Cracket Backless Bench, Stourhead Sweet Chestnut

This collection takes inspiration from Arts and Crafts furniture in the Trusts’ collections including stools and tables from Standen and Stoneywell cottage. Using Grown in Britain certified sweet chestnut, sourced from sustainably managed woodlands at Stourhead, each piece is handcrafted in limited editions by students at Sylva Wood School. They use a traditional chamfering technique to lighten simple forms and create geometric shapes. These honest, traditional craft processes create visual interest without the need for any additional ornament. Each bench has been handcrafted using traditional techniques to refine a simple form. Tapered chamfers have been used to elevate the top surfaces and lighten the legs. A spokeshave has been used to cut an elegant, curved chamfer at the bottom of each leg. Through tenons have been employed to provide a strong and honest connection between the seat and legs. It has been hand-finished using a traditional, durable oil finish.