Owen Hughes Workshop/Mobile 077 093 18634 Chairmakers began its life in 1989 as Hughes Brothers CabinetMakers. Since around 1997 Owen Hughes has specialised in the difficult world of handmade chairs. During the latter part of the Hughes Brothers partnership, Owen became heavily influenced by the American Shaker movement, particularly their early years. Owen uses local timbers that grow in Devon, Oak, Ash, Beech, Elm, Field Maple and Yew being the main choices but included in this list are timbers like Hazel, Rowan, Alder, Birch, Wild Cherry and all the fruiting species. The timbers, whenever possible, are naturally cleft - that is- split along their length with a variety of tools. Doing this retains absolute strength top to bottom and an element of flexibility side to side. They are used green or partially seasoned. Working this way allows Owen to create chairs that are light in weight, very strong, flexible and aesthetically pleasing. As the seasoning process continues after the chair has been made, sockets shrink onto the rails, thus making the joints even more secure. There are an infinite number of variations and options when designing a new chair and Mr Hughes welcomes enquiries from clients who wish to discuss their particular requirements in a friendly informal conversation or via e-mail communication. |
Shaker Chair No.5 This example has its roots firmly in Shaker design. It is made from prime Ash felled at Templeton Bridge with a black tape seat. The slats are from an Olive Ash tree felled in Tiverton. |
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