Behind the design: Turner Carver

A product that Charles Dedman first exhibited at The Furniture Makers’ Company’s Young Furniture Makers exhibition a few years ago, the Turner Carver has now received the ultimate accolade of being awarded a Design Guild Mark.

We caught up with Charles to find out more about the design journey of the Turner Carver.

What initially inspired you to make the Turner Carver?

My initial inspiration for the Turner Carver was the clean forms steam bending offers. Experimenting in my coastal workshop, I started with the armrest and translated the proportions to the turned components throughout the chair.

Can you explain the concept for the design?

The concept for the Turner Carver is one of ultimate simplicity. I wanted to limit and celebrate the techniques of turning and steam bending.

How have you struck the balance between function and design with it?

The balance between function and design was achieved through an evolutionary process. The concept and design parameters were mocked up early on, then through prototyping and experience I tweaked the form to offer the essential support and comfort expected for a domestic chair.

Who does it appeal to?

The Carver has wide appeal due to its honesty and inoffensive shape. It’s amazing how the aesthetic of the Carver changes with timber selection and finish. The textured black ash Carver appeals to a more contemporary market, whereas the oak is a bestseller to more traditional customers.

What modifications did you make along the way?

The current Carver is in its fifth incarnation. The form has changed as my steam bending technique has improved and adjusted to be more cost effective in production. There are many similarities from the production piece and original softwood mock up, but the largest changes came when I collaborated with chair makers Sitting Firm.

What was the most challenging aspect of the design?

The most challenging part of the design is definitely the steam bent arm. It appears simple and effortless but is a very technical part of the piece. The bends have to be secured at three points and a thorough understanding of the timber’s natural movement overtime is needed to prevent the Carver’s joints failing.

For more information, go to www.charlesdedman.co.uk or follow Charles on Instagram: @charlesdedman