Inspiring Fine Furniture Makers.....
At UK Hardwoods, we pride ourselves on not only providing the finest British-grown timber but also fostering a deeper understanding of its value and sustainability. This mission goes beyond simply supplying timber—it’s about education, collaboration, and sharing knowledge to ensure that British wood is appreciated and used responsibly. This is why hosting students and craftsmen from esteemed institutions, such as Rowden Atelier, is such an important part of what we do.
Each year, we welcome students from Rowden Atelier, a Devon based, internationally recognized school of fine furniture-making. The partnership between UK Hardwoods and Rowden isn’t just a transactional one; it’s a relationship built on shared values. Both our teams believe in the importance of sustainability, craftsmanship, and, most importantly, the responsible use of British-grown timber.
A Day of Learning and Exploration......
When the students arrived at our sawmill, there was a palpable sense of excitement. For many, this visit is their first time witnessing the entire process—from tree to board. It’s a unique experience that offers them a behind-the-scenes look at how the timber they will one day work with is carefully selected, milled, and processed.
The day began with a tour of our facilities, where students had the opportunity to see the various stages of production. We emphasized the importance of understanding the origin of the wood they will work with, sharing insights into how each tree is selected for felling, ensuring minimal impact on the environment. Seeing the raw material in its natural form helped students appreciate the connection between sustainable forestry and fine craftsmanship.
The Importance of British-Grown Timber ......
One of the key messages we aim to impart during these visits is the significant role British-grown timber plays in both the local economy and the environment. By choosing to work with locally sourced wood, we not only reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also support sustainable forestry practices here in the UK.
As part of the visit, we delved into the specific properties of British species such as oak, ash, and chestnut, explaining why these timbers are ideally suited for a variety of applications, from furniture-making to flooring. The group were particularly excited about our latest addition to our product portfolio – Thermally Modified Cladding.
Spreading the Word, One Student at a Time ......
We’re grateful for opportunities like this to engage with the next generation of artisans and share our passion for British-grown wood. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Rowden Atelier and many other institutions, helping to foster a future where the sustainable use of timber is at the forefront of craftsmanship.
