by 6% in 2018 and an additional 2% to 3% in 2019. Beyond housing starts, factors such as pricing stability, volatility in commodity lumber, demand for long-length lumber, lumber quality, and increased design flexibility contribute to EWP's anticipated growth. Residential construction, encompassing both single-family and multi-family homes, remains the primary driver for EWP manufacturers. Mass timber construction, which increasingly uses wood in mixed-use development projects, is also fueling demand for solid-section EWPs like glulam beams and columns. The millennial demographic is identified as a key influence in the residential growth forecast, with predictions of a 5-7% increase in single-family starts for 2019. Challenges to this growth include a shortage of skilled labor for both trucking and construction, particularly for on-site product installation. Despite these labor concerns, the overall trajectory for EWP usage and demand remains upward. A significant trend poised to further propel EWP growth is mass timber construction, which is gaining popularity in the U.S., particularly for four- and five-story mixed-use developments. This method utilizes solid or engineered wood for primary load-bearing structures and solid wood panels for walls, floors, and roofs, offering a sustainable and carbon-friendly alternative to steel and concrete. Examples of mass timber products include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Nail-Laminated Timber (NLT), Laminated Strand Lumber (LSL), Parallel Strand Lumber (PSL), and Glue-Laminated Timber (glulam). Engineered wood products have a long history, with archaeological evidence dating back thousands of years. Modern EWP has evolved consistently with changes in building codes and practices, becoming stiffer, stronger, more fire-resistant, energy-efficient, and easier to install. Manufacturers are integrating structural panels with air and water barriers to reduce labor requirements and meet new code standards for lower air exchange rates. Due to mass timber construction, EWPs are also being developed to meet more stringent fire codes, with some achieving fire ratings of up to two hours. While radical changes are unlikely, evolutionary advancements are continuously being made to improve product performance and address specific market needs, such as fire-resistant I-joists for unfinished residential basements in certain regions. Product consistency is a critical advantage of EWP, especially in an era of labor shortages. Builders seek products that are easy and quick to install, consistent in quality, and minimize callbacks. EWP solutions address these needs, enabling builders to operate more efficiently. The "one-stop-shopping" approach, where a single manufacturer or supplier provides a wide range of EWP solutions, simplifies the process for contractors and homeowners, fostering confidence in product performance and warranties. Manufacturers are also emphasizing the environmental benefits of EWP, highlighting their vertical integration and efficient use of wood resources. Ultimately, comprehensive product knowledge and strong manufacturer support, including training, literature, and technical assistance, are essential for dealers to effectively sell EWP, leading to increased sales, faster construction, and greater customer satisfaction. #EngineeredWoodProducts #ConstructionIndustry #HousingMarket #MassTimberConstruction #BuildingMaterials #SustainableBuilding #LaborShortages #ProductInnovation #ResidentialConstruction

The Cabinet Makers Association (CMA) has introduced a new Professional Certification program designed to provide credentials for professionals in the cabinetry and millwork industry, custom woodworking, and commercial interior firms. This program aims to address a gap in the industry by offering a comprehensive certification that covers the entire business of running a successful custom woodworking or cabinet shop, including the crucial customer's perspective. The certification program is structured into two levels: Basic and Master, with specialties for 'Cabinet Maker' and 'Custom Woodworker.' Credentials are awarded to individuals, not businesses, emphasizing personal professional development. A unique and foundational aspect of the program is an intensive business ethics session that all participants must complete before progressing to the basic certification curriculum. To achieve Basic level certification, graduates must demonstrate advanced knowledge across several key areas. These include business management, understanding machinery, wood physics, design principles, finishing techniques, safety education, and the fundamentals of measurement. This level ensures a robust understanding of the core operational and technical aspects of the trade. Master level graduates are required to exhibit expert knowledge in at least seven out of eleven specialized areas. These advanced topics encompass a wide range of skills and disciplines crucial for high-level proficiency in the woodworking industry. The areas include: Tools, Portable Power Tools, Machinery (at a Master Level), Shop Drawings/Design Drawings, Software proficiency, CNC Machinery operation, Marketing strategies, Lean Manufacturing principles, Finance & Computer Assisted Bookkeeping, comprehensive Shop/Job Site Safety, and Green Manufacturing practices. This comprehensive approach ensures that master-certified individuals possess a broad and deep skill set. Upon successful completion of the required testing for either level, candidates undergo an interview with the CMA Certification Board before their credentials are officially conferred. Certified individuals are then authorized to use specific professional designations, which include: CCM (Certified Cabinet Maker), CCW (Certified Custom Woodworker), MCM (Master Cabinet Maker), and MCW (Master Custom Woodworker). These designations serve as a public recognition of their expertise and commitment to professional standards. Maintaining these credentials requires a commitment to ongoing professional development through continuing education. Certified individuals must earn annual Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to keep their knowledge and skills current and relevant in a dynamic industry. The CMA facilitates this by offering various seminars and workshops, including sessions at events like the Custom Cabinet Conference, AWFS, and IWF. The program allows flexibility for participants, as there is no time limit for earning either basic or master level certifications. Dave Grulke, CMA’s Executive Director, highlights that CMA-certified professionals will gain a status that can significantly benefit their businesses' bottom line by assuring clients of their reliability and commitment to delivering promised work. The development of this program was a collaborative effort, driven by a dedicated group of CMA member volunteers, including a certification committee composed of industry professionals like Leland Thomasset, Jim Falk, Brendan Mathews, Scott Comstock, Jeff Mitzel, and John Langley. Further details and registration information are available on the Cabinet Makers Association website. #CabinetMaking #Woodworking #ProfessionalCertification #BusinessEthics #ContinuingEducation #LeanManufacturing #GreenManufacturing #CustomWoodworker #WoodIndustry

Builder's Cabinet Supply, a Chicago-based manufacturer of custom residential cabinetry, expanded its market reach by opening a new 3,500-square-foot street-level showroom in October 2010. For over 25 years, the company primarily catered to builders and developers, but the new showroom was designed to attract a broader professional audience, including interior designers, architects, remodelers, and even some end-users. This strategic move followed an earlier relocation 17 years prior from cramped facilities to a larger factory building, which itself became surrounded by new housing developments due to gentrification, making the new showroom more accessible to local residents. The housing market downturn significantly impacted Builder's Cabinet Supply's traditional builder-focused business, which had previously seen peak production of up to 1,000 cabinets daily. In response, the company actively sought new opportunities, particularly by targeting remodelers and individual homeowners. While radio advertisements were used for end-users, a significant portion of their new business came through referrals. The new showroom serves as a crucial tool for inspiring potential clients, offering fully finished kitchen displays complete with high-end appliances, lighting, and decorative elements to help customers visualize their projects. This contrasts with their previous, less accessible showroom located within the factory. The expansion led to a doubling of their Chicago design staff to six, with additional designers located in a suburban office. New customers are matched with designers based on their specific needs. Unlike builders and developers who typically have large, well-defined orders, designers and remodelers often work on single-site projects. All cabinetry produced is custom, based on the company's Orchard Hill Cabinets brand, adhering to standard specifications such as 5/8-inch furniture board construction and frameless cabinet designs that offer increased storage. The company also uses 20-20 Technologies software for approximately 80 percent of its projects. Design trends observed include a fragmented market with demand for both cost-effective and moderate-to-high-end options. Contemporary and mixed-surface designs are gaining popularity, along with flat-panel doors and various shades of gray in high-gloss foiled finishes. Quarter-sawn oak remains a classic choice. While there isn't a significant increase in demand for complex electronic integrations due to wireless technology, the company offers LED puck lighting and magnetic switch lights. Automated open-and-close systems for drawers, particularly from Blum, are also popular. For entertainment centers, the company collaborates with audio-visual experts, using techniques like false panels to conceal wiring. Production operations, overseen by Rick Bohnsak, emphasize efficiency despite the custom nature of the work. As the client base diversified, projects increasingly shifted from short production runs to unique, one-off orders. Builder's Cabinet Supply utilizes point-to-point CNCs, such as Biesse Rover 24, Rover 336, and Weeke Venture CNCs, along with other machinery like Brandt edgebanders, Selco and Holzma Optimat HPP 250 panel saws, and Koch doweling machines. Redundancy in machinery is prioritized to ensure continuous production. The manufacturing process typically takes two to three days, starting from computerized designs. The company avoids directly linking 20-20 Technologies to CNCs due to the highly custom nature of each order, which can involve numerous line items for a single kitchen. Doors are mostly manufactured in-house, with flat thermofoil doors being outsourced. The company maintains a market advantage through local production, offering reduced shipping costs and faster delivery times, which customers appreciate. Cabinet construction features glued and doweled joints, dovetailed drawers, and high-quality Blum soft-close hinges and slides. Branding efforts include their Orchard Hill Cabinets line and online presence through buildmykitchen.com, Facebook, and mentions on Subzero Appliances' website for custom appliance integration. The showroom features high-end kitchens with large islands and deep cabinetry, catering to a mid-to-high-end market segment, with inset cabinetry representing the highest tier. Reconstituted veneers, cherry, and walnut are popular materials. While green products were once in demand, customer willingness to pay a premium for them has decreased since the economic downturn. However, local production offers an inherent environmental advantage that resonates with clients. #Cabinetry #CustomDesign #Showroom #MarketExpansion #InteriorDesign #KitchenDesign #Manufacturing #Woodworking #BusinessStrategy

Tyreik Jackson shares his journey and insights, emphasizing that success is defined by doing what one loves. He highlights the importance of creating efficient, duplicable systems and the benefits of an early start to the day. Jackson reflects on his background in woodworking, which he began in high school in the mid-90s, and continued through college, earning an associate's degree in light frame construction residential remodeling with a minor in cabinet making and millwork from SUNY Delhi. His career path led him to high-end construction in New York City, where he spent two decades working for affluent clients on Manhattan's Upper East Side. This experience honed his craftsmanship and exposed him to a high standard of excellence, allowing him to build valuable relationships with talented tradespeople. In 2019, Jackson launched his own business, transitioning into custom cabinetry and millwork. His passion for building has remained constant, though his approach has evolved. A significant part of his work involves one-on-one consultations with potential clients, where he helps them translate rough sketches into tangible designs, focusing on scale, symmetry, and proportion. This personalized approach has been a key driver of his word-of-mouth referrals. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a significant pivot for Jackson's business. Initially, he intended to pursue general contracting, leveraging his 14 years of experience working for a general contractor. However, the pandemic's impact, particularly on school systems and the shift to remote or hybrid learning, prompted him to change direction. As a single father of three young children, he decided to specialize in custom cabinetry, which allowed him to complete 95% of the work in his home-based wood shop and only 5% on-site. This shift provided him with the flexibility needed to balance his business and family responsibilities, enabling him to be more present for his children. Jackson also discusses how he funded his business. After renting his first apartment in Harlem, New York, for eight years, he purchased it in 2010. In 2011, he undertook a complete gut renovation of this apartment, incorporating high-end finishes inspired by the multi-million dollar projects he had worked on. In 2015, upon closing on his current home, an appraisal revealed that his New York City apartment had quadrupled in value. He utilized a home equity line of credit from this property to finance both the renovation of his new home and the establishment of his business. #TyreikJackson #Woodworking #CustomCabinetry #Millwork #Entrepreneurship #BusinessPivot #HomeRenovation #HighEndConstruction #SmallBusinessFunding

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

Axos Designs, a New York-based millwork shop, has established itself as a leading provider of custom architectural woodwork, cabinetry, and interior detailing for high-end residential and commercial projects across New York City. The company, originally a small family business, has been transformed by Chris Yerolemou, a former investment banker and the son of the founder, into a thriving operation recognized for its commitment to quality and ability to meet the demands of a competitive market. Axos Designs is particularly known for manufacturing 100% of its products in the United States, a core value emphasized by Yerolemou. The firm's portfolio includes collaborations with luxury brands and establishments such as Aime Leon Dore, Kith Ivy, Giorgio Armani, Casa Cipriani, Avra Hudson Yards, and Marquee New York. These projects span a diverse range, from custom shelves and wall paneling for retail spaces to intricate interiors for upscale restaurants and residential kitchens, like an oak veneer wall for a Southampton, NY kitchen. This versatility highlights Axos Designs' capability to cater to various high-end design requirements. The company's success is attributed to its unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technological integration. While skilled artisans apply finishing touches, Axos Designs also incorporates state-of-the-art machinery, such as Altendorf table saws, into its production process. This dual approach ensures both precision and the personalized care characteristic of bespoke woodwork. Yerolemou, leveraging his background in tech and finance, has made strategic investments in advanced equipment and project management systems, enabling the company to deliver projects on time and to exact specifications. Axos Designs has experienced significant growth under Yerolemou's leadership. The company is set to triple its current operational space, expanding to 40,000 square feet across two shops in Queens. This expansion includes integrating new machinery, increasing its workforce, and adopting the latest AI technology. The number of employees has grown from approximately 10 when Yerolemou took over to nearly 60, reflecting the increased demand for their services. Despite this rapid expansion, Yerolemou asserts that the company remains true to its foundational values of integrity, consistency, and excellence, ensuring that every project reflects the high standards set by his father. The firm's reputation for reliability and superior quality has garnered the trust of prominent design professionals throughout New York City. Axos Designs is currently in such high demand that it is acquiring an additional 30,000-square-foot factory to further accommodate its growth. The company's ongoing success demonstrates that in a fast-paced urban environment like New York City, there is still a significant appreciation for meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to quality. #Millwork #CustomWoodwork #ArchitecturalMillwork #Cabinetry #InteriorDesign #NewYorkCity #LuxuryDesign #Craftsmanship #Manufacturing

At the 2024 Stockholm Design Week, String Furniture unveiled its latest modular system, Relief, a collaboration with TAF Studio. This collection, crafted from solid wood and MDF veneer, is designed for adaptability, catering to diverse spatial needs. The Relief collection encompasses a versatile range of chests of drawers and hook rails, offered in various sizes and colors, enabling extensive customization. Each element, from the drawers to the back panel, is meticulously constructed, ensuring that the pieces function effectively as standalone furniture or as integrated components within larger storage configurations or room dividers. Mattias Ståhlbom, a designer and co-founder of TAF Studio, emphasized the collection's understated elegance and subtle design, making it intuitive to use and easy to integrate into various environments. A significant design feature distinguishing Relief from conventional chest of drawers is its intentionally crafted visible back, which allows for central room placement as a sideboard or a sophisticated room divider with integrated storage. The name "Relief" signifies the refined edging that imparts a relief-like effect, contributing to a graphic and handcrafted aesthetic. Despite its seemingly straightforward design, Relief stands out due to its superior manufacturing quality, detailed craftsmanship, and practical functionality. The system ingeniously incorporates ample storage space while maintaining a sleek exterior. TAF Studio also developed a cohesive palette of five colors, facilitating personalized combinations through nuanced mixing as the system expands. Sustainability is a core principle guiding the development of the Relief collection by String Furniture. The company ensures eco-friendly practices throughout the product's lifecycle, including its flat-pack shipping method, which substantially reduces transport emissions. The inherent adaptability of the collection allows it to evolve with changing interior designs, spaces, and aesthetic preferences. Its timeless, minimalist design, coupled with the use of high-quality materials and construction, guarantees the longevity of the Relief system. Bo Hellberg, Chief Marketing Officer at String Furniture, highlighted the system's thoughtful design, making it suitable for any room and enhancing various environments, regardless of its configuration or placement. #FurnitureDesign #ModularFurniture #TAFStudio #StringFurniture #StockholmDesignWeek #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #CustomizableFurniture #Craftsmanship

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

Wood surfaces add warmth and a welcoming feel to spaces without overwhelming other materials, making them a timeless and neutral choice in design. Madera, a US-based wood design studio founded in 2012, specializes in creating wood flooring, millwork, and furniture. Their products range from white oak stairs to sustainable exterior decking and facades. Madera offers a "Seamless Wood Design" system, ensuring that various wooden elements like stairs, architectural panels, grilles, vents, interior doors, cabinet fronts, and millwork complement each other and the flooring according to client preferences. The Peconic House in New York, designed by Mapos, integrates natural materials to blend with its Long Island bay setting. Inside, Madera's Northern White Oak Flooring and white walls create bright, airy spaces, while the brand's grey-toned Hurricane recovered Ipe Decking enhances the exterior's weathered look. Desai Chia Architecture's Ledge House in Connecticut features a charred cedar exterior, reflecting the rocky landscape. Inside, Wide Plank European Oak Flooring by Madera contrasts with the dark facade, providing a light interior. Recesses lined with panelling from Madera's Stockholm Collection match the flooring, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Twentieth in California, by Woods + Dangaran, centers around an old olive tree. The white brick, three-story home offers both indoor and outdoor living. Madera's Wide Plank European Oak Flooring from the Stockholm Collection creates a warm backdrop, allowing natural light to form patterns across its surface. For the Moore House in California, a 1965 Craig Ellwood design, Woods + Dangaran undertook a sensitive restoration. The interior features Madera's wooden teak flooring and panelling, with custom Reclaimed Teak Flooring created to match existing teak elements, bringing warmth to the space. NoMad Loft in New York, renovated by Worrell Yeung, highlights classical materials in a contemporary setting. Drawing from the building's 1871 history, the design emphasizes materiality with a simple color palette. Madera's European Oak Flooring from its TRA collection is used alongside curved, grey-plastered walls and black and white furnishings. Arnold Studio's Clinton Residence in New York combines old and new by adding a two-story apartment to a historic brick house. Pale European Oak Flooring by Madera lightens the space, contrasting with dark wood ceiling beams. White oak stairs, made from the same Madera product, brighten the stairwell. The Cedars in New York, restored by Office of Tangible Space, features crisp white interiors and cedar cladding. Madera's whitewashed European Oak Flooring and white walls create bright, light-filled spaces, with black furnishings and frames providing a contemporary contrast. Di An Di, a Brooklyn restaurant designed by Office of Tangible Space and Huy Bui, aims for a bright, community-focused environment. Madera's American Ash furniture and millwork, paired with distressed timber flooring and deep green walls, create a simple, timeless interior. The David Rubenstein Forum in Chicago, a university building by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is recognized for its six cantilevering blocks and glazed facades. Wide Plank Northern White Oak Flooring by Madera reflects light from the windows, and wood-paneled walls and ceilings add warmth to the lecture hall. Industrious at Equinox in New York, a co-working space, features Madera's Wide Plank European Oak Flooring in private offices and social areas. Klippa and Yarrow stairs from Madera's Stockholm and Terra Collections, combined with black balustrades, create a dramatic material palette, aligning with Equinox's luxurious aesthetic. #WoodDesign #InteriorDesign #MaderaSurfaces #ArchitecturalWoodwork #LuxuryInteriors #SustainableMaterials #FlooringDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #CommercialDesign

The Wood Innovation and Design Centre (WIDC) in downtown Prince George, Canada, showcases innovative wood solutions for construction challenges and highlights the beauty and versatility of value-added British Columbia wood products. As Canada's Green University, the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) aims to attract global leaders to Northern British Columbia, a region significantly reliant on the forest industry. The WIDC serves as a demonstration of innovative wood use, promoting community sustainability and resilience, and is home to the Master of Engineering in Integrated Wood Design program, which focuses on research in wood and forest products for future sustainable and healthy wood structures. Construction of the WIDC emphasizes a "dry construction" design, minimizing the use of concrete above grade. Prefabricated Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) columns and beams are rapidly assembled on-site, allowing the wood structure to remain exposed as the ceiling finish. This approach offers several advantages, including speed of erection, sequestration and reduction of embodied carbon by avoiding carbon-intensive materials like steel and concrete, and storage of carbon within the wood for the building's lifetime. Dry systems also facilitate end-of-life disassembly and reuse of wood products, aligning with circular economy principles. Building with wood is highlighted for its renewability, compliance with modern building codes due to advanced technology, and its versatility in both structural and aesthetic applications. The use of engineered wood is presented as innovative, adaptable, and efficient. The WIDC's design philosophy moves beyond a mere showpiece to create a replicable and cost-effective alternative to steel and concrete constructions, aiming to boost the B.C. wood economy through repeatable innovation. The building's scale and design elements celebrate the beauty and story of wood. The 4671 sq.m structure, made up of 1846 cubic meters of wood, features an envelope design that mimics bark peeling from a tree trunk, transitioning from opaque on the north side to increasingly transparent on the south. This design optimizes sun exposure and insulation, adapting to the northern climate by minimizing heat loss to the north and maximizing passive solar heat gain to the south, with interior wood blinds for summer heat control. The article also details the specific wood products used: Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), made of pressed, dried timber boards stacked and glued at right angles; Glued Laminated Lumber (Glulam), consisting of layers of dimensioned lumber bonded with durable adhesives; and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), composed of thin, dried softwood veneers bonded together. The construction timeline, spanning from Fall 2013 to Spring 2014, outlines the installation of the CLT elevator core, Glulam columns and beams, and CLT floor panels, followed by the building envelope and interior finishes. Innovative and repeatable structural systems are a key feature, with a staggered floor slab design creating horizontal chases for mechanical and electrical systems. An acoustic subfloor system provides easy access, and lighting and fire suppression systems are concealed within ceiling recesses. This design eliminates the need for secondary ceiling finishes, exposing the wood and reducing costs, while offering flexibility for future space reconfigurations. The all-wood structural solution is presented as highly adaptable for various building types and sizes. Furthermore, the WIDC is connected to Prince George's district energy system, meaning it is heated by hot water from a local bioenergy system operated by Lakeland Mills, underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices. #WoodInnovation #SustainableConstruction #MassTimber #GreenBuilding #EngineeredWood #ArchitecturalDesign #CircularEconomy #UniversityResearch #PrinceGeorge

Craig Stillman, founder of Garagezilla, discusses the origins of his business, his background in decorative concrete, and the unique value proposition of his company. The idea for Garagezilla emerged from a confluence of events: Stillman sold his share of a decorative concrete business after 22 years, retaining only the resinous coating services he had developed. Simultaneously, his current business partner, a carpenter with 25 years of experience, was navigating a career transition due to a work injury. This timing proved opportune, allowing them to combine Stillman's expertise in floor coatings with his partner's carpentry skills to create a specialized garage interiors business. Garagezilla aims to redefine the perception and functionality of garages, moving beyond basic offerings to provide complete transformations. The company offers high-end solutions such as polyaspartic flake and Swisstrax floors, along with advanced cabinet systems and storage solutions, including premium Hayley cabinets. Stillman emphasizes that the goal is to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, tailored to meet each homeowner's specific needs, ranging from simple organization to luxury finishes. The satisfaction derived from client reactions to their revamped garages reinforces the value of their endeavor, transforming overlooked spaces into areas of pride, utility, and enjoyment. Stillman's journey in the decorative concrete industry spanned over two decades, during which he specialized in resinous coatings for various applications, from polished floors to intricate epoxy designs. This experience formed the foundation for Garagezilla, enabling him to build upon his extensive knowledge in creating durable, high-quality spaces. The collaboration with his business partner, whose skills in design and cabinetry complemented Stillman's, allowed them to offer a comprehensive suite of garage solutions. These include flooring systems, slat walls, Steadyrack bike racks, and custom cabinet installations, addressing both average homeowners seeking decluttering and organization, and luxury-minded clients desiring high-end, customized spaces that integrate with their home's overall design. What distinguishes Garagezilla is its commitment to customization, functionality, and durability. The company focuses on crafting organized environments that align with each homeowner's unique vision, ensuring that garages receive the same level of attention and care as any other room in the home. Stillman recounts a significant pivot in his career: the unexpected sale of his previous business. This decision, prompted by partnership complications, pushed him to explore new opportunities that ultimately led to the creation of Garagezilla. This challenging period became a fresh start, aligning him more closely with his professional goals. Drawing from his experience of selling a business, Stillman offers key entrepreneurial lessons. He advises against 50/50 partnerships, suggesting that a 51/49 split allows for decisive leadership. Meticulous financial record-keeping, including transparent and well-organized profit and loss statements, is crucial for daily management and for facilitating smoother negotiations during a sale. Finally, he stresses the importance of timing, recommending that businesses be sold during a growth trajectory to maximize valuation and attract more potential buyers, as businesses on a downward trend typically yield a lower return. #Entrepreneurship #Garagezilla #HomeImprovement #BusinessPartnership #FlooringSolutions #Cabinetry #BusinessStrategy #CustomerSatisfaction #CareerPivot

Daniel Lalonde, CEO of Design Holding, a prominent luxury multibrand group in the high-end interiors market, outlines his strategic vision for the company's future, focusing on making the experience of purchasing high-end interior products more accessible. Design Holding, established through Investindustrial's acquisitions of Flos (2014), B&B Italia (2015), and Louis Poulsen (2018), has expanded its portfolio to include nine brands, such as Maxalto, Azucena, Arclinea, Fendi Casa, Audo, and Lumens. This consolidation has positioned the group as a significant entity in design-led, luxury interior products, operating in over 130 countries with ten manufacturing facilities. Lalonde, who assumed the CEO role in late 2021, brings extensive experience from luxury multi-brand companies like LVMH, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and SMCP. He acknowledges the transition from high fashion to interiors as a "leap of faith" but recognizes commonalities in heritage, craftsmanship, and the use of top designers. The company's brands collectively boast an extensive collection of works from celebrated designers, including modern classics by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, and contemporary pieces by Tobia Scarpa, Antonio Citterio, Philippe Starck, Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Piero Lissoni, among others. The group also actively seeks emerging design talent. A key aspect of Lalonde's strategy involves shifting the sales model to be more consumer-centric. Historically, over half of Design Holding's business relied on wholesale channels. To address this, the company has opened a 25,000 sq ft retail center at 135 Madison Avenue in New York. Designed in part by Lissoni & Partners, this flagship store provides distinct spaces for each brand, offering a comprehensive multibrand experience. This move aims to engage architects and designers, who significantly influence furniture sales (up to 45% in the US), by providing an immersive environment for both professionals and consumers to make informed decisions. Technological advancements are also integral to the strategy, with new e-commerce platforms and a configurator app being developed for individual brands. However, Lalonde emphasizes the importance of physical interaction with products, which the Madison Avenue store facilitates. The company is also exploring other innovative showcases, such as the West Coast model home at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills, which features B&B Italia products exclusively. Lalonde's role includes maintaining the distinct identity and character of each brand while fostering collaboration. He highlights the complimentary nature of the brands, noting, for example, the different design DNA between a B&B Italia sofa and a Maxalto sofa. Collaborative efforts among contract teams across brands are encouraged, especially for large projects. The group includes Italian brands (B&B Italia, Maxalto, Azucena, Flos, Arclinea, Fendi Casa), Danish brands (Louis Poulsen, Audo), and the San Francisco-based Lumens. Sustainability and ethical practices are central to Design Holding's environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) strategy. The company prioritizes product longevity, quality, ease of maintenance, and repairability. They also focus on sourcing sustainable and ethical supply chains, with benefits extending across all nine brands, such as sourcing wood from certified forests. The preservation of traditional manufacturing techniques and skills is also a priority, with investments in technical schools in Italy to ensure the continuity of craftspeople. The company is also targeting expansion into new markets, particularly Asia, where there is a large luxury market but a relatively nascent high-end design market. Plans are underway to open stores in China, as Design Holding aims to bring the enduring value of design to a global audience. #DesignHolding #LuxuryInteriors #FurnitureBrands #RetailStrategy #DanielLalonde #SustainableDesign #GlobalExpansion #DesignInnovation #Craftsmanship

This article highlights the enduring appeal of hardwood furniture amidst the emergence of new materials in design. While acknowledging innovations like bioplastics and vegan leathers, the piece emphasizes that skilled and creative woodworkers can transform traditional materials like teak, walnut, and oak into long-lasting, heirloom-quality pieces using only their tools and workshops. The focus then shifts to showcase several custom wood furniture makers in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) who excel in crafting these enduring designs. Five distinct pieces of furniture are presented, each demonstrating different styles, materials, and price points. The first featured item is Daniel Gruetter’s bar stool, crafted from red oak. When treated with iron oxide, the red oak develops a unique ruddy, patinated complexion. Gruetter combines this material with mortise, tenon, and an upholstered seat to create a bar stool designed to be an heirloom, priced at $2500. Next is Nicholas Hamilton Holmes’ Captain’s dining table, which features a rounded design and pin and tenon joints that playfully extend through a marble tabletop. Made from white oak, this table, starting from $3700, offers a commanding presence while maintaining a lighthearted aesthetic. Heidi Earnshaw’s Half Hathaway is the third item, a made-to-order piece distinguished by its minimalist appearance, bevelled legs, turned knobs, and straight-lined design. Despite its seemingly simple form, the piece incorporates complex joinery, showcasing the hidden craftsmanship. It is priced from $5400. Atelier Arking’s Lami dining chair is highlighted for its contrast between a rigid white ash frame and soft, pillowy leather upholstery. This chair, starting from $620, is designed to serve both as a functional everyday seating option and a striking statement piece. Finally, the article features Kate Duncan’s Ribbed Bed. Inspired by brutalist architecture, this bed, however, uses textured hardwood instead of cold concrete. It can also include optional details such as brass pulls and leather-veneered fronts, and is available from $18,000. Each piece underscores the timelessness and quality achievable through traditional woodworking techniques. #CustomFurniture #Woodworking #TorontoDesign #HeirloomQuality #ProductDesign #HardwoodFurniture #LocalMakers

John Webster, a former commercial oil and gas diver, has transitioned into a timber craftsman specializing in Yakisugi, an ancient Japanese method of charring timber. This technique, also known as 'burnt cedar,' offers a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional stained timber, particularly for achieving the popular black timber house look. Unlike staining, which can be harsh on wood, Yakisugi enhances the timber's natural properties, making it more resistant to insects, UV radiation, and water due to its hydrophobic qualities. Webster's journey into Yakisugi was born out of extensive experimentation. He spent approximately two and a half years in his garage developing the precise method for charring wood, a process that initially led to a serious incident involving smoke inhalation and a stay in Intensive Care. Following this, he implemented a smoke extractor system to safely continue his work. His dedication allowed him to master the technique, enabling him to produce charred timber in commercial volumes. Traditionally, Yakisugi utilizes Japanese cedar. However, Webster has found that thermally modified radiata pine from the New Zealand company Abodo Wood serves as an effective and sustainable local alternative. This adaptation makes the ancient Japanese technique more accessible and environmentally conscious in his region. Prior to his career as a timber craftsman, John Webster spent 12 years working as a commercial oil and gas diver. His work involved extended periods in confined spaces with limited human interaction, leading to unique psychological challenges. An accident that occurred at a depth of 220 meters resulted in PTSD symptoms, which he later recognized when a seemingly innocuous act like putting on his motorcycle helmet triggered a panic attack. Through resilience and recovery, Webster has overcome these challenges and can now comfortably engage in activities like scuba diving and riding his motorbike. This article highlights John Webster's remarkable career change from a high-pressure, hazardous profession to a specialized craft, emphasizing his innovative approach to traditional timber treatment and his ability to overcome personal adversity. His work with Yakisugi not only provides a sustainable and durable building material but also introduces an ancient, effective technique to a modern context. #Yakisugi #TimberCraftsmanship #JapaneseTechnique #SustainableBuilding #CareerChange #WoodTreatment #Entrepreneurship #PTSDRecovery