A philosophy of celebration

Saturday 30th September 2023

Hello friends,

In a world full of commodities, I seek a celebration.

I seek a celebration of the natural beauty of wood. Grains might be subtle or strong, from gently meandering to truly haphazard. And then there is colour. From the bright tones of a wood such as sycamore, moving through golds and burnt umbers of mature ash, to the rich chocolate-browns found in fumed oak or walnut. Patterns and textures that lie hidden in the wood, drawn out to a sparkle only when polished

I seek a celebration of the cabinetmaker's art. Drawers to be individually made and craftsman-fitted. Doors to close with a clunk or a click. Gentle, pleasing, and not too heavy. Joinery sometimes gentle highlighted, at other times, construction that is clean and concealed

I seek a celebration of contemporary design. Lines that are crisp and clean. Deliberately chosen proportions, smart chamfers and subtle curves. Pieces with the quiet, classical elegance found in a bespoke suit or a pair of Oxford brogues.  Pieces that sit quietly (but not too quietly) in a room, and command, rather than demand, attention.

I seek a celebration of longevity. In a society where newest is best but soon thrown out, my pieces are designed and finished to develop patina. Improve with age. The continuation of a cabinetmaking tradition that has been going on for centuries, to make a piece that will last for years to come. 

I seek to make furniture that is not a commodity. Not utilitarian. A celebration of simplicity but not utilitarian starkness. Every facet with something to appreciate. A rich simplicity perhaps?

In a world full of commodities I seek, unashamedly, a celebration.

Stay sharp friends,

~sh

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