Meet the YFM exhibitors – Laura Maia Power

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: Laura Maia Power

Exhibits: Crossed Leg Stool

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

As someone who struggles to sit properly on normal seats, I wanted to design a stool to sit on with crossed legs and room to wiggle. The stools shape is inspired by Turkish pouffes. I wanted the rounded sides to make it look squishy and comfortable. I added in a woven shelf just below the seat, the idea being to have somewhere to put snacks or books. The stool is designed to be practical, comfortable and something that can fit into any home.

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

The design was very clear in my mind but I struggled trying to insert it into a CAD program!

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

I’m looking forward to the opportunity to meet other designers and makers! I’d also love any employment or collaboration opportunities that could come from the exhibition.

Who is your design hero and why?

I love the designer Joseph Walsh. He and his team make wood look like water and the negative spaces the pieces create are as beautiful as the pieces themselves.

What are your career aspirations? 

I’m currently seeking employment. I’d love to work in a company that uses lots of hand tools and traditional techniques. I also love the idea of building larger structures. There is a wonderful tree house company in India that builds beautiful organic looking houses while trying to disturb the trees as little as possible.

Which company would you love to work for one day?

Bibbings and Hensby in east london. They make a range of pieces which are simple yet incredibly elegant.

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

I’d be thrilled and it would be incredibly flattering.