Homage to the Square
So why the square? For me it represents a cultural sophistication unique to itself. Whist not unknown in nature, the square and derivatives are essentially human constructs and ones used so delicately and effectively by certain designers. The square offers a set of design parameters which are at one and the same time flexible and open to abuse.
Use this geometric shape without regard and it becomes monotonous; apply it sparingly or with deliberate intent and its effect can be electrifying. Within this part of the showcase are a number of designs which take this fascinating shape for a spin.
The Heritage Cabinet
Eight tier chest of drawers supporting a top cabinet comprising three inner cabinets, one drawer, and seven pull out boxes in bird's-eye and quilted maple with rosewood detailing.
Dimensions: W 900 mm x D 430 mm x H 1815 mm - (W 1800 mm when doors fully opened)
"Direct inspiration for this 'kimono' design came from Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Josef Hoffmann, with passing references to Biedermeier and Art Deco in equal measure. I wanted to explore the idea of using one wood type (in this case maple) and providing an accent with another (rosewood). I was less concerned with acknowledging the wood as 'wood' and more interested in seeing it as pattern and subtle coloured textures as a painter might represent it in two dimensions. Both in design and visual appearance I did not want the cabinet to be obvious and reveal everything at once. The viewer must work to find the interplay of shape, colour and detail complexity. Thus the design can be read on more than one level which again pays homage to CRM and his approach to design."
Tartan Chest
Solid maple carcass with walnut, ash and olive ash burr veneers. Hand turned drawer pulls in solid walnut.
Dimensions: W 645 x D 420 x H 1050 mm
"The underlying philosophy of this piece was to take the concept of tartan and squares and blend them into a vertical design to grace the front and sides of an otherwise traditional chest of drawers. At one and the same time, the contrasting veneers were used to define and re-define the relationship and scale between the geometric elements.
By using particular veneers playing on the notion of light and dark it has been possible to create a design that has dynamic counter balances of shape and tone while at the same time being pleasing to the eye."
Gallery Seat
Laminated oak carcass with solid oak legs and burr oak detailing. Crushed faux-suede upholstered seat and bolster.
Dimensions: W 400 x D 400 x H 400 mm
"This design was commissioned by The National Trust for Scotland as a gallery seat. Based on a cube but with a few nips and tucks, the seat arrangement would be comfortable enough to take the weight off visitor's feet for a short while without being too comfortable and them staying put!"
Maple Occasional Table
Solid maple frame incorporating two lockable drawers. Maple, quilted maple, and rosewood detailing to top with additional inset glazed section. Decorative under shelf and hand turned draw pulls.
Dimensions: L 1200 mm x D 600 mm x H 480 mm
This was a commission from a London client who was a fan of both Josef Hoffmann and the inter-war Dutch De Stijl movement. The design is a subtle play on rectangles and squares with positive and negative shapes reminiscent of Hoffmann while incorporating 'form follows function' principles, the most evident of which is the drawer runner detail."
Jewellery Box
In quilted and bird's eye maple with rosewood detailing. Opening lid to reveal inner compartment housing small lift out tray. Two drawers below with hidden opening mechanism. Lined in red baize.
Dimensions: W 160 mm x D 120 mm x H 165 mm
"A further development of the square motif, this time with a hidden opening mechanism."
Keepsake Box
In quilted and bird's eye maple with rosewood detailing. Lift out tray. Lined in red baize.
Dimensions: W 280 mm x D 230 mm x H 280 mm
"This design was created to visually suggest a box tied with ribbon. The box was originally designed to sit within the Heritage Cabinet behind a central door but has also been commissioned as a stand alone piece."