Form follows function – that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union. – Frank Lloyd Wright
Design Considerations
by Neal Wenderlich
Early in my woodworking days, I was attracted to the design of American Arts and Crafts style furniture: large sturdy tables, chairs that balanced wood details with upholstery. I started reading books about the movement and learned to embrace the idea of heirloom furniture that is as durable and useful as it is beautiful.
Woodworking and furniture building books we have collected over the years.
The Arts and Crafts movement started in Britain in the late 1800’s by those who had grown weary of the ornate Victorian styles and also the lesser quality of items produced in factories. The founders of the British movement celebrated traditional craftsmanship and eschewed any factory parts to the point that furnishings became inaccessible to the average person due to labor costs. The American Arts and Crafts movement sought to improve the idea by balancing some small scale manufacturing with traditional craftsmanship to build and furnish homes for the average American. People were encouraged to live in harmony with nature and to furnish their homes with fewer high-quality items. Form and function was their goal – meaning items should be beautiful as well a functional.
Form and function in design of desk boxes
Wall Clock
The idea of thoughtful design in every day items has stuck with me through the years and is a strong influence on my furniture design. When I begin a project, I first consider how the item will be used. I list design constraints such as ergonomics (e.g. table height, seat depth, arm rest height), the space allocated for the finished item, and how easy it will be to move or transport. I also consider how use will stress the wood joinery to decide where the design must be reinforced for durability. Once the function criteria have been identified, I start sketching to address form. Sometimes the design is influenced by a client who has a particular style objective. If it’s up to me, I tend towards clean lines, tapered legs and contrasting wood tones to emphasize design details.
Do you have a furniture project in mind? Please email me to discuss your needs: neal@collectedhands.com.
