The Logbook: Vol. 5
Welcome to the Tom Raffield Logbook: Vol. 5. Our latest edition exploring all the recent news from our design studios and workshops in Cornwall.
Head to your favourite cosy corner, and catch up with us...
OUR POSITIVE IMPACT
This past year has allowed us to make great strides on our strategy for crafting a brighter future. Great design is about more than just the products we make. It’s every step of the process and every material sourced - all our choices have to be kind to the planet and those who live here. Sustainability is at the heart of each decision we make, ensuring we are maintaining our social practices and following up with our sustainability pledges.
NEW IN!
Inspired by the striking formations of smooth sea-eroded cliff faces and ridged headlands that distinguish the north coast of Cornwall, the Leven Lighting Range adds layers of light which effortlessly elevates spaces with its tiered drum aesthetic. The Leven’s simple yet refined silhouettes add depth and drama to a range of interiors.
Meaning ‘level’ in Cornish, the Leven Range is handcrafted using tiers of curving oak or walnut timber that climb a central plywood frame summit. Each layer of sustainably sourced timber is arched in tension and secured at the seams by brass accented rivets. The unique glow that pours from each layer is unrivalled as the subtle shadows create a gentle comfort.
Glow beyond. Elevate your interior.
Projecting mesmerising shadows across your space, our range of artisan lighting designs provide a wonderous display of form, whether switched on or off.
To make sure we can deliver our commitments to you our customers, our team, our partners, and the planet, we remain focused on improving the way we do business.
We started this long before the word “sustainability” was fashionable. For us, this is a calling and not just a business. A calling that we put our heart and soul into - and have for over a decade. Throughout our company’s history, we have been guided by our founding values, which compel us to put people and the planet first.
THROUGH OUR CRAFT WE AIM TO:
- Create new ways of living with unique, quality homewares that are inspired by nature and handmade to last a lifetime using traditional craft processes in sustainable and innovative ways.
- Have a positive impact on our planet, helping to create a world where people and nature thrive for future generations to enjoy.
- Break down the social challenges of diversity in the design, arts and crafts industries and strive to inspire a like-minded, conscious community.
Explore our range of unique artisan wall lights. Instantly bringing your room to life, wall lamps will enhance the ambience in your space, providing a gentle atmospheric glow. The importance of using a variety of light sources in an interior space is paramount. By introducing wall lights into your space, you can create effects, mark points and define sections of interest.
Whether you are seeking a bright light to aid everyday tasks, or a subtle warm glow to create a cosy atmosphere in the evenings, wall lights can help bring the space to its fullest potential.
Our best-selling designs include the Urchin, Skipper and Cape wall mounted designs, as well as plug-in-and-go options to instantly bring your living room, bedroom or hallway to life.
The continuing popularity of houseplants and their inclusion in interior design projects far and wide is music to our eyes and ears. There are many benefits to creating interior environments that make us feel more connected to nature; also known as biophilic design. Discover some of our favourite plant-care tips you can implement at home...
Practicality & Perfect Placement - It's best to keep practicality in mind and choose the right plants your home in terms of space, light sources and drafts.
Thrive in the sunshine - Every plant has a preferred light level, so think about how light comes in and travels through your space throughout the day
Location, location - A cluster of richly diverse houseplants, displayed at different heights can make the most impact and an impressive statement.
How long have you been steam bending wood for?
TR: My fascination with steam bending wood began whilst studying at Falmouth College of Art and I continued to explore the process whilst studying 3D Design at Falmouth University. So, I guess about 20 years or so.
How long do you steam the wood for?
TR: It depends on the piece of wood in question. We use different lengths and thicknesses for every product that we make, it’s a kind of trial and error process! There’s no set rule or calculation to be honest, it’s best to experiment and keep note of what seems to work best for you.
What else can steam bent wood be used for?
TR: Steam bending is an ancient process that’s been used across a number of industries for centuries. The steam bending process is most commonly used for making instruments such as violins and guitars, walking canes, bending the hull of boats and of course, furniture making.
Which types of wood are best for steam bending?
TR: As a general rule, hardwoods tend to yield the best results - for us anyway. We use air dried ash and oak for our solid wood furniture products but other woods that work well include cherry, birch and maple. We also use walnut for our lighting ranges. You can steam bend soft woods (including pine, cedar and spruce) but if you were attempting this, again it would be best to use air dried wood - as kiln dried wood tends break or snap more easily during the bending process.
“The aim for the design was to capture a weightless aesthetic, be handcrafted from mixed materials and be as sustainable as possible, in keeping with our other steam bent products”
- Tom Raffield, Founder.
Meaning ‘Moon’ in Cornish, the Loer Pendant showcases a translucent glass orb with clouded bands of warm celestial white light which suspends within a sleek halo of supple ash wood. Held in place by brass detailed fixings that reflect the soft illustrious glow of the spherical globe when illuminated, the opulent Loer Pendant looks equally as eye-catching when switched off.
You know best
“I have a couple of these products and think they are beautiful. From the minimalist design (of the ones I chose) to the environmental ethos behind the production. I also found the entire process of selecting, ordering and delivery very straightforward. So pleased I found out about Tom Raffield.” - Nigel B.
"We bought 2 of these Neap Wall Lights for our study, together with the Drift Pendant. They are a perfect match, look fabulous paired together and finish the room off.”
- Sarah S.
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“We ordered the Tilner Mirror for our en-suite and it has certainly not disappointed us - the simplicity of design, quality and finish are exceptional. Great product.” - D Williams
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“A thing of beauty! This Artus Table Lamp is beautifully designed, looks stunning, then you switch it on and ...WOW!” - Jenny B
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“Really happy with our new Beeble Pouffe. Good craftsmanship as we have come to expect from Tom Raffield products and a great range of Abraham Moon fabrics available with the bespoke fabric option.” - Jonathan I
“My Urchin Lights are beautiful and such great quality. Customer service was excellent. The lights feel extra special because of the sustainability commitment of the business, and I love the ‘lifetime’ guarantee. I’m a bit obsessed and am going to buy some shelving next.”
- Kirsty M.
With origins rooted in the sculptural tree canopies surrounding our Cornish design studio, our collection of steam bent, ash wood storage celebrates the strength, versatility and unique character of this sustainable natural material, whilst showcasing forward-thinking design at it’s very best. The clever designs can be displayed both alone, providing smart storage solutions for compact living, or in multiples, to create a unique focal point in larger spaces.
Maximise your space with minimalist design.
Arbor Armchair - Choose furniture that defines function whilst proudly showcasing your personal style. The strength of the Arbor Armchair’s steam bent solid Pyrénéen oak arm brings intrigue and invites a tactile touch, whilst the comfort of the upholstery will bring joy to and intrigue your guests.
Beeble Pouffe - Handcrafted from sustainably sourced oak and upholstered in the highest quality wool, the Beeble Pouffe is a clever, versatile addition to any space.
Posted: 15.07.21
Updated: 01.06.23