DESIGNER PROFILE

Tom Raffield’s brought wooden steam bending up to date

Do you have a background in design?

I studied 3D Design for Sustainability at Falmouth University and it was there that I started playing with the possibilities of steam bending – an ecologically sound process of manipulating wood, traditionally associated with boat building. After a while, I developed my own techniques, which brought many of my ideas to life. Once you master the skill it’s highly addictive; I can’t get enough of it!

Talk us through the design process.

I have an amazing team that I work with on a day-to-day basis. I often come up with initial ideas alone, but my team are instrumental in making them a reality. I create sketches, and then hand it over to our CAD designer who draws them on a computer. We create prototypes and fine-tune details, before handing the final design over to our lighting or furniture team to bring to life.

Where are you based?

I’m lucky enough to live in an amazing part of Cornwall, surrounded by six acres of ancient woodland. We’ve recently After discovering the art of wooden steam bending at university, Cornwall-based designer Tom Raffield quickly set about bringing the technique into the 21st century moved our workshop to Falmouth. It’s much bigger than our last, with lots of light and space. It’s great to have everyone under the same roof.

What’s your inspiration?

Nature is a big source of inspiration for my work. I’m fascinated by the seasons and how they change the woodland around my home. I observe the patterns and shapes I see and try to frame them in my own way.

Where do you source your materials?

All of our wood comes from sustainable sources in the Pyrenees. We’ve learnt through trial and error which woods respond well to the steam bending process. Ultimately ash, oak and walnut are the trio of woods around which our current range is based.

What’s been your career highlight so far?

There have been lots, but our home featuring on Grand Designs was a big one. The idea was to create a space that seamlessly blends into its surroundings, blurring the boundaries between nature and inside by utilising timber from our own woodland, rocks from the original excavation site and steam bending talents from our team. That really helped the business and the reception and interest it still generates today is really humbling.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself?

Enjoy every moment – you only get to experience it once!