Young Furniture Makers exhibition

Showcasing Talent: The Young Furniture Makers exhibition

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The event provides a unique opportunity for students, apprentices, and young professionals to display their work to a broad audience, including industry experts, potential employers, and the public.

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The furniture industry has long been a cornerstone of British craftsmanship, blending tradition with innovation. In this ever-evolving landscape, nurturing the next generation of designers and makers is crucial.

The Young Furniture Makers exhibition, organised by The Furniture Makers' Company and sponsored by Tizo, is a prime example of how the industry celebrates emerging talent. This annual event not only showcases the exceptional skills of young designers but also serves as a launchpad for their careers in furniture making.

The event provides a unique opportunity for students, apprentices, and young professionals to display their work to a broad audience, including industry experts, potential employers, and the public. Held at Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church in the City of London, this event has become a must-visit for anyone interested in the future of furniture design and manufacturing.

Participants range from school students to young professionals, all with a passion for furniture design. The exhibition features a wide variety of pieces, from traditional woodcraft to contemporary design innovations. The diversity of entries not only reflects the rich heritage of British furniture making but also highlights the exciting directions the industry is heading in.

Awards and Recognition

The Young Furniture Makers exhibition is more than just a showcase; it’s a competitive arena where the best designs are recognised with prestigious awards. These accolades not only boost the profiles of the winners but also open doors to new career opportunities.

Last years’ Winners:

National School Design Prize, sponsored by KI: Orbitron by Charlotte Woolard

The Bespoke Award, sponsored by Axminster Tools: Lines Puzzle Cabinet by Josey Garbutt

The Design Award, sponsored by NaughtOne: Baileigh Chair by Eden Bunce

The Textiles Award, prizes sponsored by Parker Knoll: Sculpt by Emily Cross

The Leather Prize, prizes sponsored by The Leathersellers’ Company: the Hide Armchair by Holly Preece

The Idea Prize, sponsored by Colebrook Bosson Saunders: 25 Degrees by Harvey McKellar

The Fast Track Prize, prize sponsored by Malcolm Walker: All Seeing Chair by Maria Gil

The Best Chair in Show Prize, sponsored by Sitting Firm by Gaze Burvill: Crescent Chair by Archie Goundrey

Best in Show Prize, prize sponsored by Blum: Lines Puzzle Cabinet by Josey Garbutt.

For young designers, the Young Furniture Makers exhibition is an invaluable experience. It offers the chance to network with industry professionals, receive constructive feedback on their work, and gain exposure in a highly competitive field. Two past awardees from the 2022 awards, Clare NG and Sam Attard have since gone on to receive the prestigious Bespoke Guild Mark award.

For visitors, the exhibition is a glimpse into the future of furniture design, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the next generation.

If you’re passionate about furniture design, this is an event not to be missed.

Find out what a role in the UK furniture and furnishing industry has to offer by reading the inspirational stories and achievements of people who are successfully forging careers in the sector.