Natural materials will form an integral part of the post-pandemic workplace. From sleek, pale ash to showstopping walnut, here’s why bespoke solid timber furniture is the perfect choice…
It’s been a long time coming, but the rapid roll-out of the vaccination programme is finally breathing a sense of optimism into the UK. And as we ease ourselves back towards normality, a safety-conscious return to the office is at the forefront of our thoughts.
Despite the bleak outcries of 2020, predicting the death of the office, it seems millions are now looking forward to returning part time at least. People are craving the chance to collaborate face to face, grab a coffee and communicate without staring at a screen.
However, there has also been a seismic shift. The pandemic has fuelled a demand for healthier spaces, transforming them from a luxury to a non-negotiable. Simultaneously, it’s intensified our connection with nature, as we’ve instinctively sought solace in our gardens, forests and fields.
So, it’s perhaps little surprise that natural materials – like solid timber furniture, stone flooring and living plants – will form an integral part of the post-pandemic workspace. Along with natural light and ventilation, the emphasis is on creating biophilic paces that draw the outside in. Not only will this be vital for attracting and retaining talent, it has huge benefits for wellbeing too.
Of course, at Forest & Maker we are passionate about harnessing the myriad benefits of the great outdoors. Here are three ways our bespoke solid timber furniture can bring your office space alive…
If there’s one thing working from home has taught us all, it’s that desking is a worthwhile investment. Give employees a desk that supports their comfort, both physically and psychologically, and you help them thrive.
At Forest & Maker, we know that solid timber desking offers unbeatable benefits for wellbeing. But you don’t have to take our word for it – consider the research. Being exposed to elements of nature, from greenery to natural timbers, is widely reported to help lower blood pressure and stress levels, while boosting creativity and cognitive performance too. Faced with the surge in fatigue and mental health difficulties triggered by COVID-19, this has never been more important.
Of course, our solid timber desks can also be completely customised to answer any challenges posed by our post-pandemic world. Perhaps you need to decrease density and opt for larger work stations, so staff aren’t crammed in. Or maybe you’re simply switching up the layout, to add a sense of space. Whatever your unique situation is, our design team can craft a solution.
Take one of our current projects for example, handcrafting a series of bespoke desks for a London-based business. Made from British ash, the unique design features integral planters, which allow greenery to be seamlessly knitted into the space.
Likewise, we recently handcrafted seating for 700 people at Working From_, the art deco co-working space at The Hoxton Hotel. Made from British ash, the desks range from single-seaters to an impressive seven-metre expanse, illustrating just how flexible our brief can be.
It may be a space for collaboration and creative thinking, but the boardroom is about far more than that. This is the space where dreams are realised, documents are signed and far-reaching decisions are made.
Our solid timber boardroom tables breathe life into the beating heart of the business. These are one-of-a-kind pieces, handcrafted into any size or shape, from oval to rectangular or round (or anything in between). From characterful pippy oak to rare rippled walnut or pale British ash, we offer a vast choice of sustainably sourced timber and finishes too.
About as far from ‘off the shelf’ as you can get, these tables have their own unique story that’s a joy to share with everyone, from clients to colleagues. They ignite creativity, spark ideas and form a talking point.
Take, for example, the striking conference table we handcrafted for Jacada Travel. Made from honey-hued pippy oak, the 3metre meeting table is sculpted from one vast log. Peppered with intricate knots and with an organic ‘live’ edge, this is tactile timber furniture at its attention-grabbing best.
Likewise, when Nando’s challenged us to create a statement meeting table for their London HQ, we scoured a series of sawmills to find six exceptional slabs of rippled walnut. The upshot? A stunning showpiece, measuring a staggering 4.6metres in length.
Whether it’s an open plan, multipurpose space or more traditional entrance office, the reception area instantly reflects a brand’s identity. Get it right, and it leaves a lasting first impression on clients – plus it gives employees a sense of pride and belonging too.
Of course, the reception desk forms a focal part of this and, with our bespoke designs, you can be sure to inject an impact. Take for example the bespoke reception desks we crafted for the London and Milan offices of asset management platform, Aytpical Partner. Made from British oak, the sleek designs make a subtle statement, yet they tick all the boxes for practicality too.
From gently curving reception desks with built in storage to live-edge showstoppers, all our reception furniture is completely customisable. And in addition to an impressive array of timbers we offer a multitude of finishes. Ranging from subtle tinted oils to distinctive graphite shades, these can ensure the furniture either stands out, or blends into, a space. Whatever your vision, we’ll bring it to life. And if you don’t yet have a vision, we’ll help you create one too.
Forest & Maker specialise in solid timber bespoke furniture. To discover more about our process, click here.
