Young Furniture Makers award winners announced

The Furniture Makers’ Company has announced the winners of its Young Furniture Makers Awards and Prizes at the 2024 Young Furniture Makers exhibition.

Almost 70 designs from emerging designer-makers were exhibited at the inspirational one-day event, which was set up over 15 years ago for school children, students and graduates to showcase their work to the design community and connect with potential employers.

The exhibition opened at 1.00pm with excited visitors quickly filling the two venues to see the incredible designs on show. In addition to the stunning furniture and lighting on display, guests and exhibitors were treated to five short informative seminars that formed a Talks Programme.

The anticipation and excitement of the exhibition built throughout the day with the event culminating with a drinks reception and the announcement of the 2024 Young Furniture Makers Awards. Hundreds of people packed out the Dutch Church to hear which pieces had been named top of their category, with special guest John Makepeace OBE, one of the UK’s preeminent furniture makers, announcing this year’s winners. The winners of the awards were:

• School Design Prize sponsored by KI: Nautical Bench by Madaleine Richardson
• Apprentice Award, sponsored by Achieve and Partners: Wrapped Grain Walnut Tambour Record Cabinet by Stanley Mackintosh from Bill Cleyndert + Company
• Bespoke Award, sponsored by Axminster Tools: Oomugi – a Japanese Whisky Shrine by Ed Ryland
• Design Award, sponsored by NaughtOne: ‘Torsion’ Dresser Sideboard by Tom Wilkinson-Dix
• Textiles Award, sponsored by House of Sonnaz: Cove by Eva Ellis
• Best Chair in Show Prize, sponsored by Meon by Gaze Burvill: Verne Easy Chair by Kevin Tronel
• Best in Show Prize, sponsored by Blum: Diamond + Pearls Chair by Tomer Arad
• Fast Track Prize, sponsored by F.I.R.S.T MW: Cove by Eva Ellis

During the prizegiving, Brian Ahern, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, presented John with a handmade commemorative box to mark his 40 years of dedication to the Company.

Brian said: “The Young Furniture Makers exhibition once again highlighted the outstanding and extraordinary design talent present in the UK. We are deeply thankful to our exhibition and award sponsors, whose continued commitment makes this inspiring event possible every year. I would especially like to express my gratitude to our principal sponsor, Tizo Limited, for their generous support.”

John Makepeace OBE, guest of honour, added: “It was exciting to see a variety of innovative ideas but also an impressive level of craftsmanship, both in wood and fibre.”

Nick Groves, CEO at Tizo, principal sponsor of the Young Furniture Makers exhibition, said: “It was a fantastic privilege to be a small part of the day, sponsoring the event. We had a real opportunity to gain an insight into the level of talent on show. It’s inspiring to see such exceptional talent and creativity from the next generation of designers and makers. Supporting young talent is crucial to the future of the industry, and we are thrilled to be part of an event that celebrates innovation and craftsmanship. Congratulations to all the participants and winners — you are the future of the industry.”

Ed Ryland, winner of the Young Furniture Makers Bespoke Award, said: “Being recognised among the many incredible talents showcased at this year’s inspiring Young Furniture Maker exhibition is a true honour. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone at Waters and Acland for patiently transmitting their passion for creativity and craftsmanship through expert tuition and unwavering support.”

Eva Ellis, winner of the Young Furniture Makers Textiles Award and Fast Track Prize, concluded: “Showcasing my work at the Young Furniture Makers exhibition was an incredible experience. It was a privilege to exhibit my chair, Cove, alongside such talented designers and to connect with industry professionals. I enjoyed discussing the future of sustainable upholstery and the potential of 3D knitting. I’m grateful for the positive reception my design received from the judges, industry, and public. Winning the Textile Award was a fantastic surprise, and to receive the Fast Track Prize as well, truly exceeded my expectations. I’m looking forward to working with industry expert Malcolm Walker, over the next 12 months, to gain valuable industry experience.”