Meet the YFM exhibitors – Kevin Tronel

The Young Furniture Makers exhibition, our special one-day event showcasing furniture, lighting and textile designs from emerging designer-makers to employers and key players in the furnishing industry, returns to the City of London this October.

The event, which is principally sponsored by Tizo  with logistics support from Celtheath, will take place on Wednesday 2 October at Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church in Austin Friars, London.  

In the run-up to the exhibition, we’ll be meeting some of this year’s exhibitors who are looking forward to meeting our members and people from industry.

Name: Kevin Tronel

Exhibits: Verne Easy Chair and Marcel Dog Bed

Tell us about the product you’re exhibiting. What’s the story behind it?

The Verne Easy Chair is designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind. The idea was to create a stylish, comfortable chair that invites relaxation while also being practical. The large armrests were intentionally designed to provide space for essentials like a book or a drink, making it perfect for unwinding. Another key consideration was ensuring the chair could be efficiently produced in batches, making it ideal for both individual and large-scale manufacturing. The Marcel Dog Bed, on the other hand, reimagines what a pet accessory can be. It’s not just about providing comfort for your furry friend but also adding a touch of elegance to your home. The design merges style with function, making the dog bed a piece that complements your interior while offering your pet a cozy, stylish place to relax. Both products highlight a commitment to combining form, function, and repeatability in production.

What was the most challenging part of bringing them to life?

The most challenging part of bringing these pieces to life was striking the perfect balance between practicality, comfort, and aesthetics. For the  Verne Easy Chair, the large armrests had to be functional while maintaining a sleek, stylish look. Ensuring the chair was comfortable for prolonged use without adding unnecessary bulk required meticulous design and material choices. Additionally, designing it for batch production added complexity, as the construction needed to be both efficient and consistent in quality. With the  Marcel Dog Bed, the challenge lay in making a piece that was as visually appealing as any other piece of furniture in a home, while still providing the softness and support a pet needs. Combining these elements meant careful consideration of proportions, materials, and finishes to ensure that neither comfort nor style was sacrificed. Balancing these dual objectives made the journey from concept to final product both rewarding and demanding.

What do you hope to get out of being part of the Young Furniture Makers exhibition?

I hope to connect with like-minded designers, makers, and industry professionals who share our passion for creativity and craftsmanship.

Who is your design hero and why?

It’s hard to choose just one influence when so many great designers have shaped my approach. Robin Day stands out for his clean designs and innovative use of materials—his ability to merge functionality with timeless style is something I really admire. Jacques Hitier is another key influence; his utilitarian furniture manages to be highly practical without ever compromising on aesthetics, which is something I aim for in my own work. And finally, Dieter Rams’ philosophy, especially his “less but better” approach, always resonates with me and guides me when refining a design. Each of these designers embodies a balance of function, beauty, and innovation that continues to inspire me.

What are your career aspirations? 

My career aspirations include expanding my portfolio and creating a collection that can be sold through retailers, while still offering a bespoke service for clients seeking unique, tailored pieces. I want to balance producing accessible, well-crafted designs with the creativity and personalisation that bespoke projects allow. Additionally, I’m considering launching a separate brand focused exclusively on luxury dog beds, combining high-end design with comfort for pets. The goal is to establish a brand that offers both stylish, functional furniture and customisable, one-of-a-kind pieces that cater to clients’ individual needs.

Which company would you love to work for one day?

Choosing just one is tough, but working for Fritz Hansen would be a dream. Their legacy of combining timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship aligns perfectly with my aspirations. The opportunity to be part of a company renowned for its iconic furniture and innovative approach would be incredibly inspiring.

How do you think you’d react if you won a Young Furniture Makers Award?

Winning a Young Furniture Makers Award would be an amazing end to an already incredible year at the Chippendale International School of Furniture. It would truly be the cherry on top of a rewarding journey and provide a significant confidence boost. The recognition would affirm the hard work and dedication put into designing and creating, and it would fuel my passion to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas in my craft.