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Nick James is a highly skilled craftsman. He’s an advocate of both traditional and modern woodworking techniques that ensures that each piece not only showcases expert craftsmanship but also a commitment to an environmentally lead practice.
An award winning furniture maker - every piece is made by Nick and his team of skilled makers in his workshop at Mushroom Works in Newcastle upon Tyne in the UK.
After obtaining a firsct class honours degree in Applied Arts, Nick then polished his woodworking techniques whilst attending the country’s leading furniture college, Rycotewood.
Along with his team of expert makers, he uses the best time-tested methods of connecting pieces of wood by unbreakable joints and precise construction methods to create furniture that will last lifetimes.
'My work is not just about creating furniture; it's about following an approach where beauty and environmental responsibility coexist. This is the heart of my practice - a commitment to craftsmanship and the environment'.
A Love for Trees:
Each piece I make has a deep-rooted respect for trees. As a British furniture maker and woodland owner, I see my role as a guardian of this precious resource, looking after and transforming timber not just into furniture, but into stories, legacies and part of the family.
Commitment to the Environment: A Core Principle
My approach is deeply rooted in environmental stewardship. I meticulously select materials that are not just beautiful and durable but are also environmentally considerate. This efficient and thoughtful use of resources reflects my dedication to sustainability.
Intelligent Design:
I believe in intelligent design, valuing both form and function. Furniture should be more than just beautiful - it should also be practical, ergonomic, and as it is specially made to order - work well for those who commission it.
Enduring Craftsmanship:
I believe my work should last longer than me and the person who commissions it, it must withstand the test of time.
Every detail, from the flow of the grain to the precision of the joints, is meticulously considered and crafted, promising not just beauty but long lasting quality.
Alongside this - within my work, I consistently incorporate design for disassembly, ensuring that everything can be easily repaired or recycled.
Evolving Craft:
My design approach is based on curiosity, learning, and adapting, constantly enhancing and refining my methods and techniques, and exploring new and better methods of making.
Buy Once, Buy Well:
I advocate for a world where we choose longevity over disposability. My pieces represent an investment in quality and sustainability, championing the philosophy of buying less but buying better.
Personal Connection:
Each piece tells a story, from its origins in the forest to the hands that shaped it. I invite my clients to know this story, creating a personal bond that turns each item from just a piece of furniture into a cherished part of their home.
My commitment extends to celebrating a narrative that understands and values craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Collaborating with clients is vital, generating a space for creative exchange and the creation of truly bespoke pieces that are valued in every way.
A Legacy of Beauty and Responsibility:
I aspire to leave behind furniture that is beautiful, useful and has a respect for our planet. Each piece carries within it a narative that shows its value, a respect for nature, and a pledge to future generations.
In 2003 he returned to his native Newcastle to start his own business. Nick’s passion for natural materials and intelligent design is central to his practice. Awards include The Worshipful Company of Furniture Maker’s Trophy For Excellence In Craft Skills. In addition to working to commission and producing limited edition pieces Nick regularly creates work for exhibition.
Most of my work is made to commission and sold online, I do also stock selected shops and galleries both in the UK and further afield. If you are interested in becoming a stockist please see Trade and Wholesale.
As trees are so important to what I do, I have my own woodland and nurture and cultivate some of the wood I use. I re-invest some of the profit from my business in to looking after and maintaining the woodland, caring for and nuturing trees helps helps to complete the circle as it helps to lessen our impact on the environment [and so furniture makers in years to come will have trees to make beautiful furniture from!] Spending time amongst the trees is also something which is valuable, enriching and restorative, and is often where I have my best ideas!
Nick is also an entrepreneur. In 2005 he set up The Mushroom Works, the first of his artists’ studios in which he could work alongside many of Newcastle’s leading designers and artists. It has been recognised internationally for its unique environment and creative network. Other studio developments followed.
learn more about Nick's woodland
learn more about Nick's woodland