CREATORS OF THE EXTRAORDINARY
JOURNAL THE JUBILEE ISSUE woodworks1988.com
New York | California | London | Cheshire
A GREAT BRITISH BRAND LIVING THE AMERICAN DREAM Woodworks are global leaders in the wood flooring industry. Beginning three decades ago in the UK, we are proud to now have four locations on either side of the pond and a vast portfolio of both commercial and residential projects across the globe. Our US locations are in New York and California, but our projects span 20 states across the nation, with recent completions in Texas, Florida and Philadelphia. As a Great British Brand, we have been inspired this summer by Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee. The Queen is the first British monarch to celebrate 70 years of service so we are proudly paying homage to the best of all things British. An innovative and independent business, we create the finest antique, reclaimed and sustainable new wood flooring. We have always provided a full-service offering to our customers and take pride in handcrafting the very best floors, from the very best woods. Our passion for wood, respect for nature and unrivalled flooring expertise have been helping our customers discover the wonder of wood since 1988. And we are confident they will continue to do so for many more years to come... Here’s to the next 70 years of creating the extraordinary.
Katie Hudghton Director of Marketing
ELIAS: OUR LATEST INNOVATION Elias is crafted from slower, wilder grown English Oak, giving the floor a more characterful and natural appearance. The oak is importantly Quarter Sawn which gives an incredible straight grain running through every plank. Call 0808 501 7429 to order a sample today
ON THE COVER Flying the flag for the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, our Union Jack has been handcrafted in our English workshops using English Estate Oak, Jarrah Heartwood, Reclaimed Elm from 1520 and real platinum metal. Photographed by British creative Bradley Griffin of Kayode Creative.
R KS F A I LY T RE E M WO D
OU R WOO
Much like a sustainable well-managed forest, the Woodworks ecosystem is made up of many different branches across our locations in New York, California, London and Cheshire. Our family tree gives you a small glimpse into some of our British natives.
THE MAJESTIC OAK Robert Walsh, Founder The wise English Oak is strong and resilient, holding a special place in British culture, history and hearts. Robert founded Woodworks, when after spending a summer restoring Reclaimed Pine floorboards in his parent’s back garden he received his first order for 40 square yards of timber for a barn conversion. As a former philosophy student Robert has a cando attitude and entrepreneurial spirit that leads the business to continually innovate.
THE STURDY ASH
Matt Lee, Director of Production British craftspeople have worked with Ash timber for years. It is one of the strongest hardwoods and absorbs shocks without splintering. Matt started as an apprentice over 12 years ago. Since then, he’s worked his way through the ranks to learn everything there is to know about our products and is a dedicated and highly respected member of the team. Matt has recently been appointed Production Manager for our brandnew Woodworks design, crafting and production facility. This expansive workshop was opened in line with our ambitions to further champion Great British Manufacturing.
THE DETERMINED BIRCH Louise Weston, Project Co-ordinator The Silver Birch is a fast-growing species. Its silvery-white bark may look delicate, but under lies a strong wilfulness to grow. Meet the newest face in the Woodworks family, Louise Weston. Louise brings with her a wealth of experience having worked in the residential sector for many years. Louise is on hand to help with your initial project enquiries and answer any questions you might have. Get in touch with Louise today to discuss your project. Email: louise.weston@woodworks1988.com Call: 0808 501 7429
A ROYAL WALK THROUGH TIMBER HISTORY OUR WOODS WITH INTERESTING HISTORIES
Our English Oak is often referred to as ‘Parkland Oak’ because it was allowed to grow wild, making it a unique wood much like George’s unique reign. It requires expert skill to use on floors, with the restoration stage requiring the use of our artisans’ most careful handcrafting techniques.
These woods also originate from a variety of historical periods, which are often typified by the British monarch who reigned during the time. Each of these monarchs had their own unique personality, just like our reclaimed and restored floors. In celebration of Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee we invite you to experience the very best reclaimed antique woods from some of Britain’s most influential monarchical reigns.
1509 HENRY VIII
Rich in character and texture, it is hard to beat the rustic charm of antique original face Elm. This is one our oldest and most magnificent woods, featuring perfect imperfections and characterful details throughout. The wood has been dated to 1520, during the middle of King Henry VIII’s reign.
GEORGE III
Antique English Oak (1785)
Throughout the past three decades, we have been privileged to reclaim and restore antique woods from all around the globe as part of our Woodworks portfolio.
Ancient Elm (1520)
1760
1625 CHARLES I
Antique Pitch Pine (1630) Ever since Charles I landed at Charlestown, South Carolina this wood has been a material valued by the navy – shipped across to the West Coast of Great Britain and used to build our industrial heartlands in the 19th century. Charles claimed every piece of this exceptional material as his own, marking the beams with his personal seal.
1901 EDWARD VII
War Office Pine (1910) We’re very fortunate to be the custodians of beams from the Old War Office. This neobaroque building in London’s Whitehall, built in 1901, became the administration centre of the British Army during both World Wars. This pine’s charming appearance reflects the personality of the monarch of the day, Edward VII.
1837
QUEEN VICTORIA
1952 TO PRESENT
ELIZABETH II
Bridgewater Pine (1860) This North American Pitch Pine was reclaimed from the Bridgewater Docks on the banks of the River Mersey, Northern England. The wood itself dates back to 1860 and is dimensionally one of the most impressive woods we’ve ever reclaimed due to its extraordinary width. It’s also incredibly hardwearing and strong, much like the reign of Queen Victoria.
We have floors that even outdate these monarchs, with some of our woods pushing 1,000 years in age. If you’d like to speak to us about using these floors in your project, please get in touch via hello@woodworks1988.com
Galion English Oak (2022) The floor of Kings and Queens, Galion is crafted using the finest English Oak. Sourced responsibly from woodlands across the UK the oak is Quarter Sawn, making it a rare and beautiful commodity, with exceptionally straight grain patterns and medullary rays throughout. Boasting a ½” wear layer, this floor offers remarkable longevity - just like our longestreigning monarch.
THE HOXTON
ARUNDEL GARDENS
TOKYO PIZZA
LONDON CALLING
NANDO’S
Location: Soho, in t
Featured Floor: Gas
Although our floors can be seen in 20 states across the USA, London is truly where Woodworks has the largest concentration of commercial and residential presence in one city. Our map of the UK’s capital city provides just a selection of some of the incredible venues we have had the pleasure of working on over the years, many of which are now recognised as iconic buildings and award-winning masterpieces.
REGENT’S CRESENT
HATTON GARDE
TREEHOUSE HOTEL
BURBERRY KURT GEIGER
THE LANGHAM
ASPINAL OF LONDON
MONTAGUE ST.
NANDO’S
CLARIDGES CHOPARD DIOR ALON ZACHAIM
SOHO LOFT
THE GLEBE
ELIE SAAB
ASPREY
OSPREY
HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL HARRODS
TH WOODWORKS DESIGN CENTRE
SOFITELL THE CORINTHIA
GREAT SCOTLAND YARD HOTEL
VACHERON CONSTANTIN HANS PLACE TEMPERLEY LONDON
TOKYO PIZZA
ABELL AND CLELAND
Location: Maida Vale, West London Featured Floor: Ebony Herringbone, Superwide Collection
CHELSEA DESIGN CENTRE
WOW!HOUSE - A DESTINATION WHERE EACH ROOM TELLS A STORY Location: Chelsea Harbour, West London The Design Centre at Chelsea Harbour is the world’s premier destination for design and decoration excellence, being home to over 120 international showrooms and featuring over 600 brands.
All illustrations by our Woodworks Graphic Designer, Laura Lambert
WOW!house runs through June 1st – 30th at Chelsea Harbour and is the Design Centre’s first-ever designer showhouse. We are proud to have collaborated with three extraordinary designers featuring at the event and have our floors display. Read more on the back page. Featured Floor: Lauzes Extra Wide Plank, Aged Collection Espresso Herringbone, Editions Collection
Please note this map is a representation and does not show accurate locations.
S
S SOHO
SOHO LOFT
the heart of London’s West End
Location: Soho, London
slamp Chevron, Urban Collection
Soho has an atmosphere quite reminiscent of Greenwich Village, NYC. It is home to many converted warehouses which offer a desirable combination of historical interest, unique industrial features, and contemporary design-led interiors. One prime example of a gorgeous warehouse renovation is SOHO Loft, located in the heart of London’s West End. A tranquil space away from the bustle of London life, this project uses natural materials, a neutral colour palette, and a lot of natural light to create a Japanese-inspired haven created for a renowned musician.
THE ZETTER HOTEL
EN FOUR SEASONS
Featured Floor: Unfinished Prime Grade European Oak
HE GHERKIN
TOWER OF LONDON
NOCO HOTEL-MARKET-BAR
SEA CONTAINERS THE SHARD
THE O2
NEW UNION WHARF
NOCO: HOTEL-MARKET-BAR Location: 15 Water Street, Wood Wharf, E14
TREEHOUSE HOTEL Location: Marylebone, London Featured Floor: Babington Plank, Antique Collection
Canary Wharf is often compared to the Financial District of NYC, and it’s easy to understand why. Pioneering property developers continue to evolve the skyline of Canary Wharf – London’s premier destination for working, shopping and eating. The newest development, Wood Wharf successfully combines tomorrow’s workspaces, with waterside living and thoughtfully designed spaces. NoCo is a brand-new vibrant hotel, market and bar opening summer 2022. Featured Floor: Nature Grade European Oak
BOLDLY BRITISH DESIGN: AT HOME WITH ANNE-MARIE LEIGH Our Woodworks locations in New York and California service our clients not only from the West and East Coasts, but everywhere in between. We are proud to have been creating extraordinary projects with acclaimed designers from around the globe for over 30 years. Although project specifications, locations and industry sectors may change, one element remains consistent – the timeless demand for Great British Craftmanship. Today, we chat with London-based designer Anne-Marie Leigh of Anne-Marie Leigh Interior Design (AMLID) about her American inspirations, love of natural materials and injecting a quintessentially British look into your home projects.
ANNE-MARIE: THE INTERIOR DESIGNER Like us, Anne-Marie Leigh is inspired by projects on either side of the pond. Although the foundation of her work is based on her love of Great British Craftsmanship, much of Anne-Marie’s style is drawn from a blend of New York architecture. “When in New York, I always take a trip to The Flatiron, it’s always captivated me as such an iconic building.” Specifically, Anne-Marie names Shea McGee and Kelly Wearstler amongst her top inspirations. She began her professional life pursuing a career in advertising but having always had a passion for interiors was inspired to retrain at the respected KLC Design School in prestigious Chelsea, London. She subsequently set up AMLID in 2014 and has been completing luxury residential projects in and around London ever since. Anne-Marie has always enjoyed travel, and between vacations across the US and rest of the world, has cultivated an eclectic sense of style. When discussing her travel inspiration, we asked Anne-Marie why she believes British style continues to captivate the US world of interior design. She remarked, “The British country house style is steeped in history, culture, heritage and tradition which appeals to the American market. British design is synonymous with classic quality craftsmanship, and luxurious textiles, inevitably creating timeless spaces that are admired by future generations”. Get the look with Aged European Oak, Miellin.
Scan the QR code to download full specification of Miellin.
As a nation, the UK are known for producing great quality products that stand the test of time.
ANNE-MARIE: THE HOME OWNER Anne-Marie not only designs prestigious residential projects for her clients but has also recently completed a full-scale renovation of her own traditional 1930s property in Surrey, just South East of London. Much like the way in which New York City workers have chosen The Hamptons as their second-home location, Surrey is the luxurious suburban preference of many of the capital city’s corporate workers. Anne-Marie’s personal style is classic with a contemporary twist. She has effortlessly created a sense of grandeur by contrasting the old with the new and adding statement pieces to create focal points against a background of neutrality. “Interior design should be timeless and not something that will date, so for that reason I don’t tend to follow trends. I love a neutral backdrop with lots of texture and pops of colour to keep things interesting. Lighting is also something I am very passionate about, as it is so important in interiors and often overlooked.” And of course, Anne-Marie tells us why she chose Woodworks to introduce something extraordinary into her family home. “My clients have always been thrilled with the results of their projects when I have specified a Woodworks floor. So they were my first choice when designing my own home. We chose Nature Grade European Oak because of it’s classic, naturally warm wood tone and characterful texture. We chose to use the same floor in different formats throughout the house to give a seamless flow, whilst still giving a different look in each room. From receiving samples to ordering the customer service is second-to-none and the Woodworks team are very knowledgeable and helpful.”
Order a sample of our woods by emailing hello@woodworks1988.com today.
REGENT’S CRESCENT A MODERN MASTERPIECE OF REGENCY GRANDEUR Location: Regent’s Park, Marylebone, London Sector: Residential Floor: Tolland Engineered Oak Plank and Herringbone Whilst the Regency period lasted only a short nine years (1811 through 1820), the enduring impression it made on British architecture can still be seen today in the elegant and distinctive buildings throughout our towns and cities. One iconic example of the Regency era is the aptly named Regent’s Crescent. Designed by a foremost British architect, John Nash - who also designed Marble Arch and Buckingham Palace - this historical structure recently started a new chapter in its incredible history. This magnificent Grade I listed building was adapted into a high a specification development of sixty-eight crescent apartments and nine gardens, with the heritage façade reconstructed to perfection. Inside, the majestic interiors were designed to capture the grandeur of the Regency period whilst adding exquisite modern touches to suit discerning contemporary living. Regency proportions are complemented by bronze and black accents that have been used to deliver sophistication and set off the exquisite stone and durable ¾” wood floors which undoubtedly contribute to the historic grandeur of interiors. Download the full case study at: woodworks1988.com/inspiration/projects
PRIME
SETTING THE GRADE Choosing the grade of your floor is an important part of the specification process and one that some architects can overlook.
The cleanest grade that gives the most uniform appearance. It allows for a small number of knots, but has minimal amounts of sapwood and the smallest amount of tonal variation.
SELECT A mix of prime and cleaner nature grade boards. Most planks will be sap free, with some irregular grain and a limited number of knots allowed. Select grade flooring was specified for Regent’s Crescent.
Wood grades indicate how many natural features a wood floor has, and they are graded according to the number and size of the features on each board, such as knots, sap and tonal variation. In Regent’s Crescent appartements, great attention was paid to the grade of the bespoke floors with 13 characteristics, including the number and size of the knots being noted by the designers as part of their specification brief. We take grading seriously and hold ourselves to a higher standard than you’ll find elsewhere in the industry – you could even say that we set the grade.
NATURE Up to 30% of the board can include sapwood and heartwood which has a wider tonal variation. Irregular grain, knots up to 2”, and complementary filler will be used.
Think about whether you want a super-clean look in your project, or whether you want something that has lots of natural features in it. You may even want something that sits in the middle of the two. Our easy to use grading scale (shown on the right) demonstrates the spectrum of natural features you’ll get in our wood floors, whether you choose a uniform looking Prime floor, or a more characterful Genuine Reclaimed floor.
CHARACTER Characterful wood that includes some larger knots with checks across growth rings, wider tonal variation across boards, heartwood, sapwood, and filler.
RUSTIC A heavier grade than nature which allows a virtually limitless size and number of knots, heartwood and tonal variation throughout the boards. There is no minimum amount of sapwood or filler.
GENUINE RECLAIMED Characterful features can include nail holes, restoration features, and weather cracks, as well as filler, limitless knots, checks, sap, and tonal variation.
WELCOME TO WOW!HOUSE
One of the world’s premier destinations for design and decoration excellence, the Design Centre in London’s Chelsea Harbour is usually home to 120 showrooms and over 600 of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands. However, this June it also opens its doors to WOW!house; its first-ever designer showhouse. This immersive design experience provides a walkthrough of imaginative wonder, filled with different styles, colours and patterns where each room is created by an esteemed interior designer, working in collaboration with renowned makers and design houses. We are always delighted to collaborate with acclaimed designers, including AD100 short listers, and at WOW!house we were proud to showcase our floors throughout the following rooms with the following creators.
RAYMAN BOOZER
RICHARD MOORE
UNITED IN DESIGN
Principal Bedroom
Dressing Room
Living Room
New York based AD100 designer Rayman Boozer was inspired by the 90s film ‘The Pillow Book’ to create a romantic and sensual space.
Martin Moore Bespoke Furniture pride themselves on exceptional craftsmanship. Showcasing their New Deco collection in a contemporary dressing room.
Charitable organisation United in Design are collaborating with de Le Cuona using their beautiful fabrics to create a dream living space.
CONTACT US Our branches may reach around the world, but we are still grounded by our roots where we began - in the heart of Cheshire, England. This is where our global design, crafting and production powerhouses are located, and is how we are able to continue to provide an industry-leading full service offer to our American customers.
New York Office 205 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013, USA
California Office 160 Scowebrook Street, Simi Valley, CA 93065, USA
Look for our FSC® certified Products
Call: 0808 501 7429 | Email: hello@woodworks1988.com Visit: woodworks1988.com | Follow: @woodworksbytedtodd
DP4/88
London Design Centre 79 Margaret Street, London, W1W 8TA, England