Built to last
In these disposable days when we throw away more than we keep, it is more important than ever to buy furniture which will stand the test of time.
Using everything from traditional woodworking skills to state of the art computer-aided design, Scottish-based furniture makers are turning blocks of ash, oak, walnut and poplar – often found or reclaimed – into beautiful, durable works combining form and function.
Glasgow-based Joachim King is originally from a family of boat-builders in the Finnish archipelago, so an understanding of woodwork and carpentry is in his blood.
Drawing on his experience of modern manufacturing processes, he strives to bring new and unusual forms to the functions of furniture, using computer-aided design (CAD) to produce intricate, high quality pieces with ergonomically shaped surfaces.
In his solid mahogany Stripe Chair he uses strips to allow the most to be made of the reclaimed wood boards. www.reformthenorm.co.uk
Inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and designed to complement your living space (not compete for your attention) Rowland Ziervogel of Wildwood Design makes furniture with an emphasis on the natural character and colours of hardwoods such as ash, walnut and oak.
Economy of design is central, whether in tables, sideboards, shelves or bedroom furniture. Items are usually made to order, not sold from stock. www.wildwoodshowroom.com
From his workshop in a converted barn in the Ayrshire countryside, Brian Baird handcrafts traditional and contemporary furniture inspired by the understated style of Arts and Crafts furniture and the perfectly balanced proportions of Japanese carpentry.
Marrying form and function with meticulous attention to detail, his style is defined by the natural beauty of the wood, mixing timbers as an integral part of the design. www.bbairdfurniture.co.uk
A second generation cabinet-maker, Dave McIlloney of Edinburgh Fine Furniture says: “I love the individuality of wood, how a distinctive pattern or burr can be made into a feature in a unique piece of furniture. Beautiful wood speaks for itself to a large extent, but it’s still exciting to turn it into something that didn't exist before.”
Based on a photograph of an American 18th century American demilune table and given an art deco look, this corner cabinet is made of ash and macassar ebony veneers. www.edinburghfinefurniture.com
Using only sustainable Scottish hard woods, John Galvin takes inspiration from natural form and free-flowing phenomena, giving his work a sense of movement and energy.
John was chosen to manufacture and install Craftscotland’s 2010 ‘Collect’ exhibition at London’s Saatchi Gallery in May. The main body and legs of this Neapolitan Sideboard are crafted in American black walnut, while the doors are formed from a blend of walnut, oak, ash, poplar and sapele solid wood laminations. www.johngalvindesign.com
A collaboration between cabinet-maker and designer Callum Robinson and architect Marisa Giannasi, Method Furniture produces timeless, graceful furniture from a workshop in the East Lothian countryside.
Combining experimental techniques with traditional cabinet-making skills, their designs are made by hand and to order, using sustainable materials and local craftspeople. www.methodfurniture.co.uk
Aberfeldy-based Angus Ross works primarily to commission, exploring the interaction between the user and object.
His blend of tradition and innovation results in elegant, enduring work. This drinks cabinet in oak and wenge opens to reveal a light skeletal structure supporting three glass shelves illuminated by internal light. www.angusross.co.uk
Sam Chinnery produces furniture characterised by simple forms, geometric shapes, curves and the play of light.
He says: “I feel that of all the materials wood is the most rewarding and exciting to work with. The virtually infinite variety of colours and textures combined with the strength, warmth and beauty of the wood inspires and influences my design more than anything else.” www.samchinnery.co.uk
Based in Anstruther, Fife, Brian Swankie specialises in the design, installation and project management of custom, hand-made, luxury fitted and free-standing kitchens, with solid hard wood or granite work tops.
Each project is designed around a client’s individual needs and lifestyle. Your kitchen may be the busiest and most practical room in the house, but there’s no reason it can’t also be the most beautiful. www.swankiecreations.co.uk/
EVENTS
Method Furniture previews its 2010 collection in an invite-only exhibition at a secret location in Edinburgh. Sat, June 19, E rsvp@methodfurniture.co.uk.
The Scottish Furniture Makers Association highlights work by its members at shows in Edinburgh (Sep 10-19, Greyfriars Kirk,) and Glasgow (Sep 21-26, Collins Gallery). www.scottishfurnituremakers.org.uk
