Hardwoods are a beautiful material. Just like people, there are never two pieces the same. They can take a few knocks and come out looking better than before (unlike veneered chipboard!). They lend a unique quality to my furniture. Several years ago I built some worktops for a client. They told me they found a favourite place to sit at, because the grain in the wood is particularly special just there!

I try to use as much sustainable local timber as possible. This comes from Northumberland and the Scottish Borders. I’m happy to use tropical hardwoods if that’s what you want, but so far I’ve managed to talk most people out of it!

I regularly use Oak, Walnut, Elm, Maple, Cherry, Beech, Ash, Sycamore, Birch and Chestnut.