Nicholas Hobbs
A designer maker, in business since 1993, my bespoke furniture is inventive, functional, decorative and tells something of the client, whilst remaining low key, appropriate to its setting.
From the start, I work closely with each client which helps develop the brief, keep them informed of progress and ensuring that the furniture will be unique to the commissioning client.
I prefer that my furniture be well used rather than just admired.
The poem ‘Things men have made’ by D H Lawrence, sums up what I aim to achieve.
Behind the Scenes
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About My Practice
Influenced by Ruskin, Morris and the Barnsleys (Cotswolds), my work over three decades of practice is deemed contemporary Arts and Crafts.
Designs are hand drawn, allowing mind and body to work in unison from the very start.
Materials are carefully sourced and selected for each commission, and whilst machines do the heavy work, hand cut traditional jointing is used throughout, often left exposed as a tactile design feature.
A fluid process throughout, drawings then scale models are prepared for viewing in situ and discussion, perhaps later incorporating modifications before undertaking the full size item(s).
Over the years, I have undertaken commissions for private clients, for religious settings and for public collections.
Tools & Materials
Based in North Cumbria near the Scottish Border, with full workshop facilities to carry out a very broad range of work, mainly involving wood from multiple sources, but also incorporating metals, fabrics, and other precious materials where specified. This ranges from jewellery boxes to full suites of liturgical furnishings for Cathedrals, with much else in between!
Despite the acquisition of equipment, etc, over the years, my hands have proven to be the most flexible tool.
Examples of work
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Spring Fling Activity
1. Demonstrating how laminations are made and work, in both scale model and full size forms.
2. Identification of woods/timbers from a selection of ten to fifteen worldwide.







