Phoenix Woodcrafts Contemporary Designs in Reclaimed Wood

Table lamps inspired by coast and country Bowls functional or sculptural Other items for kitchen and living Thrones outdoor furniture with a difference Return to Home page

Philosophy Phoenix Woodcrafts is Andy Gill and Kate Fox. Our trading name originated from our early work, the materials for which was exclusively sourced from tree surgeons waste. This was often destined for firewood or the chipper. As our work evolved we became increasingly aware of the huge amounts of wood being thrown away all around us. We now source our materials from a wide variety of people and places including - local wood recycling projects, the South Downs ranger service, a charcoal burner, farmers, tree surgeons, joiners, sawmills, skips and beaches. Sometimes we buy wood from these sources and occasionally we are allowed to take it for free. It's amazing how quickly a pile of wood increases in value when you express an interest in it! Our work is often directed by the materials we have available. The popular small chopping boards we make are made from the 'hole' in the centre of wooden toilet seats. The local company that manufactures these toilet seats landfill up to three tonnes of offcuts a week. The offcuts are small ovals up to 9 inches diameter which we turn on a lathe into simple chopping boards. These are ideal for cooks who want a separate board for strong flavours, to serve cheese or bread at the table, or just for those who want a small chopping board. And don't worry.... these chopping boards have never been anywhere near a toilet and wood is an ideal hygienic material for food preparation. At the other end of our portfolio are the wooden lamps we make from old fence posts and sea defences. This wood is often heavily weathered and full of character. We leave most of the weathering intact, only brushing and burnishing the surface, but we turn and polish the end grain to provide a wonderful contrast and give a glimpse of the interior.   We take our work seriously. Great attention is paid to the quality of finish and no piece is placed for sale if it is in any way sub-standard. All our work is finished with a product from the 'Organoil' range of organic, plant oil based and food safe oils and waxes.