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
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EDUCATION
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EXCELLENCE
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
“
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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
40 / 41
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
48 / 49
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
E XC E L L E N C E
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.
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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