Bespoke Guild Mark Holder
Spitfire Chair
Name of Designer:
Ian Burnell
This chair is a celebration of my love for birds, flight, and the iconic Supermarine Spitfire, a key defender of Britain during WWII. Specifically, it draws inspiration from the Mark Vb, the main production version of the Spitfire. Its striking wide backrest takes its shape from the clipped wings of the Mark V variant, designed to enhance the aircraft’s manoeuvrability. The chair’s grounded stance mirrors the poised elegance of the Spitfire at rest, evoking a sense of readiness and grace.
Equally important is the chair’s commitment to sustainability. Crafted entirely from locally sourced English Oak, it features a hand-woven paper cord seat and a single-piece backrest that has been steam-bent without the use of plastic adhesives like epoxy. Each armrest has been meticulously hand-carved, and the natural wax oil finish is VOC-free, ensuring no toxic chemicals were used in its making. This design embodies both a reverence for history and a low-carbon future.
Born and raised in Ireland, Ian always had a passion for making things. Having completed his degree in Product Design, he retrained at Robinson House Studio, where he produces several bespoke pieces including the Mark Vb lounge chair. He designs both one off, bespoke pieces as well as small batch run furniture. He has a keen eye for detail which he perfected training under some of the best makers and designers in the industry.
