Five minutes with a Young Furniture Maker – Matthew Pembery

Matthew Pembery, a member of the Young Furniture Makers, first came into contact with The Furniture Makers’ Company when he was awarded a School Design Prize.

We sat down with him to find out how the Young Furniture Makers has helped him.

What made you want to pursue a career in design?

Design is very enjoyable while still being challenging, and it gives you the real opportunity to make a positive impact on other people’s lives in so many ways. Within design there are so many opportunities and that is what appeals to me.

When did you decide you wanted to work in design?

Since I was 12 or 13 I was interested in studying architecture, but after completing work experience in London, when I was 17, I decided that was what I wanted to study at university.

How did you find out about the Young Furniture Makers?

My teacher awarded me the School Design Prize, awarded by The Furniture Makers’ Company, in 2016 for my GCSE school project and I researched the company after receiving the award and learnt more about the great work that they do.

What made you want to be in the Young Furniture Makers?

I signed up because of the numerous opportunities that they provide, as advertised on their website. I thought that continuing to stay in contact with them as I grow as a young designer would be beneficial, and it has been.

How has being part of the Young Furniture Makers helped you?

Being part of the Young Furniture Makers was particularly beneficial for me when completing my A2 Product Design Coursework. I was looking for an external opinion and review of the product which I designed and made. I was assisted with this and I was able to receive insightful feedback on my project from a bespoke furniture maker, which was facilitated by being part of the Young Furniture Makers.

Would you recommend the Young Furniture Makers to others?

Definitely! I believe that being part of the Young Furniture Makers has benefited me as a person and motivated me to work to a higher standard. It has also helped my UCAS application and A-Level project and everybody has always been very helpful!

What is your favourite design of all time?

Personally, I really like all of Tom Raffield’s work and the sustainable ethos of the furniture he has created.

What is your ultimate career goal?

To improve the lives of the people which my designs impact and the quality of the global environments where the product is sourced from, made in, and used within.

If you are new to the furnishing industry, you can join the Young Furniture Makers for free by registering here.