Austin Friar Yearbook 2017

AUSTIN FRIAR 2017

The Furniture Makers’ Company the furnishing industry’s charity

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We are The Furniture Makers’ Company,

future; and of course, supporting the people

the dedicated charity for the UK furnishing

who are the beating heart of our industry,

industry and a City of London livery company.

when they are in need of help.

Welcome to our yearbook, celebrating our activities during the year 2016-17.

Despite challenges on the domestic and world stage, we’ve achieved so much and built huge

Our remit is to support and nurture our

momentum, all with the loyal and generous

industry by inspiring excellence in design

support of our members and our industry. We

and manufacture; creating education

look forward to the coming year, to serve our

opportunities to foster young talent for the

industry with commitment and pride.

INTRODUCTION

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SUPPORT

12 / 17

EDUCATION

18 / 31

EXCELLENCE

32 / 63

MEMBERSHIP

64 / 81

C O N T E N TS

WE ARE THE FURNISHING INDUSTRY’S CHARITY WE ARE HERE FOR YOU AND YOUR INDUSTRY

/ Trinetic Chair, Boss Design

Romo Fabrics

2/ 3

Hypnos master craftsman

Clarissa Hulse

Young & Norgate Callista range by Clarissa Hulse for Harlequin

William Chair by Mark Gabbertas

INTRODUCTION

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THE MASTER Ben Burbidge, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company 2016-17

It has been a unique and thoroughly enjoyable

was made all the more special when we

During the year, we have finalised and

year as Master of our wonderful livery company.

were greeted so warmly by so many fellow

agreed our strategic plan for the next four

Experiencing the elaborate ceremony

members at the finishing line for a weekend

years, committing to paper the ambitions we

and splendid halls of the City of London

of discovery in and around Bordeaux.

collectively have to expand our charitable

is a massive privilege. To represent such a

activities and really cement ourselves as the

forward-looking and dynamic company in the

To see first-hand a good number of the

livery world makes it all the more an honour.

colleges and universities we support with

furnishing industry’s charity.

bursaries really brought home the value

We continue to make strides in attracting

The Furniture Makers’ Company is in good

we add to training future recruits for our

new and engaged members, both individual

heart and much progress has been made in a

industry. Then to see so many of them

and corporate, and our introduction event

number of important areas during the past 12

proudly exhibiting their work at our packed

in February demonstrated that we all know

months.

Hall in September, meeting with enthusiastic

someone who recognises the privilege of

and encouraging members and industry

being invited to join us. We must all continue

leaders, was the icing on the cake.

to look out for like-minded people who will

The London to Bordeaux Bike Ride stands out as a great example of liverymen and

add to our collective body.

supporters of all ages and experience

It was a great honour to invest The Lord

taking on a significant challenge in order to

Kirkham CVO as our new Charity President

I would like to wish the Senior Warden Tony

raise much needed funds for our growing

at the Royal Charter Dinner in October. I am

Smart every success in his forthcoming year as

charitable activities. What fun we had in the

sure he will be a charismatic figurehead for

Master, and hope he finds it as enjoyable and

process of raising £68,000! The pleasure

our organisation in the coming years.

fulfilling as I have.

INTRODUCTION

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MASTER ELECT Dr Tony Smart MBE, Master Elect of The Furniture Makers’ Company 2017-18

Most of my career was devoted to working

with students, schools, colleges and

Speaking as a former apprentice and furniture

in the radar sector of the electronic industry,

universities.

student myself, there are multiple routes into

starting in engineering , then marketing.

any industry and forging a successful career As a former member and chairman of the

doesn’t necessarily start with a degree.

In 1999 I traded electronics for furniture

Education and Training and the Young

when I joined Rycotewood, later being

Furniture Makers committees, I’ve taken great

The work that the Company has done to

appointed Assistant Principal at the Oxford

pleasure in contributing to the development

support the new Level 2 Apprenticeship

College. This combined what would become

of our growing education programme. And

Standards, with Level 3 in the pipeline,

two great passions, furniture and education,

it thrills me that in my coming year as Master

couldn’t come at a more apt time with the

and was one of my reasons for joining The

our unmissable Young Furniture Makers

Apprenticeship Levy coming into effect and

Furniture Makers’ Company as a freeman in

exhibition will be larger than ever.

the launch of our new Apprentice Award.

As the industry changes and embraces modern

Education is at the heart of all that we do. Only

Looking back at the last 15 years, I’m

technology, we need talented young people

by nurturing and supporting young people

immensely proud of the progress we have

to take furniture design and manufacture

throughout their studies will they attain the

made, based on the firm foundations laid

forward in order to compete with the rest of

skills and levels of excellence required to forge

down by Past Masters, liverymen and

the world.

long and successful careers, and contribute to

2002.

freemen.

a successful industry recognised by our Guild However, the widening skills gap remains

Marks and awards.

We now have our own hall, we attained a

a threat to our great industry, and our

Royal Charter in 2013, and we have made

continuous investment in bursaries, prizes,

My main objective for my year as Master is to

exceptional progress in all three of our core

seminars, tours, partnerships and programmes

continue to promote our industry and make it

activities: support, excellence and education. I

is more important than ever to entice talent

attractive to young people. After all, they are

am particularly pleased with our involvement

into the industry.

the future of our industry.

INTRODUCTION

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Supporting our industry through excellence, education and support

By The Lord Kirkham CVO, Charity President Welcome to the Austin Friar 2017, the

I would particularly like to congratulate the

• Blue Crush Communications

yearbook for The Furniture Maker’s Company. I

Master Ben Burbidge on completing his

• Panaz

am both delighted and honoured to meet you on

470-mile, five-day bike ride from Guildhall

• Ercol

these pages in my new role as Charity President.

to Bordeaux in September. The 22 members

• and CPS Wales

and supporters of the Company who took I have devoted my life to this exceptional

part raised a staggering total of £68,000

Thank you all. Your support is appreciated

industry. In fact, I find I can’t keep away. It’s a

(and I bet they were staggering). Well done!

more than you might know.

Makers’ Company, I am totally committed to

I’d also like to remind you all about our

The future holds even more chances for

ensuring it is an industry that prospers in the

Royal Charter Appeal to fund scholarships

you to help. Damian Walters, CEO of

UK for decades and indeed centuries to come.

and bursaries – needed more than ever in

the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom

an environment where the cost of higher

and Bathroom Installation, plans to climb

education continues to escalate.

Everest in May, aiming to raise an amazing

huge part of who I am and, like The Furniture

As you know, we are the British furnishing industry’s only dedicated charity, with a remit to: • encourage the highest standards in

£100,000 for us. Please support Damian, We are creating opportunities that can make

you’ll find details on our website or simply

a crucial difference to a young person’s

contact our office.

every aspect of furniture design,

chance of continuing their education and are

manufacture and sales, recognising

a real investment in the future of the British

There are also many other opportunities to

quality with the award of our coveted

furnishing industry. The Royal Charter

get involved with the charity. In addition

Guild Marks

Scholarships and Bursaries are awarded

to becoming a member, you can support

to promising and deserving students to

fundraising events in your own region. With

help equip them to become our industry’s

regional committees in the South, South

with grants, training and mentoring to

leaders, innovators, craftspeople and the

West, North East, North West and Yorkshire

foster talent and assure the future of

movers and shakers of the future.

& Central, we have most of the country

• support students and young people

the industry • and, importantly, to provide support and financial assistance to those in need

covered, so please do lend a hand in your I would like to thank all the individuals and

area. I’ll certainly be supporting the North

companies which donated to this year’s

just as much as I can.

Royal Charter Appeal including:

who are working in the industry or have worked for it in the past.

Finally, I implore all of you to remind your • CCUK

employees that The Furniture Makers’

• KI

Company is here for them, and can support

All this vital work is made possible by

• Community Playthings

them in times of need. Life can throw

fundraising events, which you very

• Fishpools

difficult challenges to us all and we’re proud

generously support.

• Chimera Insurance

to be able to lend a helping hand.

INTRODUCTION

Jan Turner, Paul Stackhouse, Baroness Warsi, Master Ben Burbidge, Fara Butt, Jonny Westbrooke and Jessica Alexander at the first Curry Night fundraiser

Northern Big Shots - great fun and great fundraising

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FUNDRAISING ACROSS THE COUNTRY Our head office is located at Furniture

Northern Big Shots, which was

Makers’ Hall in London, in the centre of the

organised by Victor Giannandrea,

City of London. With regular events such

raised £17,000.

as black-tie dinners, visits and admission ceremonies, there are always great things

• Yorkshire and Central Region,

going on for everyone involved in furnishing

chaired by Fara Butt of Shire Beds,

who wants to help with our fundraising.

includes Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire Nottinghamshire and

However, the industry spreads far and wide The Master strikes again at the Sealy Cup five-a-side football tournament

Rutland.

across the country, as we have so many members and supporters who want to get

It holds hold an annual Curry Night which

involved and support us.

last year raised £1,500, attended by guest speaker Baroness Warsi. The next event

Regional activity, such as fundraising events,

is in May at the famous Aakash Restaurant

supporting local students and universities,

in West Yorkshire.

and providing support to people who need our help, means we can provide a more

• South West region, chaired by

comprehensive service as the charity for the

Past Master Paul von der Heyde,

whole of the UK furnishing industry.

includes Cornwall, Dorset, Devon, Gloucestershire and Somerset

We have five regions: • South region, chaired by • North East region, chaired by Niall

Past Master Peter Keen of

Head-Rapson of McDaniel & Co,

Hypnos, includes Berkshire,

includes Northumberland, Tyne and

Buckinghamshire, Hampshire,

Wear and County Durham.

Oxfordshire and Wiltshire.

• North West region, chaired by Jan

The combined reach and influence of this

Turner of AKA PR, includes Cumbria,

regional network means we can harness

Lancashire, Greater Manchester,

greater involvement across the furnishing

Merseyside and Cheshire. The ball the

industry, strengthening our fundraising

region recently organised raised more

income and enabling us to continue our

than £4,000.

role in supporting our industry.

INTRODUCTION

Kenneth at home with his wife

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SUPPORT HELPING PEOPLE FROM OUR INDUSTRY There are over 250,000 people currently

hospital visits, or even a respite break. Every

working within the UK furnishing industry

story is different and we look at each one with

and many more who are now retired. Set

care and consideration.

up over 100 years ago, our charity is here to support people and their families - this

It’s our opportunity to say how much we

great industry would not have prospered and

appreciate the contribution people have

grown without them.

made to the furnishing industry during brighter times.

None of us know what life might bring our way, and those unexpected events can be so

People are what make an industry, and we’re

challenging, whether it’s a health issue or

proud to offer our support.

cashflow problem.

Tell your friends and colleagues about us The grants we provide could be for essential

– one day we may well be just the helping

house repairs, help with the cost of making

hand they need.

SUPPORT

A Sofologist sets up a new sofa

WHY SUPPORTING PEOPLE MATTERS

“At Sofology we believe that behind any

Many people are based in our warehouses

exceptional team are exceptional people, so

where the work is, without doubt, hard

it’s a key part of our business plan to nurture

graft. We know that sofas are heavy, so after

and strengthen the talents, skills and abilities

extensive training in how to lift and move

of our Sofologists.

heavy objects, we make sure we look after everyone by offering easy access to medical

My job is to drive our people strategy in

care, including physiotherapy and mental

conjunction with our business goals – so I

health care through our Westfield health

want to make our company a great place to

provider.

work, motivating and inspiring our people to Alyson Fadil is People Director at Sofology,

achieve.

a company that puts its people at the very heart of what they do.

We’re just launching a programme working with local doctors to give everyone an annual

Sofology was started by the Tyldesley family

‘MOT’ health check, and through our links

(as C S Lounge Suites) and our current Chief

with the Retail Trust, everyone has access to

Executive Officer, Jason Tyldesley, has been

counselling when they need it.

part of the company from a young age. Jason developed the business nationally and there

Developing our people to give them a

are now 35 retail stores with more growth in

career path is a major part of what we do.

the pipeline. We have six distribution centres

Our Sofology Academy provides extensive

and employ over 1,000 people.

specialist training in every area of the

14 / 15

Health & Safety are paramount at Sofology

business, from apprentices and NVQs, to professional development and leadership

Alyson Fadil, People Director at Sofology

programmes.

We’ve seen a massive shortage in upholstery skills – so we set up a college with the North Lancs Training Group to train new talent in this highly skilled trade.

I hadn’t known about The Furniture Makers’ Company until recently and was delighted to discover that any of our employees and retirees are able to apply to the Company for financial help in a time of need or when they have a problem.

Any one of us can fall on hard times, so it means a lot to know that we can call on this support. I’ll be spreading the word!”

SUPPORT

HOW WE LEND A HELPING HAND Real people are at the heart of our industry

Ann Ann’s husband Ron spent his entire career

several operations, Ron passed away but

working for Utility Furnishings in Edmonton.

Ann was relieved to know that our support

Deaf since the age of seven following

would continue, especially as her own health

meningitis, Ron went to a special school where

was beginning to deteriorate. She now has

woodwork was his passion. He began work

curvature of the spine and with our help, she

with the company as soon as he left school.

was able to buy an adjustable bed so she can

and we’re proud to be able to help when

have a good night’s rest.

someone is in need. Our charity was set up

The couple met when Ann was only 15,

over 100 years ago to help people in times

getting engaged when she reached 16. She

Although housebound and in chronic pain,

of hardship, with one-off grants, services,

was able to help Ron communicate, telling him

Ann keeps cheerful with the help of her

time and support. Here are just four stories

what people were saying and helping him to

faithful companion, cat Tiddles, and loving

about people who have benefitted from

follow the plot when they went to see a film.

and supportive family and friends.

When Ron’s health began to deteriorate and

“I like to remember every day all the ways

he could no longer work, our charity was

in which I am lucky,” she says. “Having The

able to help with a small regular grant which

Furniture Makers’ Company as one of my friends

was a huge relief to the couple. Sadly, after

means a lot to me.”

your generosity.

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Terry

“I really appreciate how The Furniture

Terry spent his entire working life in furniture

continues to help me,” says Terry. “I loved my

Kenneth had a long career with Multiyork

and carpet sales, ending his career at Jarrolds

job and am still interested in the furnishing

as a manager for one of its stores. He talks

in Norwich after 51 years in the industry.

trade - I have a collection of sales brochures

proudly of the way he revolutionised the

dating back to before World War II.”

fabric cutting process at his branch and

Makers’ Company keeps in touch with me and

Kenneth

He started out in Stratford, London where he

passed on the skills to the younger workers

met and married his wife Doris. After National

who joined. His passion and knowledge

Service, he returned to Stratford but was attacked and robbed one evening as he made

Peggy

for the craft and our industry is abundantly clear.

his way to the bank with the day’s takings,

Peggy lives with her daughter Sharon and dog

leaving him badly shaken. His employers

Joey in their cosy bungalow. Sharon, who has

He recently contracted bowel cancer and

found Terry a job with Courts in Norwich and

mental health problems, is dependent on her

underwent chemotherapy which was

helped the family to relocate.

mother, and Peggy’s husband, also called Ron,

successful - but unfortunately Kenneth lost

died 12 years ago, at the age of 83.

the feeling in his hands and feet.

in a peaceful part of Norfolk. He counts himself

Peggy had worked at Evans Furniture in High

This meant he had to give up his driving job

as almost a local, having spent years visiting

Wycombe and so qualified for a small annuity

which was essential to supplement his and

customers in their homes all over the county

from our charity. But when she recently

his wife’s basic pensions.

to measure up for carpets. He and Doris raised

received a large bill for essential plumbing

three children there and although Doris has now

work she was very worried.

Fifty years on and Terry is delighted to be living

sadly passed away, Terry is surrounded by his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

While he was working Terry was a regular

We were able to give them a one-off grant of £1,000 to help the couple catch up

“We didn’t know where to turn,” she says,

on bills. They now continue to receive a

“until we remembered The Furniture Makers’

regular annuity from us.

Company.”

contributor to our charity and was very

“I felt so alone. The grant was a lifeline

grateful when we, in turn, were able to help

We were able to help settle the bill and we

at an extremely hard time, and it’s such a

him with a grant to meet the cost of Doris’

also visited Peggy and her daughter at home

relief to have the annuity. It’s great to have

funeral. We also continue to support him with

to make sure they were comfortable.

an organisation to turn to for help.”

a small regular grant.

SUPPORT

Warren Bentley, The Edward Barnsley Workshop

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EDUCATION DEVELOPING YOUNG SKILLS AND TALENT FOR A THRIVING FUTURE At The Furniture Makers’ Company we are

This ranges from awarding scholarships and

passionate about building firm foundations for

bursaries to universities and colleges across

the future for our industry. We have a skills

the country, to developing partnerships where

gap as older workers reach retirement and

industry and students work together on

many crafts are no longer taught in schools

specific projects, seminars and tours.

and colleges.

There is sponsorship of many prizes to This means one of our key challenges is to

reward excellent work from schoolchildren to

attract young people to our industry. We

students, plus our Royal Charter Scholarships

actively create opportunities for young people

for MAs, and a development programme to

to learn and train, to follow the example of

nurture young professionals in the first steps

successful designers and manufacturers, and

of their careers.

to aspire to excellence in everything they do.

Our annual Young Furniture Makers We are lucky enough to have individual

exhibition brings together many of these

members and a large number of companies

projects and initiatives, showcasing what

which really do care about educating for

highly talented people can do when given the

the future and want to be involved. Our

opportunity. Our young members are vital

fundraising team works hard to maximise this

ambassadors for the furnishing industry and

involvement, raising funds to support our

we are proud to support them as they go out

extensive education programme.

into the world.

E D U C AT I O N

WHY EDUCATION MATTERS

“It was the late artist and philanthropist

an understanding of the changing face of the

Cecil Michaelis who founded Rycote School

furnishing industry.

to provide craft training for young people in 1938, in the small town of Thame in

Our students acquire core skills by working

Oxfordshire. A keen supporter of the Arts

with traditional hand tools as well as with

and Crafts, he was concerned that valuable

woodwork machinery. Creativity can be

skills were in danger of being lost. Education

expressed through freehand drawing

mattered to him very much indeed.

and then refined and developed using

Freeman Drew Smith has been a Lecturer

CAD software. Our theory teaching arms

at Rycotewood Furniture Centre in Oxford

By 2004, we had grown and moved into

students with an in-depth knowledge of

since 2004.

the heart of the historic city of Oxford to

timber technologies, furniture’s history

establish a new era in furniture design and

and, importantly, its future. We want

craft education as the Rycotewood Furniture

them to have a passion for the traditions of

Centre, part of pioneering education group

cabinetmaking and to look at new ways of

Activate Learning.

doing things.

Today we continue with Cecil’s original aim,

The furniture industry is vast and

giving students the opportunity to develop a

multifaceted: from small workshops catering

wide range of skills that respect the ideals of

for the bespoke customer through to large

the Arts and Crafts movement, combined with

factories mass producing pieces for the

20 / 21

domestic and contract market. So as a college it is vital that we have close links to industry: our students make regular visits to companies’ workshops and in return we invite employers to meet the students.

Some of our students work on projects with manufacturers, as part of The Furniture Makers’ Company’s industry partnerships programme. It’s all about making our curriculum industry-relevant.

Craft education has many challenges at this point in time. The perception in schools that craft is too costly and irrelevant in the 21st

So our aim today is just as it was in 1938 -

century has prompted the disintegration of

to provide a passionate workforce with

courses at Further and Higher Education

skills that are relevant to today’s furnishing

levels. And yet this is at a time when the

industry. Education still matters – and we feel

demand for skilled furniture makers increases

our founder, Cecil Michaelis, would definitely

year on year.

approve.“

E D U C AT I O N

Our annual Young Furniture Makers (YFM) exhibition, sponsored by Axminster Tools & Machinery, is an exciting forum for students at all levels - from GCSE through to post graduate and young professional to show their work to top industry companies. Numerous awards and prizes are presented, including our Young Furniture Makers Bespoke, Design and Innovation Awards, School Design Prizes, industry partnership awards, and the Blum Best in Show Prize.

All students are welcome to join our Young Furniture Makers group.

It’s free and gives them the opportunity to access our members, network and learn on our dedicated Facebook page, and get involved in the events and seminars created especially for them.

Christian Felsner Industry Partnership - KI with RCA and Imperial

Philipp Stummer Mini Maestro, Royal Charter Bursary recipient – Warwickshire College. First place YFM Design Award sponsored by Crofts & Assinder and winner of the Blum Best in Show Prize

Camaron Heaton Coffee Table, Royal Charter Bursary recipient – Chichester College

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Charles Richards Standing Lamp, Royal Charter Scholarship recipient - The RCA

James Whittam Chair for Toynbee Hall, Royal Charter Bursary recipient – The CASS, London Met

Alice Jenkins The Telephone Table, School Design Prize - The Blue School

Jan Waterston Velo Rocking Stool, Royal Charter Bursary recipient – and Industry Partnership – City of Oxford College and Hands. First place YFM Bespoke Award sponsored by Festool

William Keenlyside The Pour Man’s Stool, Royal Charter Bursary recipient – Kingston University.

First place YFM Innovation Award sponsored

by Crofts & Assinder

Muirhead Leather Design Prize Winner - Lucy Burgess British Wildlife Manchester Metropolitan University

E D U C AT I O N

Hannah Thompson Royal Charter Bursary recipient - Chichester College

Ella Lemaire Modular Shelving, Wallingford School, Oxfordshire - Joint Winner School Design Competition, sponsored by B&Q Homefit

James Batstone Royal Charter Scholarship recipient - The RCA

Jennifer Finnigan Wood and Wire Bedside Table, Third Place YFM Bespoke Award sponsored by Festool - Cardiff School of Art and Design at Cardiff Metropolitan University

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Susan Salkeld Royal Charter Bursary recipient - Wendy Shorter Interiors

Hayden Davies, Junior Warden, left, with DFS Poster Competition winner Dominic Longhorn

Oliver Goldie Royal Charter Scholarship recipient, The CASS, London Met

E D U C AT I O N

School Design Prize joint winner Sebastian Banwell from Tonbridge School

School Poster Competition

School Design Prize

Making schoolchildren aware of careers in the

Now in its fourth year, this programme

Furniture Makers exhibition, which gives

furnishing industry is vital – if we can light the

reaches out to students at secondary school

them a unique opportunity to network and

spark of interest early on, children can choose

who are studying GCSE and AS Level

show their work.

relevant subjects at GCSE and onwards to help

Design & Technology.

them forge a career in the industry.

As a recognised and respected award-giving body, our School Design Prize is a fantastic accolade on a student’s CV. Students are also invited to take part in our annual Young

This year there was a special additional We aim to build the foundations of

prize, sponsored by B&Q, for a grant

Each year we hold a design competition,

confidence and aspiration in young people,

towards design and technology materials

sponsored by DFS, where schoolchildren are

raising awareness and inspiring them to

or a school trip.

invited to create an exciting, eye-catching poster

consider careers in the furnishing industry.

that describes possible careers in furnishing.

Ella Lemaire from Wallingford School, So far almost 2,500 prizes of the book

Oxfordshire and Sebastian Banwell from

This year’s winner was Dominic Longhorn

Modern British Furniture – design since

Tonbridge School in Kent were joint prize

from St Ambrose College in Manchester, who

1945 by Lesley Jackson have been awarded

winners for their schools.

spent the day with the DFS design studio,

to design students, together with a prize

Gratterpalm, to bring his design to reality.

certificate.

26 / 27

Winners of the 2016 KI Award Christina Peterson, left, and Christian Felsner, right, with Jonathan Hindle, Past Master and Group Managing Director of KI EMEA

Jamie Gilhirst, centre, winner of the London School of Economics competition

Student tour

Seminars

Competitions

Every year we gather together a group of more

We run a series of seminars during the

In addition to the prizes we award at our Young

than 30 students from colleges and universities

year, ranging from a focus on topics such as

Furniture Makers exhibition, we are lucky

all over the UK and spend three days roaming

intellectual property, to starting a business or

enough to have some exciting competitions

the North West in a coach, visiting some of the

finding a job within the furnishing industry,

underway to encourage new talent.

top companies in the furnishing industry.

followed by the chance to network over drinks or dinner.

New this year is the KI Award, sponsored by

Our hosts this year were Furniture Village,

Corporate Member KI, for students whose

Knightsbridge, Burgess Beds, Vitafoam,

projects could help improve the product

CD UK and Axminster, while power tool

development or production process, creating

manufacturer and tour sponsor Festool

better working or learning environments in

provided a demonstration of its tools at the

the future.

Axminster store in Warrington.

Christian Felsner and Christina Petersen, Students gained an insight into many different

both undertaking the joint Royal College

aspects of the industry, from design and

of Art/Imperial College Innovation Design

manufacturing through to marketing and retail, helping them to see the many different

Students visit Knightsbridge

directions they could follow.

E D U C AT I O N

Engineering double masters course, won ÂŁ1,000 each for their final projects and

exhibited during London Design Week and at the Young Furniture Makers exhibition.

Abigail Butler, Royal Charter Scholarship recipient, The CASS/London Met

Jonathan Hindle, Group Managing Director of KI EMEA, said: “The future of the UK furnishing industry is dependent on nurturing skills and innovation. The KI Award gives us an opportunity to directly support talented individuals undertaking a worldleading course that combines the rigorous discipline of engineering with the creative problemsolving fundamental to good design.”

We also held a competition in collaboration with the London School of Economics for Young Furniture Makers to design three pieces of furniture for the university’s Multicultural Faith Centre.

Students had to design a ceremonial table, lectern and side table within an overall production budget of £8,500. Young Furniture Maker Jamie Gilchrist was thrilled to win the prize: “I’m extremely grateful to have had the chance to design for an institution and setting of such consequence at this stage of my career.”

The Skolnik Prize was created by bespoke furniture maker Stephen Skolnik to reward first-year students at The Cass/London Metropolitan University for work that shows the best original thinking and the most commitment during the year.

Houghton and Diana Moon.

Royal Charter Scholarships

Stephen said: “I remember waiting until I

With the ever-increasing cost of tuition

Every year we hold a Royal Charter Dinner

had enough money to buy the best tools and

fees, grants, bursaries and scholarships are

and charity appeal to commemorate the

equipment, and I am delighted if this prize

appreciated more than ever. They can make

Company being issued with a Royal Charter

helps students today to do the same.”

a huge difference to the recipient and in

by Her Majesty the Queen in 2013. The

This year the prizes went to Ella Merriman, Ed

many cases, enable a student who otherwise would not have the chance, to continue their education.

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appeal raises funds that enable us to provide

In addition to a scholarship, students automatically

small companies involved in bespoke furniture-

Royal Charter Scholarships and Bursaries.

become Young Furniture Maker members and

making to the large manufacturers using the

are included on the long list for exhibiting their

latest automated production methods.

We created a giving circle of Education

work at the Young Furniture Makers exhibition.

Champions drawn from leading

They also have priority booking for the annual

Companies can now apply to take on

furnishing companies B&Q, Blue Crush

student tour, and receive mentoring and support

apprentices using these new standards.

Communications, Community Playthings,

from a matched professional within the industry.

The off-the-job training and academic

Ercol, Furniture Village, BiKBBI, KI Europe,

portions of the standards can be provided

NICEIC, Panaz and Parker Knoll.

Apprenticeships

by a college or training provider on a day or

and implement our Royal Charter Scholarships

The furnishing industry has developed 11 new

The industry has now requested a new set of

and Bursaries to support promising young

Level 2 Apprenticeship Standards under the

Level 3 standards to provide progression from

graduates while studying for an MA or MSc,

Government’s Trailblazer initiative. They were

Level 2 and for school leavers who meet the

preparing them to become the future leaders,

developed by the industry for the industry

entry requirements for the higher level.

craftsmen and innovators of our industry.

as prescribed under the new Government

They have helped us to drive the fundraising

schemes for Apprenticeships.

This year the scholarships were awarded to

block release basis.

To celebrate the achievements of apprentices across the UK we have launched an award for

Oliver Goldie and Abigail Butler, left, from

We fully support this initiative which has

the Apprentice of the Year, which is open to

CASS/London Metropolitan University, and

taken over a year of dedicated work from all

anyone studying or working towards a retail,

Charles Richards and James Batstone from the

sectors of our industry. The result is a set of

manufacture or service apprenticeship at a UK

Royal College of Art. See Oliver, Charles and

new standards at Level 2, which together with

furnishing company. The first award will be

James on pages 22-25.

assessment criteria will meet the needs of both

made in 2017.

E D U C AT I O N

Bucks University Student, Sebiha Macit’s prize winning chair, right, for Ercol

Industry partnerships For a student, nothing can beat practical hands-on experience with a company in the furnishing industry. Each year we run a series of industry partnerships, pairing a company with students at colleges and universities to give them the chance to learn while working on a live project.

Top industry names support us in these projects, including Ercol, Hands, Gordon Russell, KI Europe and Willis & Gambier.

Sebiha Macit won the Ercol/Bucks New Harry Priest Industry Partnership - De Montfort University with Willis & Gambier (Furniture Design Competition)

University prize, gaining the chance to design a chair that could be manufactured

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The 2016 YPIE group visiting Muirhead Leather: from the left, Pav Chahal, Colin Wade, MD of Muirhead, Katie Holden, Emily Dwyer, Meisha-Grace Nicely, Thomas Firth, Craig Thurston and Andrew Blair, Muirhead, a member of the 2015 YPIE group

at Ercol’s factory in Princes Risborough, while Sam Bolt won the partnership between Hands/Gordon Russell and City of Oxford College.

Other grants Several of the colleges and universities we

Developing young professionals We created our unique and intensive Young Professionals Industry Experience (YPIE) to answer a real need to develop the future leaders of the industry.

work with benefit from small grants we give to help students with the cost of materials for

Sponsored by The January Furniture Show

their final year work.

and supported by many companies involved with the furnishing industry, this three-

Warren Bentley (pictured on page 18) is

week long course is now in its fourth year

studying at the Edward Barnsley Workshop

with a new programme beginning in June.

after receiving The Olwen and Edwin Powell

Some of the companies the group will visit

Award, which will support him for two years

include Axminster, Blum UK, DFS, Ercol,

of training.

Fishpools, Howdens and Hypnos.

E D U C AT I O N

The group now meets regularly to network and address challenges for the industry, with seminars and a dinner held at Furniture Makers’ Hall, bringing them together with other Young Furniture Makers and alumni of previous YPIE courses.

Boss Design

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EXCELLENCE INSPIRING AND PROMOTING OUR INDUSTRY We have a great deal to be proud of within

other awards are judged by independent

the UK furnishing industry. Our strengths

experts from the world of furnishing, the

in design and manufacturing are second to

media and creative industries. The Awards

none, with the finest craftsmen, designers and

bring credibility and prestige to their

manufacturers producing work of integrity

holders, helping to build their brands both

that competes on the world stage.

at home and abroad through visibility at major exhibitions such as Inspired, 100%

We reward this excellence with our Guild

Design and Clerkenwell Design Week.

Marks and Awards, which recognise the

Having a Design Guild Mark is special for

highest possible standards achieved by a

designers and their manufacturers.

diverse range of talented individuals and companies, from lone craftsmen to volume

In a competitive and uncertain world, we

designers and manufacturers.

are proud to champion an industry where excellence is sought after and achieved so

More than simply accolades, these and

passionately.

E XC E L L E N C E

Furniture designed by James UK

WHY EXCELLENCE MATTERS

“The pursuit of excellence is enshrined as

respond to the changing trade conditions the

a guiding principle for successful British

UK is set to go through over the next few years.

industries. Excellence delivers success

It is excellence that will develop reputation at

and the best companies make excellence

home and abroad, making ‘designed and made

matter at all levels of their businesses –

in Britain’ a stronger and stronger proposition.

from communication to sales service, from materials to training.

The three trade shows I ran – 100% Design, Clerkenwell Design Week and LuxuryMade

Freeman William Knight is Managing

The programme of awards at The Furniture

– each have a focus on British furnishing

Director and Head of Design at Art Dubai

Makers’ Company celebrates tangible

excellence. For example, for Clerkenwell

and was Show Director at Media 10,

excellence - outstanding examples of bespoke

Design Week we introduced The British

responsible for Clerkenwell Design Week,

making, design, manufacturing, sustainability

Collection, a dedicated show at the heart of

100% Design and Luxury Made.

and exporting. Excellence in these areas is

the festival that really spells out what makes

well worth celebrating and each Guild Mark

our designers and makers world-beaters.

won increases with the profile of the awards.

As the perception of Britain abroad becomes However, beyond the individual examples,

more and more important, international

collective excellence has the potential to sustain

visitors to our shows need to take with them

the British furnishing industry. As a brand,

an undiluted message - that excellence resides

‘British Furnishing’ is in a strong position to

here, and that it matters.”

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James UK exhibition stand at 100% Design

“

William Knight, centre, tours Clerkenwell Design Week

E XC E L L E N C E

The best companies make excellence matter at all levels of their business.

“

BESPOKE & DESIGN GUILD MARKS 2016 EXCELLENCE DOWN TO THE VERY LAST DETAIL 1

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SPONSOR OF THE DESIGN GUILD MARK 2016

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1 BGM 454 Coopered Carver by Matthew Burt 2 BGM 455 Pyramidalised Dresser by Matthew Burt 3 BGM 456 Rocket Table by Rupert Senior 4 BGM 457 Transition Table by Rupert Senior 5 BGM 458 Orbis Drinks Cabinet by Edward Johnson 6 BGM 459 Log Stack Cabinet by Byron & Gomez 7 BGM 460 Ripples by Edward Johnson 8 DGM 144 Loku Range, Shin Azumi for Case Furniture 9 DGM 145 The Flow Chair, Tomoko Azumi for Ercol 10 DGM 146 Pilot Chair, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby for Knoll 11 DGM 147 Column Bookcases, Samuel Chan for Channels 12 DGM 148 Magnus Chair, Samuel Chan for Channels 13 DGM 149 The Sebastian Cox Kitchen, deVOL design team & Sebastian Cox 14 DGM 150 Ashworth Desk, Adam Daghorn for Conran by Marks & Spencer 15 DGM 151 Marino Chair and Sofa, Dylan Freeth for Ercol 16 DGM 152 Nuno Chair, Mark Gabbertas for Allermuir 17 DGM 153 William Dining Chair, Mark Gabbertas for Gloster 18 DGM 154 Eos Range, Matthew Hilton for Case Furniture 19 DGM 155 Hardy Chair, David Irwin for Another Country 20 DGM 156 The Planks Collection, Max Lamb for Benchmark 21 DGM 157 Quiet Bench hm106, Magnus Long for Hitch Mylius 22 DGM 158 hm221 Collection, Timothée Mion for Hitch Mylius 23 DGM 159 Kyoto Bench System, Morgan Studio for Morgan 24 DGM 160 UNNIA Chairs, Simon Pengelly for Inclass 25 DGM 161 My Ami Range, Alexander White for Heal’s 26 DGM 162 The Giraffe Table, Jo Wilton & Mirka Grohn for &New

E XC E L L E N C E

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MATTHEW BURT

“There is inherent value in a beautifully appropriate object and hopefully increasing pleasure in its daily use,” he says. “I want to represent my time whilst designing with posterity in mind so that my designs may continue to chime with future generations.”

Matthew established his business in a self-built garden shed in 1979. “I studied Zoology at university so I was 24 before I picked up a tool at Rycotewood and Holder of seven Bespoke Guild Marks

afterwards apprenticed with Richard Fyson.

and this year’s winner of the prestigious

But since then it has been an absolute

Christopher Claxton-Stevens Prize for

compulsion, a 40-year love affair with

Excellence for his Pyramidalised Dresser

timber.”

(above), Matthew Burt is rightly proud of his success.

The garden shed grew into larger premises on a farm, together with a showroom in

But for him, the key driver is the knowledge

Hindon, Wiltshire. During this gradual

that he has created a really good product, one

evolution Matthew realised that he needed

that will give its owner consistent day to day

help to keep up with the many ideas “that just

joy and delight.

came tumbling out of me”.

E XC E L L E N C E

Benches for the Courtauld Gallery in tiger oak. Photo Jon Stone

Together with his wife Celia he has built a

In order to support the furniture industry,

“We are designers and makers,” he says, “and

small creative team of designers, makers

Matthew is very clear: “We need to create a

we’re very proud of the synergy generated

and managers who help him to bring his

cultural and political policy that understands

by being involved with both.”

designs to life. He has learned that he has to

there is a parity of status between the applied

apply equal creativity and attention to detail

and academic.

to every aspect of the business – not only design.

Chairman of the Bespoke Guild Mark Committee Richard Williams said of Matthew’s

“The re-introduction of block release and

prize-winning piece: “Of particular note

day release within education would help the

was the accuracy of the workmanship while

“I’m the captain of my own ship, so as well

dialogue between education and training and

contending with solid timber, complex curves

as being able to design and make, I need

help to put art, craft, design and commerce

and a challenging surface detail.

support to source materials, administer,

back in the centre of our futures.”

market and sell our products if the business

“The piece is so well made and so easy on

is to work,” he says. “All aspects require the

His apprentices spend six years in training,

the eye that all the sophistication in the

same creativity and attention to detail as the

emerging as knowledgeable craftsmen with a

construction of the piece is made to seem

design and making.”

keen eye for form and function.

almost effortless. We know differently, of

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Ribbon table in rippled ash with wall hanging by Michael Brennand-Wood.

Photo Jon Stone Detail of bow-fronted drawers. Photo Ikon Studios

course, and appreciate the technical expertise that has gone into its construction.�

Some very accurate and well-deserved feedback for Matthew and his team. matthewburt.com 01747 820511

E XC E L L E N C E

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SIMON PENGELLY

It was no surprise, then, that in 2016 he not only achieved a Design Guild Mark Award for his UNNIA chair (left), but also received the Jonathan Hindle Prize for Design Excellence and the new John Makepeace Award for Innovation for the same design.

Designed for Spanish manufacturer Inclass, UNNIA is a multifunctional stacking chair There’s a gentle disarming modesty about

family, featuring a highly flexible comfortable

Simon Pengelly when you meet him. He may

sitting posture and a unique approach to

arrive togged up in motorcycling leathers

colour with a myriad of options available for

and standing at over 6ft tall, but this deep

the seat and back components.

thinking designer has progressively carved out a reputation for being one of the finest

As an eight-year-old, Simon loved nothing

contemporary furniture designers in this

more than making things in his father’s

country and internationally.

workshop. By 15 he was winning awards

E XC E L L E N C E

The UNNIA range

for cabinet-making, leading to studies at

“But while my designs may be mass produced,

For Simon, it’s all about understanding his

Rycotewood and Kingston Polytechnic. After

they still have a craft element to them. They

clients and where they want to be. “I then

working for the Conran Design Group and

still have soul.”

interpret that through design in an appropriate

Habitat, where his still best-selling Radius

and honest way, and with passion and

range also won him a Design Guild Mark,

Simon’s formative training at the bench

Simon formed his own company in 1993.

explains the pragmatism that underscores

humanity.

his intelligent design. Known for their

“Quietness is a quality the best products

“Understanding materials and the making

lightness and subtlety, his designs are

possess,” he says. “They don’t follow trend,

process will always be a fundamental part

staples in numerous international collections

rather their character is born of thoughtful

of my approach,” he says. “Initially I thought

and he has worked with most of the leading

regard to the end user via function,

I would work in one-off and small batch

furniture manufacturers in the UK and

materiality, environment, intuitiveness

production but I was then drawn to the

Europe, including Allermuir, Arper, Boss,

and familiarity. There are few things more

completely different and hugely rigorous

Foscarini, Hitch Mylius, Lapalma, Modus

exciting to me than being able to make my

challenge of designing for mass production.

and Montis.

mark with quiet design.”

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Simon, right, with judges on the Design Guild Mark judging day

simonpengelly.com 020 3538 6320

E XC E L L E N C E

MANUFACTURING GUILD MARKS CHAMPIONING BRITISH INDUSTRY

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Mayfair by Artistic Upholstery Be meeting table by Bisley Trinetic by Boss Design Langton by Burbidge Annabel bedstead and Provenance mattress

by Burgess Beds 6 Marino by Ercol 7 Solitaire by Harrison 8 Industrial Style by Hypnos 9 Fairbanks by John Sankey 10 Zeta by Michael Tyler 11 Dexter snuggler by Multiyork 12 QFC production 13 Emperor by Relyon 14 Bradshaw table by Stephen Hunter 15 Arts and Crafts by Treske 16 Chef’s Kitchen by Woodstock Furniture

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Sponsor of the Manufacturing Guild Mark

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E XC E L L E N C E

The classic best-selling MultiDrawer

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BISLEY

Our Manufacturing Guild Mark, launched

Freddy’s son Tony, now chairman, joined in

in 1993, is awarded to British furniture or

1960 and was honoured by The Furniture

furnishing manufacturers for excellence in all

Makers’ Company last year with a Lifetime

aspects of their operations, from the highest

Achievement Award.

standards of design, innovation, sustainability and production, to the very best in customer

Now Bisley produces over 15,000 items per

service and training. This assures customers

week from its factory in Wales. Its products

they are buying products made with care.

can be bought in over 50 countries, providing workplace solutions to organisations such as

Bisley, which gained the award in 2015,

Direct Line, the BBC, Guardian Newspapers

designs and provides high-quality, reliable

and PwC.

furniture for every working environment. The company is a real British success story.

Starting from humble beginnings by Freddy Brown in 1931, doing car body repair work, he won an order for steel waste paper bins in 1946 and steadily grew the company to meet the demand for office storage and furniture.

John Atkin, Managing Director

E XC E L L E N C E

Paris company Air Liquide created an adaptable working environment with Bisley’s Be collection

The company’s iconic MultiDrawer features in offices and homes all over the world. A group of them were even turned into a water fountain during Clerkenwell Design Week, in a playful collaboration with multidisciplinary design studio Acrylicize, just to take its versatility to the extreme.

Managing Director John Atkin says: “Our success is based on strong partnerships, the latest manufacturing technology and the best people. Our 700 employees are always pushing the boundaries of manufacturing excellence and, as a private company, we’re able to devote all the majority profits to our business.

Tony Brown, left, receiving his Lifetime Achievement Award from the Master, far right and the Lord Mayor of London Lord Mountevans, centre, at the 2016 Installation Dinner

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Inside Bisley’s vast warehouse

“Since 1989 we’ve invested more than £80

Great Portland Street, as well as showrooms

million - helping us to become Europe’s

in France, Holland, Germany, Ireland,

leading manufacturer of steel storage. In

Spain, Dubai and North America, Bisley is

fact, 48 per cent of all UK steel storage

well connected with the world of contract

originates from Bisley.”

furniture. Its London showroom has become a popular venue for innovative conversation,

From MultiDrawer to Be by Bisley, modular

with the company holding numerous events

storage and desking for flexible office

and round tables to share ideas and current

working, to Stage, a range for adaptable

thinking.

and contemporary home-working, the company’s extensive portfolio of furniture

“We hope that Bisley has inspired and

is helping people across the world to be

encouraged discussion on the continually

comfortable and effective, wherever they

changing world of work,” says John.

are working.

“Wherever people work we want them to

With a sales office located on London’s

thrive, so if our products can help them do

bisley.com

that we’re delighted.”

020 7436 7111

E XC E L L E N C E

Spark-Hi high back sofas with integrated electrics

GODFREY SYRETT

For a company that started life when Doris

the NHS, which continues to be a customer

Day was in the charts, Godfrey Syrett has

today, proving the strategy works.

come a long way. But it’s never lost sight of its heritage nor its guiding principles, which

“We have worked hard on our efforts in

have earned the company the prestigious

sustainability across the business, making

accolade, The Furniture Makers’ Company

significant investments in our manufacturing

Sustainability Award.

and transport facilities over the last 12 months,” says Operations Director Michael

Now in its fifth year, the award recognises

Donachie.

improvements in sustainability relating to the manufacture of furniture and

“We manage our products and projects from

furnishings, covering areas such as waste,

initial design, right through to manufacture

energy, design, packaging, transportation,

and installation. This award is excellent

employee engagement and corporate social

recognition for our staff, and we are very

responsibility.

proud to receive it.”

Godfrey Syrett’s business model supports

Entries were judged by an independent

strategic partnering and understanding its

panel of industry experts who were

customers’ wider business objectives. An

impressed by the company’s investment

early partnership was to make chairs for

in manufacturing technology, enabling it

52 / 53

Zip modular furniture system

to increase efficiency. Delivery vehicles now meet stringent European emissions standards, and reusable and 100 per cent recyclable packaging has been introduced to support Godfrey Syrett’s goal of zero waste to landfill.

Solar armchair and sofa with integrated electrics

Ben Burbidge, Master of The Furniture

Hypnos Beds, Orangebox, Premiere

Makers’ Company, says: “The goal of the

Kitchens and Senator International, all

Sustainability Award is to recognise and

previous winners of the Sustainability

champion companies determined to leave a

Award.

fine legacy to future generations.

“Godfrey Syrett has clearly demonstrated that it takes its commitment to sustainability very seriously, from sourcing raw materials and manufacturing, to end of life management and employee training.” godfreysyrett.co.uk Godfrey Syrett joins the elite group of

0191 268 1010

E XC E L L E N C E

The Boss Design showroom in Dubai

BOSS DESIGN

As the UK’s market-leading manufacturer of

The brand has become synonymous with

high quality office seating, upholstery and

excellence, meticulous attention to detail

tables, Boss Design enjoys global success

and handcrafted quality.

within this design-led sector. Committed to long-term international business growth,

Manufacturing Guild Mark Chairman Paul

it has become the inaugural winner of The

von der Heyde says: “The goal of this new

Furniture Makers’ Company Export Award.

Export Award is to recognise and champion companies that are flying the flag for British

The award was launched in 2016 to

manufacture in export markets.

recognise excellence in promoting and selling British manufactured furniture,

“Boss Design has significantly increased

bedding and furnishings to increase

export sales throughout Europe, the Middle

overseas markets.

East and Far East, and the USA, through investment in manufacturing facilities,

Boss Design’s export activities were

manufacturing licensees, and precision

praised by the expert independent judging

geographical targeted marketing.

panel for having dramatically improved the company’s performance, growth,

“A revered international brand, committed

competitiveness, customer perception and

to long-term international business growth,

staff engagement.

they are indeed a worthy winner.”

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Boss Design was founded in 1983 by Managing Director Brian Murray, who set out to combine all the hallmarks of top international design with the best of British craftsmanship, creating a level of quality and detail that has become synonymous with the Boss Design brand.

One glance at products such as Trinetic, Fairfax or Coza tells you everything you need to know about the levels of excellence the company achieves.

Boss Design develops relationships with likeminded suppliers and partners throughout the world which share its core values and high standards. Today it manufactures in four continents, has an international supply chain servicing more than 30 countries, and has plans for further expansion.

Charity President Lord Kirkham CVO, left, presenting the Export Award to Michael Holmes at the Royal Charter Dinner

Commercial Director at Boss Design Michael Holmes says: “We are immensely proud to be flying the flag for British manufacture in export markets, and will continue to make international growth a priority.� boss-design.co.uk 01384 455570

Trinetic task chair

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A WEALTH OF TALENT British designers are among the very best in the world, across furniture, textiles, lighting and every other aspect of furnishing you can think of. Here we celebrate the talents of three very different companies.

Haberdashery Haberdashery was founded by designers Mac Cox and Ben Rigby who were united by a common desire to produce narrative driven design through light. They collaborate with some of the world’s leading architects, interior designers, developers, brands and institutions.

The practice has now installed more than 450 projects in over 30 countries and its bespoke luxury lighting sculptures can be found in exclusive locations including The Shard, One Hyde Park and One 57 New York.

Its creative process is led by experimentation and play that then builds on research into the client’s brief, giving unique sculpture a sense of purpose and longevity.

“What we do is combine our in-depth knowledge of traditional materials and finishes with more high-tech processes and lighting technologies, working with a network of UK manufacturers,” says creative director Ben Rigby.

Haberdashery Green Planes lighting installation

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For example, Leaf is a customisable canopy system suspended from the ceiling. When installed with integrated downlighting, its delicately detailed bone china leaves, all made in the UK, create a spectacular statement.

And Green Planes, a recent commission from British Land and architects Squire & Partners for a new Mayfair landmark building, features 768 glass planes etched with delicate leaf and branch graphics, hung in a herringbone pattern with a mirrored panel above it to reflect and multiply. The piece hangs from the ceiling above the seating area in the building’s reception, creating a stunning decorative effect.

Haberdashery Leaf lighting system

“We like reinventing something traditional and making it really echo the space that it’s in,” says Ben. “We’re not interested in responding to fashion but rather to an intelligent and innovative interpretation of the materials and technologies to hand, with a little Haberdashery magic mixed in for good measure.” haberdashery.com

Clarissa Hulse Clarissa’s company produces luxurious home accessories, wallpapers and fabrics that combine stunning colour and print with fabrics such as silk and linen. Born in Prague, Clarissa Hulse

E XC E L L E N C E

her family lived in many countries while she was growing up, including Thailand, Spain,

Italy and Greece, which has had a huge influence on Clarissa’s approach to colour and design.

Graduating from Brighton Art College in the 1990s, Clarissa worked as a freelance textile designer before setting up her own studio to produce scarves. This soon evolved into designs for home accessories and the business has grown to become one of the most respected textile brands in the UK, stocked in department stores such as Heal’s, John Lewis, Liberty and Selfridges as well as many exclusive interiors boutiques.

“I have an obsession with colour – it is definitely the hallmark of my work,” says Clarissa. “The beauty of nature completely fascinates me and I draw most of my inspiration from the countryside where I walk, take photographs and collect interesting items.”

Callista range by Clarissa Hulse for Harlequin

Delicate flower petals, seed heads, grasses, cow parsley and leaves feature strongly in Clarissa’s products, most notably in her new collection with textile and wallpaper brand Harlequin. Contemporary botanical designs combine with intense colour creating interior products that truly stand out from the crowd.

“My Greek mother was a keen gardener and she taught me the names of all the species,” she says. “Holidays were usually things like traipsing across the Austrian Alps looking at mountain flowers.

“It’s obviously had a lasting impact on me!” clarissahulse.com

Having fun with the Royal nursery furniture

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Steuart won a competition launched

by The Furniture Makers’ Company to design nursery furniture for Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, in celebration of the birth of Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana.

His colourful, playful range was chosen unanimously by the judges for its sense of fun, originality and use of colour. The table and chairs are highly versatile, becoming “boats, canoes, or trains” which can pass through “tunnels” created by the table.

Steuart delivered the furniture himself to Kensington Palace, and we understand the pieces were very well received.

“My aim is to design products and furniture that can be used in your daily lives, where the pleasure is gained both from the appearance and use of the object,” says Steuart. steuartpadwick.co.uk

Steuart Padwick Steuart trained at Parnham Furniture College and the Royal College of Art, and set up as a furniture designer in 1980. After 30 years he launched his own brand in 2009 at 100% Design.

As well as having private and contract clients, he designs for other retailers like The Conran Shop, Heal’s, CB2, Land of Nod and Mothercare, and his designs are the best-selling pieces for Made.com. Recently his Laptilt desks were selected for the new Twitter offices in the US.

Steuart Padwick

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MAKING OUR INDUSTRY’S VOICE HEARD

By Jonathan Hindle, Past Master, Group Managing Director KI EMEA, and Chairman of the British Furniture Confederation

The British Furniture Confederation’s (BFC)

Our recently published manifesto examines

mission is to sustain a strong and influential

the key issues that affect our industry and

dialogue with Government, ensuring that

highlights clear actions the Government

its policies support a thriving UK furnishing

should take to ensure the furnishing

industry.

industry thrives in the years ahead.

We bring together the many trade

It has been sent to ministers across

associations that represent our diverse

Government, as well as shadow ministers

industry (see panel right), representing £10

and key members of the All Party

billion of production in the UK, through

Parliamentary Furniture Industry Group,

the efforts of 106,000 people who work in

with clear, implementable calls for action to

The manifesto was developed in response

manufacturing, plus many more designers,

bolster the furniture, furnishings and bed

to an industry-wide survey we conducted

specifiers and retail employees.

industry.

soon after the EU referendum was held.

Jonathan Hindle, right, with The Rt. Hon Greg Hands MP, Minister of State for International Trade

The survey, completed by 150 companies, identified a number of key challenges as well as opportunities for the industry.

These range from increased costs and market slow down, to the challenge of accessing UK Government or EU grants or finding skilled staff. Access to the EU single market is essential for many of the companies we surveyed.

We also have made clear to the Government a number of opportunities in which it could make a real difference to furniture manufacturers – and these are among the areas where the BFC plans to focus its efforts.

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These include: • Greater liaison with the industry to fully understand market conditions and what

In addition, our action plan for 2017

Trade associations brought together

concentrates on four key areas: skills

by the BFC

and training, exporting, the flammability regulations, and sustainability.

the industry requires to protect, develop and grow

Association BFM We must keep on reminding the Government of the importance of British furnishing

• Clearer improved advice on specific export markets and their legal requirements

• British Furniture Manufacturers • British Contract Furnishing Association BCFA

manufacturing to the economy. We must

• National Bed Federation NBF

make our voice heard.

• Leisure and Outdoor Furniture Association LOFA

• Ensuring competitive trade agreements are

britishfurnitureconfederation.org.uk

in place

• Furniture Industry Research Association FIRA • and associations with many

• More financial encouragement for export,

other organisations including

such as tax breaks

Anti Copying in Design and the Association of Master

• Continued access to the Single Market and to

Upholsterers & Soft Furnishers.

European labour markets for skilled workers.

E XC E L L E N C E

WHY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MATTERS

By Dids Macdonald OBE, First Assistant and CEO of ACID, Anti Copying in Design

Why is IP important to my brand?

At last year’s presentation for participants in

talent in the furnishing industry to take part in

our Young Professional Industry Experience

an intensive three-week learning programme.

(YPIE), an introduction to Intellectual

Our conference emphasised the importance

“At Herman Miller, our brand is very

Property conference was organised with

of brand and design protection and ACID

important to us - it’s not just the high quality

the UK’s leading design and IP trade

created a competition so delegates could talk

products that we offer. We create work

organisation Anti Copying in Design

about intellectual property and their brands.

environments that encourage productivity,

(ACID), supported by our affiliate lawyers.

collaboration and well-being. To be able The winning essayist, Emily Dwyer of

to get this message across, and to gain and

Launched in 2014, the YPIE course brings

Herman Miller, tells her story about why

maintain loyal customers, we need to ensure

together some of the best and brightest young

brand protection is critical to her company.

that our brand reflects this.

For decades, Herman Miller has produced innovative products to solve problems, both in the home and workplace. The amount of investment, skill and knowledge that has gone into achieving these iconic pieces - that have evident passion in their design - deserves respect. This is where Intellectual Property becomes vital.

By protecting our designs globally, we can prevent design copying that would otherwise have a negative impact on our brand. It isn’t just the effort that has gone into the creation of designs, but also developing the means of manufacturing the products, which can be patented. And there’s the quality and ethical

The Master with Emily Dwyer

sourcing of components, plus the customer

62 / 63

service before and after sales. If all of this is undermined by copies that are of inferior

Designers of the Keyn Chair Group Richard Steven and Joohee Lee from forpeople Image courtesy of Herman Miller Photo Ben Anders

quality, potential damage to the brand is extensive.

Over the years there have been collaborations with external designers who have created products that we have developed for manufacture. We understand that these designs are of their creation, and so, appropriate licences need to be developed to acknowledge that we will be the sole user of the author’s creation, and to ensure that they are appropriately compensated.

“

The amount of investment, skill and knowledge that has gone into achieving these iconic pieces - that have evident passion in their design - deserves respect.

“ Lastly, it is not just the Intellectual Property of Herman Miller that is important to our brand – it’s the Intellectual Property of others. At Herman Miller, we want to be creative and original. We don’t want to copy others. We want to be honest, and by knowing what is already in the industry, we reduce the chance of investing in developments that already exist. Respecting others’ work is also important to our brand.” hermanmiller.co.uk 0845 226 7201

E XC E L L E N C E

Young Furniture Maker Francesca Rossi and Transmute

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MEMBERSHIP HELPING US TO HELP OUR INDUSTRY Our three-fold mission to promote excellence,

each and every member and the contribution

educate for the future and help those in

you make.

need would not be possible without the enduring support and commitment of you, our

Together we are making huge progress to ensure

members.

we have a robust and thriving industry, where the highest standards of excellence are the norm,

From corporate members, which represent

where developing young talent and embedding

some of the most significant companies

skills are paramount, and where we always look

within the furnishing industry, to liverymen

after our own when times are tough.

and freemen who individually bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise, to our Young

The power of working together is truly

Furniture Makers, whose energy and passion

impressive. We’re grateful for your passion and

is so refreshing and contagious – we value

commitment to this amazing industry.

MEMBERSHIP

WHY MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

“I have a long history and involvement with

proud that one of the rooms bears my name).

UK furniture associations and committees,

Today I’m a keen supporter of the regional

starting from when I was a manager of the

committees and am currently President of the

Reading branch of Williams Furniture in

Southern Committee.

Liveryman, former Court Assistant, founder

1977, aged just 22. From the early days of Dreams, I’ve been a Committee Member of

This is not to simply rattle through a list of

the Sleep Council and was always an active

committees and activities I’ve been involved

member.

with but to try and illustrate that through

of bed company Dreams and philanthropist,

giving your time and expertise, you can really

Mike Clare is passionate about the furnishing

I’ve been associated with this charity from

contribute to how our industry progresses.

industry. He talks here about why being a

when it was known as the Furniture Trade

member is so rewarding.

Benevolent Association (FTBA), the charity

The Furniture Makers’ Company is an

for the UK furniture industry, working on

incredibly strong and supportive organisation,

various committees and helping to merge the

encompassing the entire UK furnishing

FTBA with the livery, The Furniture Makers’

industry, not just designers, suppliers,

Company, a few years ago.

manufacturers and retailers but all other furnishing associations as well as current and

And while Furniture Makers’ Hall in Austin

former employees.

Friars was being purchased, I was involved in the fundraising and financing (and am

The Company is a force for change, bringing

66 / 67

“ The Furniture Makers’ Company is an incredibly strong and supportive organisation, encompassing the entire UK furnishing industry

“ together the current thinking of major players on key issues such as addressing the skills shortage in the industry or looking at how exports are the way forward. It drives a major training and education programme for young talent, and promotes the excellence of our designers and manufacturers.

And of course, it looks after its own - helping individuals who still work or have previously served the industry who are in need of a helping hand at a difficult time.

There are numerous committees within the Company, putting in lots of hard work to move initiatives forward. There’s also a strong and friendly social side that encourages networking and helps individuals and businesses to work together for the common good of the industry.

I’m a furniture man through and through and will always be a strong supporter of The Furniture Makers’ Company and all the good work that it does. It’s a very rewarding organisation to be a part of, enabling all of us to give something back - so why not put your hand up and get involved?”

MEMBERSHIP

OUR HIGHLY VALUED CORPORATE MEMBERS

Designer

Contracts

68 / 69

MEMBERSHIP

/

C O R P O R AT E M E M B E R S

CORPORATE LIVERYMAN PROFILE

Lectra’s International Advanced Technology Centre, Bordeaux

RICHARD JESSUP

“Lectra became a corporate member of

corporate membership gives us a platform

The Furniture Makers’ Company in 2015,

to make a worthwhile contribution, giving

as we had seen the fantastic contribution

something back to the industry that has

the Company makes to the UK furnishing

supported us over many years.

industry.

Corporate liveryman Richard Jessup is

Since joining we’ve been involved in projects

Sales Director – UK & Ireland for Lectra, the

We provide integrated technology

to support furniture makers and sponsor

Bradford-based world leading technology

solutions that automate, streamline and

fundraising events. Most importantly we’re

solutions provider for the furnishing

accelerate product design, development

sharing our expertise with the many Young

industry.

and manufacturing processes for

Furniture Makers we have encountered. And

industries using soft materials. We

through networking opportunities, we have

develop advanced specialised software and cutting systems to a broad array of industries including furnishing, fashion, automotive, aeronautical, marine, wind power and personal protective equipment.

We serve 23,000 customers in more than 100 countries with 1,500 employees and €288 million revenue in 2016. So our

“

I am delighted that we are able to support operational excellence in the industry through our sponsorship

“

70 / 71

Lectra’s Technology Campus, Bordeaux

been given the opportunity to discuss best

operational excellence in the industry

practice in the industry, connecting with true

through our sponsorship of the

industry leaders.

Manufacturing Guild Mark award for excellence in manufacturing.

In my role as UK Sales Director at Lectra, it is fantastic to see growth in the UK

This is a golden opportunity for us to

furnishing industry. The industry needs

recognise those companies that can be

new young talent to help it grow in the

described as true leaders, setting an

future, so I am hugely supportive of the

example to the industry by ensuring they

work of the Company, helping young

are working to the highest standards.

people in the industry to reach their potential.

Richard Jessup

Holders of the Manufacturing Guild Mark should be immensely proud of

Working for an innovative technology

what they have achieved. I have recently

company that supports furniture

become a member of the Manufacturing

manufacturers globally, I have developed

Guild Mark committee and I hope

a passion for the industry and a wealth of

that I will be able to offer a positive

experience through interacting with our

contribution in the future.�

customers from the UK and around the world.

I am delighted that we are able to support

lectra.com

MEMBERSHIP

LIVERYMAN PROFILE

Jodi, far right, with her parents Andy and Rose Jackson

JODI SCHOFIELD

“Our company has been making beds since

I was so impressed with the students that

1927, giving people a precious night’s sleep

we have continued to host the visits for

ever since. We pride ourselves on producing

many years. The knowledge it provided to

quality, comfort and modernity, creating

these talented youngsters was invaluable.

Liveryman Jodi Schofield is Sales Director

traditional methods.

innovative design-led products using

of Burgess Beds and is passionate about her company and the furnishing industry.

My background isn’t a direct route into design - when I left school I worked for an

I first heard of The Furniture Makers’

engineering company. However my father

Company when we were contacted to host

and mother, Andrew and Rose Jackson, had

a large group of design and manufacture students as part of the annual factory tour the Company organises, supported by various sponsors. The tour was designed to give students an insight into all the different aspects of the industry from volume manufacture to bespoke, design and retail.

We quickly agreed, as encouraging younger people into an industry I am passionate about is something very close to my heart.

Gyles Brandreth, Jodi and Stuart Hibbert, at the NBF Awards

72 / 73

Jodi on a photoshoot

worked in the bed industry for many years so I was lucky enough to be a part of it from a young age.

When my father (also a liveryman)acquired Burgess he gave me the opportunity to work for him. My very first job was based on the factory floor, hand-teasing horsehair for a

“

large export opportunity as well as some UK accounts.

The Furniture Makers’ Company has also been instrumental in our business growth

Another proud moment was when Burgess won the NBF Manufacturer of the Year Award as we felt it was also recognition for the many small businesses in this industry,

“

gentleman called Peter who is now retired.

I had to learn about the product and what

something The Furniture Makers’ Company helps promote.

better way than watching beds being built

design-led companies and designers, and we

It has been amazing to watch our growth this

every day!

have such an amazing team. Our production

year with many exciting projects including a

manager Jane Woodcock and I work very

huge development project in America.

Over the years I was given more and more

well together. We could not do what we do

opportunities and progressed through the

without great people.

company until I was designing the product

I genuinely love The Furniture Makers’ Company’s progressive vision and what

range, brochures and heading sales. I’ve now

The Furniture Makers’ Company has also

it represents. I am honoured to be a

worked at Burgess for 10 years and every day

been instrumental in our business growth.

liveryman.”

is a learning curve, I still learn something new.

The Manufacturing Guild Mark we have

I am also lucky to work with some wonderful

been awarded has been key in securing a

MEMBERSHIP

burgessbeds.co.uk

FREEMAN PROFILE

ALEX DOBOCAN

“I had heard a little about The Furniture

Furniture Ombudsman and one eye out in

Makers’ Company before I started my

the industry helps me to be my best self.

Freeman Alex Dobocan is Head of PR and

role with The Furniture Ombudsman. In a preparation meeting, my CEO Kevin Grix

I am very passionate about education

shared the Company’s remit with me with

and inspiring the next generation; this is

great passion and conviction!

something The Furniture Makers’ Company

Communication at the Furniture Ombudsman.

does very well. Before becoming a freeman I Nearly a year later, I know what The Furniture

had spent much of my career in the education

Makers’ Company is and I know more about

sector, so I definitely have an affinity with the

the important work it does in the furnishing

Furniture Makers’ aims.

industry. I’ve become involved with the Communications Committee where I am

I started working with young people between

pleased to say I’ve met like-minded individuals

seven and 18 years old during my studies,

I may otherwise have never encountered.

as part of a government-funded coaching programme. I carried on holding various

Being an active member of the Company

positions within my alma mater, the University

and working with colleagues in the industry

of Bedfordshire, where I gained a BA in PR

on shared goals helps me continuously to

and followed by my Master’s degree. I then

benchmark my skills and expertise. Keeping

moved on to doing traditional PR for leading

one eye on the impact of my role at The

business schools across the globe.

74 / 75

I suppose a common theme that threads through my career has been specialism and niche services, including my current position with The Furniture Ombudsman. We’re an independent, not-for-profit organisation specialising in dispute resolution for consumers and retailers, and we also work to raise standards across the whole industry, which is good for everyone involved.

“

I am very passionate about education and inspiring the next generation

“

As a relatively small organisation there are many advantages. We are close to each other, we work well together and we all share the same values. Having a sense of the importance of community (not only professionally), we value and nurture relationships externally just as much as we do internally.

We’ve joined The Furniture Makers’ Company as a corporate member and in addition some of our senior team members are freemen. All of us are involved in various committees and we thoroughly enjoy it. Being actively involved in the work of the Company means we have the opportunity to give something back to the industry, making our work so much more rewarding. It’s not often that employees have the opportunity to get so involved – but we do and I’m glad to be a part of something so worthwhile.” furnitureombudsman.com

MEMBERSHIP

YOUNG FURNITURE MAKER PROFILE

PAUL FERRIS

“I first came across the Young Furniture

While growing up I always thought I would

Makers group at 100% Design two years

become a doctor or scientist as I was good

ago. I remember being attracted to furniture

with numbers and my parents both worked in

that had been awarded Guild Marks and

the pharmaceutical industry.

Paul Ferris made his media unit while at

thinking that I’d like to have one of those,

Chichester College and exhibited it at the

one day.

annual Young Furniture Makers exhibition.

At school in Japan I gave up the fun creative classes to focus on sciences and went on to

Since then I’ve attended many seminars and

do a BSc in Physiological Sciences at Bristol

been on the Student Industrial Tour that The

University. I barely scraped through my degree.

Furniture Makers’ Company organises. The group has been a great source of inspiration

After that I didn’t really know what I wanted

for me. Fellow makers have taught me new

to do and was feeling miserable in general.

techniques, told me about things they’ve

Using my Japanese language skills I somehow

tried, mistakes they’ve made and exhibitions

landed a job in games publishing and learned

they’ve done. The feedback from the annual

a lot about different aspects of business.

exhibition has also given me a lot more confidence in my designs.

I then took a leap and decided to go travelling to Mozambique, Nepal, India and Malaysia.

I was born in the UK but grew up in Japan - my

Inspired by all the textures and colours in

father is British and my mother is Japanese.

these countries, I started a furniture course at

76 / 77

Paul with his media unit

Chichester College as soon as I got back. The travelling rekindled my interest in living spaces and how they can change your mood or feelings. Working with wood is what I love so I plan to experiment with different furniture styles to gain a deeper understanding of furniture design.

My long-term goal is to be able to design and make furniture that functions exceptionally well and that respects the material it’s made from. If the furniture I make improves someone’s life in any way or makes him or her feel better that will be my dream come true.”

Paul with Master Elect Tony Smart

MEMBERSHIP

78 / 79

LIVERY EVENTS We have a packed calendar of livery events including our formal Master’s Installation and Royal Charter anniversary dinners, and admission ceremonies for new freemen and liverymen. Occasions such as the United Guilds Service at St Paul’s and voting for the new Lord Mayor take place with all the pomp and circumstance you would expect.

Meanwhile, our drive for excellence is evident at our bespoke furniture exhibition Inspired, held at The Goldsmiths’ Centre, our prestigious Design Guild Mark awards, and our Young Furniture Makers exhibition.

MEMBERSHIP

FURNITURE MAKERS’ HALL A versatile venue for catering for all events

Following a major refurbishment last year, Furniture Makers’ Hall is now a stunning hub for the furnishing industry for events of all sizes, ranging from both grand and intimate dinners, drinks receptions, Christmas parties, exhibitions, presentations and roadshows – even weddings!

Based in the heart of the City at Austin Friars, and with state of the art facilities, members have preferential rates on hire and catering charges so take full advantage of this jewel of a venue.

80 / 81

fmhvenuehire.co.uk sales@furnituremakers.org.uk 020 7256 7100

MEMBERSHIP

“

To me, the silhouette looks like a piece of art or an object rather than just a piece of furniture Jo Malone

“

82 / 83

FREDERICK PARKER COLLECTION One of the treasures of The Furniture Makers’

dressing room, drawing room or at the most

Company, this unique collection of over 200

wonderful alfresco lunch party,” said Jo. “To

chairs, spanning 300 years of British furniture

me, the silhouette looks like a piece of art or

history, continues to inspire both young and

an object rather than just a piece of furniture.”

established designers.

For Tim, the chance to create a display Established by Sir Frederick Parker, who set up

of such treasures was irresistible. “In the

his furniture business in 1871, the collection

UK we have some of the most important

and associated archive moved last year to new state of the art, climate controlled premises within the CASS Faculty of Art, Media and Design at London Metropolitan University.

Tim Gosling explores the detail of the chairs at the Heritage of Chair Making exhibition

furniture collections in the world but due to conservation it’s not always possible to put them on public display.

Each designer explained why the piece spoke to them. Jasper Conran chose a carved

“It was an honour to curate a display which

The exhibition now changes regularly

mahogany chair from 1740, with claw and

includes many of these rare and extraordinary

and the archive is easier to access, making

ball feet, featuring a decorative theme of

pieces.”

it an invaluable educational resource for

eagles, the symbol of Jupiter. tgosling.com

students from the CASS and other education institutions, as well as designers from

“I think chairs, like no other piece of furniture,

furnituremakers.org.uk/frederick-parker-

companies such as Parker Knoll who want to

have the ability to be vested with character,

collection

research material from the company’s past.

charm, humour and wit,” he said. “I particularly like this chair because it has all those attributes

And it’s this enduring heritage that also

and it feels like those claw and ball foot legs are

continues to fascinate today’s leading British

marching into the room.”

designers. For Decorex 2016 liveryman Tim Gosling created a spectacular exhibition called

While Jo Malone opted for the 1951 Ernest

“The Heritage of Chair Making”, featuring

Race Antelope Chair, designed for the Festival

pieces from this collection and from the V&A,

of Britain. “This chair has such a chameleon

chosen by 12 top designers.

quality about it and could easily sit within a

F R E D E R I C K PA R K E R C O L L ECT I O N

The collection in its new home at the CASS

84 / 85

2ND BATTALION THE RIFLES The Furniture Makers’ Company is

with the programme likely to expand to

programme before an expected deployment

proud to continue its affiliation with 2nd

other southern African countries.

during 2017. Training for this role has been

Battalion, The Rifles. Here Major Jonathan

physically and mentally demanding for all those

M Flynn, Second in Command, updates us

During the summer A Company and

involved. The sensitivities of this deployment

on recent events.

Battalion Headquarters deployed to

with the UN and into a country where very

Romania for a three-week NATO exercise

few British soldiers have been before will be

“Since our last update we have been tested

in the Transylvanian mountains. We

exciting and challenging.

on our statement that 2 RIFLES is a well-

were fully integrated into a Romanian

trained light infantry unit ready to deploy

Army Mountain Brigade, operating in a

As a Battalion we are grateful for the

anywhere in the world at short notice. A

scenario against a hostile state. It was

support The Furniture Makers’ Company

simple list of where the Riflemen have

a fascinating experience for all those

provides us. The award of Best Rifleman

been would be to sell them short, given the

involved, particularly seeing how the

in 2016, won by Rifleman Bailey and

variety of tasks they have completed; I will

Romanians lived and worked. It reminded

presented by the Master in March, is

stick to the highlights.

us that soldiers the world over can quickly

important external recognition of an

find common ground and enjoy simple

individual’s work and a prized award. And

Poaching in Africa has been in the headlines

pleasures, whether that be a game of

your generous Christmas presents, sent to

recently and 2 RIFLES has continued to

football or some shared food. Indeed,

a small team deployed to the Middle East

play its part in preventing this deplorable

some enjoyed their time there so much,

at short notice, were received with great

activity. Working in the demanding jungle

they have been back since for holidays.

appreciation.

foreign language were real challenges for

Last year the Government announced that the

The Battalion remains well manned, well

the team but it has proved to be genuinely

UK would be sending troops to South Sudan in

trained and equipped, and ready for the

rewarding work. Perhaps more importantly

support of the United Nations. C Company has

challenges this year will doubtless bring.”

it appears to be making a difference. The

been selected to form the nucleus of this group

team will return to Gabon again this year,

and has just completed its demanding training

environment in Gabon and teaching in a

SUPPORT

army.mod.uk

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR CHARITY GENEROUSLY THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

This year we have continued to make annuity

Your continued donations ensure the

As ever, we have set ourselves ambitious

payments and one-off grants, helping people

prosperity and longevity of our industry, and

growth targets. However, the establishment

who have fallen on tough times or are in need

for that I would like to extend a big thank you,

of our regional committees around the UK

of financial support.

particularly to those of you listed below, and

have presented fresh, exciting opportunities

all of you who have paid the annual charitable

for people unconnected with the livery to

donation.

get involved with our charitable activities and

Through our all-encompassing education programme, we continue to make strides

understand how we can support them.

in encouraging students and young

This year draws to a close my time as

professionals to pursue a career in the

Chairman of Fundraising and I’m delighted

furnishing industry.

to say that charitable income has continued to grow.

None of this would be possible without our many fundraising campaigns and the

As we look forward to the next four years, I

generosity of all of you, our freemen,

would like to wish our incoming Chairman,

Jonathan Hindle

liverymen, corporate liverymen, companies

Billy Quinn, the very best in continuing to

Chairman of

and individual supporters.

grow our charity.

Fundraising OAK

KI

YEW

Ben Burbidge

BiKBBI

BrightHouse

C E DA R

Blum UK

Edward Tadros

January Furniture Show

Cabinet Maker

Festool

Jonathan Hindle

CCUK

Furniture Village

Nicholas Radford

Classi Seal

Glasswells Limited

Margaret Miller

Halo

86 / 87

ELM

Paul von der Heyde

DFS

Lectra UK

A H Furniture

Dr Sue Powell

Millbrook Beds

Andrew Purves

Ercol Furniture

National Bed Federation

Associated Independent Stores Limited

Fishpools

Panaz Ltd

Axminster Tools & Machinery

Furniture Gift Fairs Ltd (Manchester Furniture Show)

Peter Checketts

B&Q

Graham Marley

Peter Hooper

Bensons for Beds

Hands of Wycombe

Sealy

Brian Ahern

Harrison Spinks

Senator Group

CDUK

Hayden Davies

Silentnight Beds

Celtheath Limited

Henry Tadros

Skolnik, Stephen

Chimera Insurance

Howdens

Stewart Linford

Colourfast World

Hypnos

Tempur UK

Community Playthings

Ian Peers

Thomas Clare

David Woodward

John Cotton Group

Tony Attard

Designer Contracts

John Irwin

TradePoint

Knoll International

ASH

Micheal Ahern

Harrisons

Mandy and Nigel Johnson

1961 Charitable Trust

Herman Miller

NIC EIC

BFM

Hettich

Rotadex

Clare Family Trust

Howlands

Swan Retail

CPS Wales Ltd

Instant Print W1

Sweet Dreams

David Dewing

J H Haskins & Son Ltd

Tangent

Dunster Beds

William White

F R I E N D S O F F R E D E R I C K PA R K E R

Janet Arnold

David Dewing

Martin Jourdan

Richard Paice

Nicholas Somers

Karl Arnold

Dawn Durrant

Sue Jourdan

Alan Pledge

Lalage Stephens

John Boram

Michael Gilham

John Kitching

Michael Priest

Mary Stirling

Harold Brown

Oliver Heal

Geoffrey Leigh

Nancy Reid

Christopher Tetlow

Simon Brown

Jonathan Hindle

David Longhurst

Roger Richardson

Charles Vernon

Bertram Chapman

Marigold Honey

Dids Macdonald

Mathew Rose

Paul von der Heyde

Sheridan Coakley

Roger Honey

Stephanie Marsh

Cliff Rust

Sue Walker

John Cross

Jane Howard

Peter Metcalfe

Camilla Sargeaunt

Caroline Weeks

Godfrey Curtis

Harry Jones

Edward Nelson

Tony Smart

David Woodward

Rosemary Olsen

T H A N K YO U

CHARITY ACTIVITIES IN 2016 31 people supported

MEMBERSHIP More than 3000 hours of members’ time

103

Freemen

£37,205 one-off grants

281

224

75

Over £105,750

£62,335 spent on annuitants

in total spent on welfare

£6,210

Young Furniture Maker members

Liverymen

SUPPORT

value of goods donated

90 people supported

30

Corporate liverymen

Corporate members

EDUCATION Over £105,150 in total spent

Beds

£3,000

School Design

YFM Exhibition

on schools, apprenticeships, Young Furniture Makers,

£9,100

Student Industrial Tour 31places

University bursaries and Young Professionals

£16,000

BA bursaries 16 universities supported

£1,500

YFM Seminars

£10,000

MA Scholarships 4 universities supported

Wardrobes

£4,700

Student Prizes

1,100

prizes awarded

£49,000

value of prizes Mentorship programme

20

Mentor / Mentee partnerships

Central heating installed

Young Professional Industry Experience

£4,850

8 Students 15 Days 20 Companies

Apprenticeships

£7,000 Sponsored the development & launch for 11 new Level 2 & 6 new Level 3 Apprenticeship standards

EXCELLENCE We recognise and inspire the very highest standards within the industry with our prestigious Guild Marks & Awards

17

total holders

461

162

total holders

total holders

6 BGMs Awarded 10 Judges 1prize for Excellence Exhibition at Inspired £80,000 worth of bespoke furniture sold 18 exhibitors

19 DGMs Awarded 1prize for Excellence 1prize for Innovation 8 Judges 27,387 Visitors to exhibition at 100% Design

The Furniture Makers’ Company Furniture Makers’ Hall 12 Austin Friars, London EC2N 2HE 020 7256 5558 furnituremakers.org.uk

Cover Image Design Guild Mark 160 UNNIA Chairs designed by Simon Pengelly for Inclass