Adios 2020! As we ring in 2021, we reflect on the enormous quantity of work undertaken by Handkrafted makers last year…
While there are countless reasons we’re all pleased to say goodbye to 2020, it may be surprising to many that we undertook a record number of residential bespoke furniture commissions over the last 12 months and most of our makers have been busier than ever.
Despite the global turmoil and fallout from Coronavirus, it seems to us that increasing numbers of people are starting to recognise the importance of supporting local industry and artisans. We hope that this interest in custom-made furniture reflects a mindset shift highlighting the importance of buying local, and a change in behaviour away from reliance on the fast furniture movement. We know there’s a long way to go, but hopefully change is coming.
Unlike any other time in history, people across the globe have been put in a position where they’re required to stay at home for extended periods of time. We have seen a shift in people realising, perhaps many for the first time, how important it is for our homes to be comfortable and beautiful spaces where we can truly relax and enjoy ourselves. With this change in requirements has come an increase in the value people place on their furniture and home decor, which has meant an increasing number of residential commissions on Handkrafted.
Our annual holiday tradition involves selecting a sample of our favourite client commissions. While it’s a task we cherish, it’s not easy given there are so many wonderful stories behind each of the hundreds of pieces commissioned via our platform each year.
Here’s only a small section (in no particular order) of 2020 projects that highlight the varied styles and specialisations of our highly talented designer and maker community.
Rattan Bed
by Chris Shaw from The Brae Furniture Workshop in Ballarat, Victoria
Rattan and American Oak Bed. Beautifully styled here in the client’s home, she originally came to us with a vision for something reminiscent of the bent cane and rattan furniture handmade in SE Asia. Chris proved to be the perfect match with this stunning contemporary design that still nods to that heritage.
Art Deco Bedsides
by Ross Williamson from Lee Sinclair Design Co in Brisbane, Queensland
Tasmanian Blackwood and Stone. Exquisite design and craftsmanship by Ross.
Buffet & Side Tables
by Paradox Movement in Sydney, New South Wales
The client’s original brief was to work with a local maker to incorporate this incredibly beautiful Pink Onyx that they had sourced and used in their recent renovation. Complimented by Australian hardwoods, the result is absolutely stunning.
Rattan Wall Unit
by Ben Percy from Freshwater in Sydney’s Northern Beaches
Designed by Lara @outteracottahome. A stunning design expertly crafted by Ben. We’re massive fans of the sliding mechanism that hides a TV when not in use(hidden away in the image above).
Walnut & Gold Leaf Credenza
By Matthew William Parrish from Brookvale in Sydney’s Northern Beaches
We love this perfect 1:10 scale model that Matt made to help visualise the design prior to creating the final piece! Clearly the client was was equally impressed with their experience:
“Very, very impressed. Matthew took the brief and his advice improved it enormously. Beautiful, high quality, fine furniture craftsmanship. Excellent communication and a perfect result. Thank you Matthew for your expertise, you have made a unique piece that will last a lifetime or more…”
Floating Bed
By Elliot Holdstock of Studio Elliot in Sydney, New South Wales
Made from Wormy Chestnut, this king bed incorporates inbuilt bedsides. The clients were thrilled with the result..
“…Elliot proved to be more than we’d hoped for. He walked through every step with us (from measuring, design collaboration, selecting the wood, etc) and kept us up to date with progress and questions. We even had a visit to his shop halfway through the process to see the bed. Reliable, professional, quality, art. He did what he said he was going to do, and when he said he’d do it. A breath of fresh air! This bed has always been a dream of ours, and Elliot made it happen.”
Wembley Sideboard
By Nathan Day Design in Perth, Western Australia
A distinctly mid-century inspired design with impeccable detailing, including finger-jointed drawers and integrated oak handles.
“Becoming” Dresser
By Remy Tramoy from Melbourne, Victoria
The name of this design, “Becoming”, refers to the time in Remy’s life that the making of this piece coincided with—his entry into parenthood when he welcomed twins into the world.
This one was commissioned in Vic Ash and delivered to an exceptionally pleased client in Sydney, her feedback speaks volumes about the care and passion that Remy puts into his work:
“The dresser is the most beautiful piece of furniture I could imagine. It looks absolutely stunning and feels sublime to the touch. It is for my bedroom, but I think I should display it in the middle of my living area!! It has changed the whole feel of my bedroom. Remy was wonderful to work with. He was completely engaged, and was regularly in touch with me about progress with photos, videos, phone calls. He was very responsive to all my concerns and questions. I will definitely commission another piece from him.”
Four Poster Bed
By Paradox Movement in Sydney, New South Wales
This restrained and minimalist design really highlights the beauty and grain of the American Walnut. Simple yet very refined.
Patt Spratt Armchair & Coffee Table
By David Cummins from Brisbane, Queensland
David has comprehensively documented the “making of” these pieces on his Instagram. We’d recommend scrolling through his feed for a wonderful perspective into the artistry and craft involved in the production of this project.
Classic Oak Desk
By Julian McCartney of Glencross Furniture in Melbourne, Victoria
This client’s original brief stated a desire for this newly commissioned desk to tie in and compliment an existing antique desk in the same room. Julian noted that the design is “influenced by post-war era industrial office decor which reflected a gradual shift away from embellishment towards more refined modernist ideas. Softened edge profiles and tapered feet offer tactile surfaces and elegance to solid proportions.”
Dining Table
By Nick Pedulla of Pedulla Studio in Sydney’s Northern Beaches
10 seater American Oak dining table, commissioned by @dieppedesign
Feel like you’re ready to bring your own idea to life? Post a brief to let us know what you would like made and we’ll connect you with a selection of the most suited makers.
About Handkrafted:
Handkrafted is a community marketplace connecting people with passionate makers to commission bespoke furniture and lighting. We have brought together hundreds of Australian independent, bespoke craftspeople and artisans who specialise in producing high quality, sustainably made pieces.
Our makers can help you realise your own idea or collaborate with you on a new design. Many also feature a range of original designs that can be made to order or customised to suit your specific needs. Whichever option you choose, we’re here to help make it happen. Support local makers and kick-start your own project today.
