350  Furniture and wood products from reclaimed materials

Enormous quantities of sound timber from demolition activities are landfilled.  Most originated from slow growing trees, and is of a higher quality than is available today.  A cheap scanner can identify nails which need removing.  With minimal cleaning, in many cases it can provide an attractive and durable construction material, retaining patina and distress marks characteristic, for example, of 'old pine' furniture.  

Companies with the letter (T) by their names receive the Salvo Theft Alert which notifies them of stolen items and any removed from listed buildings without consent.  This supports efforts to ensure good practice in stock purchasing in the reclamations trade.  

THE WASTEBOOK encourages our site visitors to buy from companies using outlets selling reclaimed woods (also see section 23 Timber reclamation).  Doing this reuses wood that has been harvested sometimes long ago (providing beautiful mature timber with new uses) and takes no wood from existing woodlands.  It also rescues useful and often splendid timbers from being destroyed, or rendered useless in landfill sites that scar our countryside.  It may therefore be argued that this has environmental advantages over buying wood and wood products even from sustainably managed local (UK) woodlands.  This follows the government's hierarchy of action on waste, which is, in order of priority:  Reduce, Reuse or Repair, before Recycling.  Reclaimed timbers can be found in uses varying from household accessories and furniture, to residential and building restoration projects, and can be well suited to business premises.

Identifying and buying from sources offering reclaimed woods can also help develop sustainable industries.  Architectural salvage companies may in future become an even greater source of quality reclaimed woods.  An interesting development, with potential to considerably expand reclaimed timber supply, is that some architectural salvage companies have become demolition experts or associated with demolition companies.  This helps stem the regular destruction during demolition of many valuable materials (crushed, burnt, or sent to landfill sites that scar the country landscape).  Timber is often thrown away.  Much of it is stronger and more attractive, because of maturity, than virgin timbers offered by retailers and merchants.  Companies combining demolition with salvage offer deals which lessen costs, by rescuing valued materials for reuse and resale - the reclaim values can be set against demolition costs.  This considerably reduces waste; and produces an increase in resources for renovation and rebuild, including rare, beautiful and valuable woods, bricks, and exterior and interior fittings.  It is a good opportunity for anyone interested in finding and using quality timbers, and buying timber from such companies should help the industry to develop supply.

Landfill charges and taxes amounting to an average of £80 per 20-tonne load nevertheless see in excess of a billion tonnes of brick tipped into landfill sites every year.  The amount of useable timber incinerated is similar.  The developer / site owner bears the price, in lost salvage revenues and costs passed on by demolition contractors.

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Who's selling green garden furniture?  Go to this link!
www.greenpeace.org.uk/Products/GFG/home.html
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Reasons for cheerfully building from reclaimed timbers, parts 1, 2, and.....  
(from www.iobuild.co.uk/bespoke.htm) :

Ease of Construction  -  Timber frames can be speedily erected and made watertight, even in wet weather that would hinder construction of log-effect leisure buildings or traditional brick or block buildings.

Thermally Efficient  -  Wood is an effective insulating material even before additional insulating materials are added.  Timber-frame buildings are cheaper to heat and so reduce carbon emissions.

Conserves Energy  -  The energy used to manufacture timber frame buildings is low.  In contrast conventional building materials have an extremely high impact on the environment.  During construction of a concrete building, 75% of total energy expended is used in the manufacture of the building materials.  

Low Environmental Impact  -  Timber is environmentally friendly provided it comes from well-managed forests.  Unlike conventional materials, wood is a sustainable resource, as more managed European softwood is planted than cut down.

Durability and Longevity  -  Timber frames can last as long as any other type of building construction.  According to the Timber Frame Association there are Norwegian churches which are over 1,000 years old, and 200 year-old buildings in UK.  They were built from the same types of  wood employed today.

Low Maintenance  -  Cladding and roofing materials used for timber frame construction can be chosen for their very low maintenance requirements - saving resources, and labour time.

Flexibility Of Design  -  Timber frame is highly flexible and compatible with any type of cladding.  Timber frames can be used for all low-rise buildings, from garden offices to hotels.

Acoustic Performance  -  Timber frame walls provide good sound insulation (important when working in the garden).  "If all dwellings had sound insulation as good as that measured in the party walls of timber frame dwellings, the problem of noise from neighbours would be greatly reduced" (Building Research Establishment acoustics study).

Is new wood from managed British woodlands sustainable?  
Using reclaimed wood should be considered a higher priority - and the first option - compared to using wood taken from forests and woodland.  This follows the Government's hierarchy of action on waste, which places reducing waste before re-use and repair, before considering recycling which uses more resources and materials.  If you do find yourself considering using new (virgin) wood from merchants or retail outlets, THE WASTEBOOK asks that you consider the following.  

Given widespread destruction of British woodlands in the last 40 years, some buyers, suppliers and makers of wood products have  concerns that increases in native timber use should not continue this destruction.  Many of these companies will argue that their business encourages sustainable management of remaining UK woodland, by providing the woods with revenue, and because they are buying and providing outlets for locally produced timber.  Some appreciate the continual need to plant new and regenerate older woodlands, by planting, say, 10 new trees for every one processed.  This can be aided by companies sponsoring tree planting schemes through local conservation groups and trusts.  

Indications of best sustainable practice from companies, and when buying wood products:  Friends of the Earth’s (FoE) Good Wood Guide lists companies and products that it respects for practices used.  You may also ask companies whether they follow FoE's Code of Conduct for the timber trade; and whether they are members of the Association for Environment Conscious Building (AECB).  You can also ask directly whether the wood used in a product or by a company is of conservation grade, and whether it is from sustainably managed woodlands.  If a wood product or a company carries the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) symbol, this is a good indication of sustainable practice, supported by a consortium of organisations such as WWF (sections 200, 230) and FoE.  Other bodies relevant to the industry include the Woodland Trust and the British Woodworking Federation (BWF).

Also see 
Timber reclamation (23)
Architectural salvage (24)
Furniture and household goods (82)
Shop and office furnishings (86)

Alphabetical list of organisations

Aaron Moore
Re-Form Furniture
Tel/Fax 01933 391490  Email aaronmoore@ntlworld.com
Website www.re-formfurniture.co.uk
35 High Street, Higham Ferrers, NORTHAMPTON, Northants NN10 8DD

African Trackwoods  
Website www.trackuk.co.uk  Email sales@trackuk.co.uk 
Tel 01488 686850  Fax 01488 686889 - 120a High Street, HUNGERFORD, Berks RG17 0LU.  Or:
Tel 0207 349 8202  Fax 01488 686889 - Antiquarius Centre, 137 Kings Road, LONDON SW3 4PW

Alby Craft Center - see Keverne Dewick below

Alistair Bromhead  
Tel 07932 674 707
Email a@abromhead.co.uk   Website www.abromhead.co.uk

Independent health, safety and environmental consultant with ten years experience.  Specialises in the furniture and timber industry, but also works for organisations in a variety of other sectors across the country.  Commissioned on retainer to a number of trade associations, and actively involved in providing advice to several hundred member companies.  Acts as a helpline adviser on environment legislation and best practice for the Government's Envirowise initiative, as well as undertaking waste minimisation counselling.  Works for individual companies, either on an ad-hoc basis or annual retainer agreement.  (Updated  July 2005

Ananas and Dansk
Tel 01502 514848   Fax 01502 514828
Email enq@ananas.co.uk  Website www.ananasanddansk.com 
The Old Coach Works, Rotterdam Road, LOWESTOFT, Suffolk NR32 2EX
(Retail and Trade Warehouse)

Can supply reclaimed pine and antique furniture.  Pine also available "in the white" (without surface finish); in clear, antique or dark pine finishes; or is suited for finishing yourself (eg gilded, painted, stained, stencilled, or wood simulated).  Also offers contemporary beech tables.  'Vast range' (eg usually over 2000 chairs stocked).  Open 8.30am-5.30pm Mon-Wed and Sat; 8.30am-8.00pm Thu; 10.30am-4.30pm Sun and Bank Holidays.  Retail outlet at Earsham Street, Bungay, Suffolk NR35 1AG, Tel 01986 893312, open 9.00am-5.30pm Mon-Sat; 10.00am-5.00pm Sun and Bank Holidays.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Art-eco
Tel 01348 811686  Mobile 07792 702 735
Website www.art-eco.co.uk  Email steve@art-eco.co.uk 
Lower Apartments, Trewrach Farm, Dinas Cross, FISHGUARD, Pembrokeshire SA42 0YA
Contact  Steve Done 

”I have never understood why a piece of furniture can not also be a sculptural object.  Where is the law that says that an object must be either one or the other, either useful or beautiful?”  Unusual pieces which might be said to be both:  striking, sleek forms which function as tables, stools, stands...  Amazing wood and slate hifi cabinet with unique doors and detailing, and similar products.  Everything made and shaped is carefully selected from recycled materials.  Recovers and uses storm damaged and fallen trees from forest floors and woods in West Wales.  Recently using Jarrah, Ash, Elm and Cherry, and slate rescued from old farm cottages and quarry spoil.  Researches best elements from sustainable or reclamation sources before starting work: must be reliable wood, good stone and fine slate.  Beautiful table with stone detail, from naturally decayed wood which would otherwise be wasted.  ‘Twisted Clock’ - cherry wood with quartz movement.  Solitaire and noughts and crosses games with brass pieces.  ‘Current projects’ web page ('something being worked on which might be interesting to a client or the world at large'):  house staircase with oak treads, ash handrail and banisters, and rope.  ‘In a wasteful world it is good to generate beauty and reclaim usefulness from discarded material.’  Admires past makers who strove to combine form and function, strength and elegance, and tries to add a contemporary slant.  Aims to make artistic objects that are strong, built for use and last a long time; that is valued just standing there.  Takes commissions.  If you want an item that has been sold, the general look can be repeated, but not an exact copy.  Work is free-form, heavily dependent on the nature of the materials and no two pieces are identical.  If you have design concepts of your own Steve is more than willing to work with you to explore your ideas.   (Updated Mar 2004)

Aston Pine
Tel 01367 243840  Fax 01367 242268
16-18 London Street, FARINGDON, Oxfordshire SN7 7AA

Antique doors and pine stripping business.  Will receive reusable wood as salvage.  Open: Wed to Sat or by appointment.  (Updated July 2001)

Bioregional Treestations                 
Tel 0208 404 4891  Email atolfts@onetel.net.uk                               
Contact  Andrew Tolfts

The loss of natural forests around the world is a major environmental concern, yet our traditional woodlands lie neglected.  The London Tree Officers Association (LTOA) (see section14 Wood waste) estimate that London generates 54,000 m3 of tree surgery waste per annum of which 51% is dumped and 11% burnt.  Yet this wood is a renewable resource which can be put to good use.  There is potential to produce a range of wood products from sawn timber to energy.  If simple forestry practices are introduced in managing urban trees, both useful lifespan and value as timber can be increased, so contributing to local sustainability. 

TreeStations are sites (either urban or rural) to which local woodland and tree managers and owners can bring woody waste, rather than sending it to landfill.  The station develops new uses for wood, and converts it into useful products.  Managing local trees and woodlands sustainably provides environmental, social and economic benefits: it reduces the environmental impact of transporting timber, and benefits people working and living locally. 

In partnership with the London Borough of Croydon, BioRegional has set up a pilot TreeStation, with a small sawmill, setting an example by good management of trees through Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification and improving the environment for local people.  Woodlands are highly valued by local residents, and local people are involved in managing four woodlands, removing invasive species and bringing back young growth and a variety of light and shade, so primroses, bluebells and other plants and animals have returned.  Management of trees in parks and gardens has improved too.  Ecological monitoring, helped by BTCV (British trust for Conservation Volunteers) has reduced the amount of waste wood going into landfill. This links with other examples of sustainable living such as the BedZED development (see sections on Green Building, Energy Use and Transport).  Some timber has been sold for pulp,  firewood or charcoal(Bioregional Charcoal Co Ltd); some wood products have been marketed locally.  Croydon is the only urban area in the world certified by FSC (see section on Environmental labelling) as a sustainably managed forest. 

Charcoal was made for 4 years from several hundred tonnes of timber, but production has stopped to avoid smoke nuisance.  Most of the wood from Croydon is to be used in a combined heat and power (CHP) plant at the recently built BedZED development.  Commissioned in February 2002, it requires 1000 tonnes of wood chip annually, closely matching the amount of wood produced in Croydon.   BioRegional is planning the first rural TreeStation in co-operation with Surrey Wildlife Trust and Surrey County Council, where there is a great range of woodland types, including a relatively large area of ancient and semi-natural broadleaved woodland.  Lessons learned will be shared through a website, site tours and seminars.  Also see entries in sections 31(paper and card), 430 (green  building), 450 (energy use) 460 (transport)   (Updated Nov 2002)

Black Cat Furniture
Tel / Fax 01525 712096
32 Church Road, Pulloxhill, BEDFORD MK45 5HE
Contact  Judith Terrell

Craft worker using discarded solid wood furniture.  Stripping pine, polishing, upholstery.  Restore items small enough to be transported by car (up to cupboard size - no 3-piece suites).  Individual commissions undertaken.  Offers of small unwanted items welcome.  Collection by arrangement.  Also buys and sells antiques.   (Updated May 2003)

Branching Out
Tel 01353 863221  Fax 08714 335807
Email general@branching-out.uk.net  Web www.branching-out.uk.net 
27 Grange Lane, Littleport, ELY, Cambs CB6 1HW
Contact  Roy Knights - Manager

Charity training people with learning disabilities, aiming to help them find work.  Produces a range of garden furniture and outdoor equipment, sold to fund training and support for students in office skills, recycling, carpentry, horticulture, retail, and catering.  Supplies wooden planters and hanging baskets, also veg grown on own land.  Refurbishes donated computers (in good condition, up to 7 years old), sells some parts and systems, and provides technical support.  Donated clothing should be washed; soft furniture needs kite mark or safety labels.  Working electrical items accepted - these are safety tested.  No white goods.  Many second-hand items on sale in charity shop.  Charge for delivery collection - £2.50 for Littleport, £5 for Ely.  Community cafe, and many community activities.  Recycling team collects used aluminium cans, foil, mobile phones, ink and toner cartridges (not Epson).  Recycles Christmas trees.  (Updated Nov 2005) 

BREWEB
Tel 01923 664454  Fax 01923 664398
Website  www.breweb.org.uk   Email  breweb@bre.co.uk
Contact  Rachel Charleston

BRE's Waste & Environmental Body facilitates ongoing environmental improvement in waste and construction industries through landfill tax sponsorship and/or collaborative partnerships in (high-profile) demonstration and research projects.  Currently projects seeking sponsorship include: furniture resource centre building materials re-use project; high grade aggregate from oil well drilling cuttings; removing barriers to the use of by-products from steel manufacturing in construction.  See also BRE, BREMAP, SalvoMIE and SmartWaste (20 Construction and demolition wastes).  (Updated August 2004)

Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project
Tel 01273 570500  Fax 01273 570600
4 Inverness Road, BRIGHTON, East Sussex BN2 3JB (postal address only) 
Unit 32-36, Municipal Market, Circus Street, BRIGHTON, East Sussex BN2 9QF (site address only)
Email info@woodrecycling.org.uk  Web www.woodrecycling.org.uk 
Contact  Richie Simpson, Managing Director; Christian Bernard - Director  

Originator of National Community Wood Recycling Project ( see entry below) set up by Richard Mehmed, and developer of the Recycled Wood Marque.   About 6,000 tonnes of wood a year is landfilled from the Brighton and Hove area alone.  Much is worth saving - the Woodstore is filled with tonnes of  reusable timber, most from the construction / demolition industry.  There is also wooden packaging waste and many non-returnable pallets. (see section 52).  Much household wood ends up at the local tip, or stays in garages and sheds for years.  As most "waste" timber is commercial, a charge can be made to take it away - at less than the cost of a skip, so there is a financial and environmental incentive to recycle.  Sponsored by 3 environmentally aware local building companies, a small truck was bought to collect from their building sites.  Timber was separated and stacked for collection.  The loads are sorted and as much as possible re-used, for instance as floorboards, skirting, shelves and craft materials.  Only 15% of the timber collected is returned to the waste stream.  Also collects from firms with packaging waste and pallets, and members of the public.  

A classification system was developed with the following grades:  
Grade 1   Timber good enough to sell back to the DIY / builders market.  Altough virtually anything will be useful to someone, grade 1 is wood at least 2 metres long, relatively sound, free from bad splits, nails and other contaminants.  Also sheet materials including ply, chipboard, hardboard and MDF over  1 metre square; doors in good condition; pieces of hardwood and anything "interesting".  Al though the wood might look dirty, it is suitable for many uses. 
Grade 2
Clean and sound, but too short or small to be easily sold for DIY.  Suitable to make wood products, from compost bins, bookshelves, art &craft items to high quality furniture.  Making and selling such items is a good way to raise cash and to get across the potential for using recycled wood.  The Recycled Wood Marque helps too, making it easier to identify recycled wood products. 
Grade 3
Around 80% of all wood waste, this grade is the biggest challenge - rotten fence posts, small offcuts, broken doors and everything that doesn't fit into the other two grades.  Much firewood is sold to local farmers with wood-fired boilers heating greenhouses;  lots is re-manufactured into chipboard.  A reasonably sustainable use for the large volume of this grade is as a fuel; one aim is to encourage installation of wood-fired heating / hot water systems in suitable buildings. With the need to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, wood could be widely used.  (Updated Nov 2005) 

Bromley Community Wood Recycling
Tel 0208 659 9992  Fax 0208 659 5258  Mob 07947 340 180  
Email  bromleywoodrecycling@hotmail.co.uk 
Oakfield Centre, Oakfield Road, Penge, LONDON SE20 8QA
Contact  Terry Cottle, Supervisor

Charity working for Shaw Trust at Oakfield Day Centre, a base for social firms - part of a 5-year rolling contract.  Collects from businesses (eg building sites) and individuals, minimum charge £70 - half the price of a skip.  Uses high cage transit, 6 cu yds - takes up to 12 yds.  Main sources two thirds builders, one third joiners.  Sells reclaimed timber in shop such as skirting, floorboards, joists, dismantled staircases and banisters, beading, sheeted wood, wooden items from house clearances.  Hard and soft wood, firewood and kindling.  Big area, with wood lathe.  Self-employed carpenter makes garden furniture: tables, benches, hand-crafted wood, bird boxes etc, associated with gardening project on same premises.  Hoping to restore household furniture.  Open 9-4 Mon-Fri 9-12 Sat.   (Updated Nov 2005)

Castle Reclaim
Tel / Fax 01787 278669
Chilton Street, Clare, SUDBURY, Suffolk CO10 8QS

Dealer in reclaimed building materials, including timber flooring.  Doors made to specification from reclaimed timber.  (Updated Nov 2005)

Carwarden Brick Co Ltd
Tel 01889 574066  Fax 01889 575695
Email sales@carwardenreclaim.co.uk  Website www.cawardenreclaim.co.uk 
Carwarden Springs Farm, Blithbury Road, RUGELEY, Staffs WS15 3HL

Chest of Drawers Ltd
Tel 0207 359 5909  Fax 020 7704 6236
Website www.chestofdrawers.co.uk  
281 Upper Street, Islington, LONDON N1 2TZ

Furniture specialist with environmental policy - concerned about producing furniture responsibly, reducing waste, and recycling.  Supports FSC certification for sustainable sources, and tries to provide credible information to customers regarding furniture sold.  Various woods including ranges of reclaimed pine furniture and antiques.  Actively searches for reclaimed timber products.  Does not order new Teak or Mahogany furniture as these woods are on endangered lists.  Recycles all cardboard packaging used in transporting furniture.  Wraps furniture in reusable padded fabric covers for protection.  Purchases recycled copy paper and re-uses backs of A4 pages.  Over half the items sold can be made to measure.  Orders taken 10-6, seven days a week. Delivery throughout London.  Advice on website about caring for furniture.  Encourages debate and comments from customers and workshops.  (Updated Feb 2004)

County Mulch
Tel 01449 721729  Fax 01449 722477
Email sales@countymulch,co.uk  Website www.countymulch.co.uk  
The Watering Farm, Creeting St Mary, Needham Market, IPSWICH, Suffolk IP6 8ND

Accepts pallets, crates, timber and manufacturing off-cuts, flooring, plywood, chipboard, other woods.  Does not accept telegraph poles, railway sleepers, painted or treated wood, cable drums.  Recycles this material into animal bedding, and bark-based playground, riding arenas and path surfacing.  Contract with Suffolk County Council collecting green waste, which is turned into horticultural mulches and compost marketed locally and throughout UK.  Website has useful, simple tips on home composting.  Recycled Specifiers Guide to recycled soil conditioners and mulches on request.  Established 1986.  (Updated Feb 2005)

Cray Kids Furniture
Tel 0208 300 8902  Fax 0208 300 9607
Email craykids@shaftesburysoc.org.uk  Website www.shaftesburysoc.org/website.asp?page=Cray%20Kids%20Furniture 
111 Cotmandene Crescent, ST PAULS CRAY, Kent BR5 2RB
Contact  Steve Bridge, Project Manager

Restorer of old wooden furniture that would otherwise be thrown away.  Also specialist maker of eye-catching, one-off recycled children's furniture and other woodwork items from reclaimed material, at affordable prices.  Only manufacturer of recycled children's furniture in London area (and possibly further afield).  Will design to your specifications.  Offers basic woodwork training to 14-21 yr olds.  Takes donations of wood and wood related materials including furniture from businesses and public.  Uses reclaimed and surplus woods - please contact the project if you have some available.  Training programme working with various youth and education agencies, to teach woodworking skills to 12 to 18 young people a year, often disadvantaged school leavers, working towards Level 1 City and Guilds woodwork qualification.  Also helps trainees improve numeracy and literacy skills.  Winner, Environmental Business Award.  Advice given on setting up similar projects - contact Chris Price, Tel 01689 832104, email cprice@shafttesburysoc.org.uk.  See also Shaftesbury Resources Centre, listed in section 82 Furniture and household goods.  (Updated Aug 2004)

Emmaus Village Carlton  
Tel 01234 720826   Fax 01234 721964   Email emmausvillage@aol.com  
School Lane, CARLTON, Beds MK43 7LQ   
Contact  Maureen and Alan Barrett, Community Leaders, or John Creasey, Project Development Manager

Self-supporting, friendly community offering homeless and unemployed people their own room independent of state benefits, and work including recycling items then sold to the public.  Open to public 10-4 Wed to Sat.  Donations of resaleable items welcome, from dining suites, wardrobes, dressing tables and beds, to smaller items.  Furniture showroom has ever-changing 'quality' bargains that could furnish an empty home.  Shops, stalls and market sell donated books, clothes, jewellery, pictures, toys, trinkets, crockery, furniture, bic-a-brac at bargain prices.  Electrical items checked and provided with PAT certificate.  Visitors can ask if unseen items are in store or to be donated shortly.  Furniture repaired and renovated in workshop, run by experienced manager.  Hoping to make bespoke furniture to order.

Fine Pine of Bedford Ltd  
Tel 01234 342873  Fax 01234 342879  
Email sales@finepineofbedford.fsnet.co.uk  Website www.finepineofbedfordltd.co.uk  
Unit 5, 2-4 Dean Street, BEDFORD, Beds MK40 3EQ

Made to measure pine furniture for any requirement (home or office), 90% made in Britain.  Started 1986 'from a garden shed with a few hand tools making bird boxes - over the years the shed grew' until bespoke furniture was hand-crafted, all from hand-sorted timber reclaimed from local demolished buildings.  Now also receives furniture "in the white" and finishes it to requirements, and sells some second-hand pieces.  Where possible acquires and restores antique pine furniture.  Strives to recycle as much waste as possible.  Sawdust is bagged and given away for pet bedding or composting.  Wood off-cuts are given away as firewood; virtually everything else is recycled through council facilities.  Would 'like to ask others to do their bit too'.  Member of Fauna and Flora International (www.fauna-flora.org).  Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun and Bank Holidays 10am-4pm.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Tel 01686 413916  Fax 01686 412176 Email fsc-uk@fsc-uk.demon.co.uk    Website http://www.fsc-uk.demon.co.uk   Unit D, Station Building, LLANIDLOES, Powys SY18 6EB, Wales

Named by the Green Claims Code as an example of "What a green claim should be", FSC is a labelling system for wood indicating that it comes from responsibly managed forests.  FSC is an international non-profit organisation founded 1993 in response to growing public demand.  It is an association of members, currently 307 from 50 countries (January 1999) representing environmental and social organisations, the timber trade and forestry industry.  To ensure independence, FSC is funded only by non-commercial donations, and fees for accreditation and membership.  FSC principles of forest management include: recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples and workers; conservation of biodiversity including water and soil, maintenance of the ecological functions of the forest; monitoring of the forest's yield and condition, social impacts; conservation of primary forests and sites of major environmental, social or cultural significance; and adherence to management principles for plantations which reduce pressure on natural forests.  Total certified area in the UK is 16,268 ha, and 12,690,848 ha globally (January 1999).

Through extensive consultation a set of standards has been developed for certifying management of British woodlands.  Accredited certification bodies in the UK are the Soil Association, Tel 0117 914 2435 (see section 440) and SGS Qualifor, Tel 01865 201212 (see below).  Over 2,000 FSC labeled products are on sale in the UK.  FSC can supply comprehensive information on sources of certified timber species and suppliers of certified wooden products worldwide.

The WWF 1995+ Group, a separate but related initiative set up in 1991, is a partnership between WWF-UK and 90 major UK companies committed to buying timber and wood products independently certified by schemes such as FSC.  Info from Catherine Graham, Tel 01483 419278, WWF UK, Branksome House, Filmer Grove, Godalming, Surrey GU7 1AB; email cgraham@wwfnet.org.

Furniture Re-use Network - see also introduction at top of page
Head Office / Administration 
Tel 01924 380587 / 01924 375252 
Email furniture.rn@virgin.net  Website www.frn.org.uk 
c/o  Community Furniture Service, The Old Drill Hall, 17a Vicarage Street North, Wakefield, WEST YORKS WF1 4JS  

Research and Development Office
Tel 0117 954 3571  Fax 0117 954 3570 
Email frn.research@btinternet.com  Website www.frn.org.uk 
48-54 West Street, St Philips, Bristol  BS2 0BL  
Contact  Craig Anderson, Development Manager (including info on white goods re-use and recycling) or Claire Franklin

Established 1989 to improve services of UK furniture re-use charities continuously, and help them support one another.  Co-ordinating body for 300 UK furniture and appliance re-use and recycling organisations - over 160 refurbish domestic appliances for re-use - collecting and passing on a wide range of safe, legally compliant household items to low income families and people in need.  Promotes re-use of household items to alleviate hardship, distress and poverty.  Brings social, economic and environmental benefit.  

Re-use of 1.5 million items per year.  Over 250,000 domestic appliances repaired annually for those who cannot afford new ones.  Diverts 63,000 tonnes of waste from landfill, and helps 5000 people work to collect and deliver furniture and appliances.  Free collection from households.  FRN members operate the largest UK fridge collection, of over 300,000 fridges a year - up to 15% are re-used.  FRN expects all members to respect principles of Community development: to interact with, empower, include and represent their local communities.  Puts human values before financial gain.  Hopes individuals receive more satisfaction from experiencing reuse, whether as donor, volunteer, staff, referral agency or household.  

Publications:
Fit for Re-use - good practice guide to operating an electrical appliance re-use, refurbishing and recycling facility.  FRN's WEEE-compliant national standard.
ARRC (Appliance Re-use and Recycling in the Community) Strategy - on implementing future work practices of organisations involved in community domestic appliance re-use, as set out in "Fit for Re-use”.  
Loading Up - good practice guide to set up and run a community-based furniture re-use organisation, including accounting systems and health and safety.  
National Standards - in eg project monitoring, evaluation, and furniture collection.

Website map allows you to click to find nearest charity receiving donated goods.  FRN is developing 35+ regional centres ARRC Centres (WEEE sorting centres) to offer full audit trail, following "Fit for re-use”.  Member organisations strive for best practice in employment, health and safety, volunteering and anti-discriminatory practice.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Green-Works
Tel 0845 230 2231  Fax 0207 981 0441
Email info@green-works.co.uk  Website www.green-works.co.uk  
(Head office)  2nd Floor, Downstream, 1 London Bridge, London SE1 9BG 
Contact  Chris Triggs (furniture to donate) or Colin Crooks on 0207 9810450 (info and membership) 

Practical service removing redundant office equipment, while tackling environmental concerns and helping local community groups.   Not-for-profit social enterprise bridging gap between organisations with redundant office and IT equipment and those needing it, like schools, charities, hospitals, community groups and start-up businesses (over 700 to date).  Also sells to individuals, SME's and other groups, mostly from regional outlets (below).  Now makes range of new furniture, Re-made as-new to order from reclaimed timber, from Wembley warehouse.  One-stop service to members, mainly commercial organisations or government bodies, to remove all unwanted office furniture and redistribute or recycle it - helping member' fulfil corporate and social responsibilities (including 'waste regulations, activity in local community, and ethical standards'); and needs of their facility management and office relocation consultants.  Supplies, and can deliver, at discount and low cost.  Range changes constantly: desks, filing cabinets, conference tables and chairs, pedestals, coat-stands, notice boards, shelving, floor panelling, waste paper bins, stationery and IT.  Also supplies reused, as-new carpet tiles in various colours, eg to replace worn tiles in busy office corridors (in partnership with Interface).  Operates in deprived inner city areas to create jobs and training for disadvantaged and disabled people.  Also exports to developing countries.  Members pay initial annual membership, based on number of employees and amount of furniture likely to be disposed, entitling them to at-cost collections.  Records destinations of all equipment donated.  Donors may use donations for marketing.  Website includes environmental advice at www.green-works.co.uk/corporateinformation/environmentaladvice/module_index.php?id=2.  Quarterly newsletter includes amounts of equipment reused and recycled.  News and events page.  Customers include: Barnardo's, Cutty Sark, Action on Pre-Eclampsia, Universities, Law Centres, Prison Reform Trust, Prince's Trust, Ozone Friends.  Corporate members include banks and Foreign and Commonwealth Office. 
3 warehouses in London.  Regional outlets: Woolwich, Silvertown (see listings below); Leicester (contact Sue Pitman, 0116 224 1350, leicester.warehouse@green-works.co.uk), East Durham (contact Peter Keaveney, 0191 518 4394 or mobile 07971 018996), and Paisley, Scotland.  Founded 2000.  (Updated Feb 2007)

Herman Miller Ltd
Tel 020 7388 7331  Fax 020 7387 3507  
E-mail info_uk@hermanmiller.com  Website www.hermanmiller.com/uk
149 Tottenham Court Road, London W1T 7JA
 
Designer and international supplier of office furniture and furniture systems.  Recycled content by weight of chairs varies from 77%  to 41.89%, including steel, aluminium, polypropylene, PET FG, nylon, nylon GF, PET 30% GF, polystyrene, foam, and fabric.  Recycled content of primary materials in systems furniture: particle board in wood worksurfaces 90%; steel in filing, hanger frames, flipper units and other components about 30%; plastic in seating and systems furniture 10-15%; four vertical surface fabric lines are 100% recycled polyester; recycled drinks bottles are the primary plastic source for Equa and Aeron seat shells, each shell using around 36 two-litre bottles.  Recycled content of Ethospace workstations includes: worksurfaces 90%; steel frames 30%; tiles 30%.  Claims most products and components are recyclable, including metals, fabric, and foam, and that generally parts made of polypropylene, steel, or aluminium are 100% recyclable.  Admits some product parts contain a mixture of materials, eg Aeron chair's Pellicle of fibreglass and plastic (4% of the chair), difficult to recycle.  Limerick chairs 100%  recyclable.  Says guidelines ensure products are easily disassembled so components can be separated by material, aiding recycling.  Website www.hmeurope.com/GeneralContent.asp?pagerequested=AUEN  includes environmental details on: Fabrics and finishes, Powder coat, Water-based stains replacing solvents, Autodeposition: new metal finishing alternative, Earth-friendly fabrics, Sustainable wood supplies, Manufacturing, Solid waste management, Recycling manufacturing waste, Reducing manufacturing waste, Lean-thinking initiatives, Hazardous waste management, Control of air emissions including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), Packaging and delivery, Buildings including Green Lights/Energy Star Buildings and their Energy Centre and GreenHouse where resources and energy are reduced; and native grasses, woodlands, meadow flowers, ponds, and wetlands replace manicured lawns.  Also at Lower Bristol Road, Bath BA2 3ER, Tel 01225 428471, Fax 01225 315524.  Website contains comprehensive lists of dealers and retail outlets.   (Updated May 2003)

High Weald Furniture Ltd
Tel / Fax 01435 810402
Email dave@highwealdfurniture.com  Website www.the-green-oak.co.uk  
45 Summerheath Road, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3DR
Contact  David Green and Michael Rigg

Designs and manufactures quality furniture from sustainable, home-grown British woodlands timber - no tropical or imported woods.  Uses renewable materials from sites managed under an environmental plan safeguarding ancient woodlands.  Improves revenues and incentives for management to woodland owners, by using "low value" timber in high value products: meets the design challenge of The Weald's timber,  typically small in diameter, irregularly shaped or low grade.  Simple designs and traditional manufacturing minimise wastage and energy use.  Manufactures close to source: rents workshop from their main timber supplier who cuts most wood used, and stocks FSC certified timber from local Woodland Trust (see Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in Responsible Consumerism section 410).  This minimises transport, and controls sustainable timber sources and important links between timber growers and users.  All materials bought from small, local businesses, boosting rural economy.  Durable oak and sweet chestnut timbers require no preservatives.  Only light, natural, organic finishes are applied to interior furniture.  Respects local distinctiveness: outdoor furniture designs inspired by High Weald landscapes; local woodlands, managed sustainably for generations, provide attractive oak, chestnut and other woods.  

Makes mainly to specifications, or from stock ranges, and/or from timber supplied by customers, who can view progress in the workshop.  Website has pretty pictures, including local Oak, and workshop views updated as furniture is made.  Most outdoor furniture, made to be comfortable, durable and vandal-resistant, is deliverable from stock, flatpacked, by next day courier: benches, perch seats, picnic tables, lecterns, with long legs for digging into the ground; information frames, signs, bollards, fencing, bike posts, bus shelters, gates, decking, pergolas, bridges, brochure holders, conservatories.  All other furniture delivered and/or installed.  Plaques and carved lettering available.  Computer desks, shelves, screens, tables, kitchens, cabinets, dovetailed drawers, rocking chairs, etc.  Will discuss ideas / budgets / timescales.  Designed Kew Gardens' frames and posts housing lozenge-shaped panels for new "Francis Rose Reserve", shapes inspired by Kew's rare mosses; safe fishing platforms for steep banks and wheelchair access; and rooflights/"Lanterns" for lightening rooms.  Customers: Environment Agency; Trusts; County, Parish and Town Councils; water authorities; Nature Reserves; National Trust; Lynchmere Society; RSPB.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Holders Fine Furniture 
Tel 0207 485 2741  Mobile 07903 844482  Fax 020 7916 9259
Email sales@holders-pine.co.uk  Website www.holders-pine.co.uk 
173 Malden Road, Chalk Farm, LONDON NW5 4HT

Specialists in bespoke solid pine furniture.  Range includes 'Country Pine' furniture built with reclaimed pine sourced from old buildings, which can be made to measure and hand-waxed twice for fine or rich finish.  All drawers dovetail jointed.  Dressers, wardrobes, chests of drawers and bookcases built to any height, width or depth.  Free delivery to surrounding areas.  Open 7 days a week, with free parking nearby on Saturdays and Sundays.  (Updated Feb 2004) 

Holloways of Ludlow
Tel 0207 602 5757  Mobile 07786 802 302  Fax 0207 602 6561 
Email  info@hollowaysofludlow.com, sales@hollowaysofludlow.com  
Website  www.hollowaysofludlow.com 
121 Shepherd’s Bush Road, Brook Green, LONDON W6 7LP
Contact  Mark Holloway (mobile as above)

Restoring and working with period homes and gardens at all project stages, including architectural antiques - 'love of all things manufactured with care and attention to detail hard to find in our industrialised world'.  Hand-made doors from reclaimed timber to order, solid oak flooring, fully restored original radiators and quality reproductions, bespoke handmade kitchens and accessories, bathrooms, windows and fittings, handmade garden furniture, and wide selection of paints and finishes.  Family business of 20 years, working with architects and interior designers, craftsmen and manufacturers.  Also sells modern design classics (eg Barcelona chair).  Also in Ludlow, Shropshire (Tel 01584 876207).  National and international mail order (mainland UK standard delivery £4 flat fee; premium delivery £10 flat fee).  Craftspeople, designers, or those managing or planning a project can email Mark: trade@hollowaysofludlow.com  Enquiries and technical questions welcome.  (Updated Jan 2004)  

IBS Reclaim (T)
Tel 01844 239400  Fax 01844 239404
Thame Road, OAKLEY, Bucks HP18 9QQ

Reclaimed materials including bricks, tiles, slates, old pine and furniture.  Open  Mon-Fri 7.30-5;  Sat 8-1;  Sun 10-2.  (Updated July 2001)

Keverne Dewick
Tel 01263 761400
Email  enquiries@kdewick.co.uk  Website  www.kdewick.co.uk  
Unit 6, Alby Craft Center, Cromer Road, ALBY, Norfolk NR11 7QE

Handmade furniture building, restoration and woodturning.  Uses reclaimed materials such as sandblasted beams, and restores and repairs existing furniture.  Suites, tables, corner and wall units, kitchens and office furniture.  Turned bowls, platters, vessels and lamps.  Specialising in one-off and commissioned pieces, the studio has run successfully for six years.  Uses oak, elm, sycamore, ash, and produces unique pieces in cherry, burr oak, burr elm, salt gum burr and burr poplar.  Runs woodturning courses - overnight accomodation can be arranged.  Keverne set up a small workshop 1989 after being inspired by a seller of handmade guitars at Cambridge Folk Festival, and later linked up with Aubrey Hammond (turner/furniture maker trained by Edward Barnsly) to work on varied projects, culminating in establishing Alby Crafts.  (Updated Nov 2005)

La Provence Pine
Tel / Fax 01442 890530  
Website www.la-provence.co.uk (under construction)
41 Western Road, TRING, Herts HP23 4BQ, or
14 London Road, ASTON CLINTON, Bucks HP23 4BQ, Tel 01442 890530
Contact  Christian Volpi 07802 435827

Builds any kind of furniture for homes or offices.  Makes everything to measure - all kinds of wood - including unusual chunky garden furniture.  Also standard range of painted furniture.  About 80% reclaimed or sustainably sourced timber.  Open Tue-Sun 10-5pm.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Leaside Wood Recycling Project 
Tel 0207 515 5444  Mob 07867 885115  Fax 0709 228 1743    
Website www.lwrp.org.uk Email lwrp@ukideas.com
Bromley-by-Bow Centre, St Leonards Street, Bow, London E3 3BT (Storage yard at Lochnagar St E14)
Contact  Danny O'Sullivan, manager 

Not for profit organisation set up in Oct 2001 to rescue and reuse some of the vast amount of local timber that would otherwise be landfilled or burnt.  Aims to "make a difference" through a self-funding business based on reclaiming wood, offering training & employment opportunities for local people, and funding community projects with any surplus.  Good rates offered to business and domestic customers for re-use, rather than disposal, of their wood waste give considerable savings over skip hire or landfill.  In Leaside (Tower Hamlets) area of East London, it is estimated that 20,000 tonnes of timber is wasted annually.  Much good & medium quality timber is reclaimed and can be re-used in building or crafts, available at LWRP shop.  Makes useful items such as worktops, wardrobes, windows, tables, cabin beds, floors, garden seats, planters, gazebos and pergolas.  Some timber collected is beautiful hardwood from trees cut down before 1900, and can be used to design and create unique objects or installations at reasonable prices for home & garden.  Researching ways to use lower grade wood (eg composting & sawdust compacting for fuel). Project has opportunities to progress, on the doorstep of development spilling out from the City and Docklands.  (Updated Nov 2005)

Mark Taylor Design 
Tel 01628 486707  Fax 01628 486707
Email info@marktaylordesign.co.uk  
Website www.marktaylordesign.co.uk  
Quarry Bank, Quarry Wood, MARLOW, Bucks SL7 1RF

Design and manufacture of bespoke furniture, kitchens, doors, bookcases, beds, settles and other items from reclaimed wood including flooring.  Sourcing service.  FoE Good Wood Guide entry 2000-1.  (Updated Feb 2005)

Morph
Tel 020 7168 2531
Website www.morph.org.uk  Email info@morph.org.uk 
19-23 Kingsland Road, Hackney, LONDON E2 8AA

Recycles unwanted furniture, selling home or office items at bargain prices.  The idea is from the continent, where recycling and social enterprise are big business, and several independent furniture recycling outlets used a common brand.  Collaboration between: Pecan Ltd (train and help people get jobs); Shaftesbury Resource Centre (help people furnish their homes); London Recycling Fund (promote recycling and reducing waste); Hackney Council (pioneering ways to reduce rubbish and landfill).  More upmarket than many secondhand furniture stores - cafe, pine floorboards, artwork on the wall.  People on benefit who register are entitled to discounts.  Furniture can be donated online or via Hackney Council Recycling Unit on 020 8356 6688.  Open Mon 10 - 1, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 10- 5.  Closed Wed.  (Updated Oct 2005)

The National Community Wood Recycling Project (NCWRP)
Tel 01273 465666  Fax 01273 465616
Email info@communitywoodrecycling.org.uk  
Website www.communitywoodrecycling.org.uk  
Premier House, Shoreham Airport, West Sussex BN43 5FF
Contact  Melaine Hickford, Communications Manager;  Richard Mehmed, Project Director 

Not-for-profit environmental group set up in February 2003 (at Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project - see above) to provide encouragement, help and practical advice to individuals or groups interested in setting up and developing community - focused wood recycling.  Helps and monitors a network of wood recycling projects across UK dealing in waste timber from construction and other users.  Wood is collected mainly from building site demolition, joinery, packaging and domestic waste, sorted into grades, then sold to the public via 'wood shops' or converted into wood products, firewood, woodchips for fuel, mulches or animal bedding.  Aims to see 20 more UK wood recycling projects (typically not-for-profit social enterprises) set up by 2007, saving thousands of tonnes of wood from landfill, creating sustainable jobs, training and volunteering opportunities, and aiding local waste minimisation strategies.  To encourage use of recycled timber, has developed the "Recycled Wood Marque", making it easier to identify recycled wood products.  They hope it will be adopted nationally and internationally.  People choosing products with the marque will encourage use of recycled materials.  More info on website.  (Updated Nov 2005)

Natural Wood Floor Co Ltd (T)
Tel 0208 871 9771  Fax 0208 877 0273  Website www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk 
20 Smugglers Way, Wandsworth, LONDON SW18 1EQ

Major dealer in high quality reclaimed and sustainable source (FSC) timber, including sale of kitchen work surfaces and exterior decking from sustainable timber.  Can supply information on timber's origin and country (eg oak beams from old railway carriages, floorboards re-sawn from salvaged beams, Burmese or Rhodesian teak).  Some is supplied to overseas markets.  (Updated July 2001)

New from Old
Tel 01353 676227 
Email rick@newfromold.co.uk  Website www.newfromold.co.uk  
The Engine House, White House Road, Little Ouse, ELY, Cambs CB7 4TG
Contact  Rick Forward

Solid wood kitchens and furniture designed and handcrafted from reclaimed and sustainable timber.  No new tropical hardwoods, but some temperate hardwoods from sustainable sources, including oak, beech, elm, ash, maple, chestnut, walnut and fruitwood such as cherry, apple, pear ('many hardwoods have striking variable grain, incorporated into the design', using the woods' beauty).  Regularly uses reclaimed timbers, particularly pine, frequently antique, sourced from slow growing species giving close grained resinous material, old timbers displaying charm when polished and waxed, yet adaptable to specific requirements.  Reclaimed timber, seasoned by time, is more durable and stable than new timber, which (however seasoned or pre-treated) is softer and dents easily.  Freestanding or semi-freestanding designs can be taken when moving house, benefiting your pocket and the environment.  Solid, lasting furniture, not needing replacement, reduces pressure on precious natural resources, and has 'investment value, being handcrafted and of individual design, and is an investment in the future of the planet'.  

Complete design and planning, with initial visit if required.  Detailed designs, specifications and formal quotations.  Traditional methods: 'tried and tested' cabinetry, including dovetails for strength; marble, slate and tiles used for surfaces, splashbacks, and decorative detail.  Finishes available include wax, oil, lacquer or paint.  No standard range - any design, from fitted kitchens to freestanding pieces.  After sales care, installation and/or project management.  Can co-ordinate services and products: plumbers, electricians, tilers, etc.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Old Time Timber
Tel 01787 277390  Fax 01787 278669  
Email sales@oldtimetimber.com  Website www.oldtimetimber.com 
Chilton Street, Clare, SUDBURY, Suffolk CO10 8QS

Manufacturer of doors, door panelling, windows, flooring and timber mouldings from old and new timber.  (Updated July 2001)

Olney Pine 
Tel 01234 240204 (Shop)  01234 391810 (Workshop)  Mobile 07802 331185
Email m@olneypine.co.uk  Website www.olneypine.co.uk  
31a Market Square, Olney, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK46 4AJ
Contact  Michael James

Made to measure service for oak and pine.  80% of pine used is reclaimed or from sustainable sources.  Workshop gives advice and handles bespoke enquiries.  Ready built, not flat pack.  Large dining tables, beds and wardrobes may be broken down slightly to enable assembly at home.  Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 1030am-430pm.  Deliveries Mon-Fri 9am-5pm - will state am or pm, or can phone half hour before delivery.  Also at 65 Mansfield Road, Nottingham NG1 3FN, Tel 01159-581094.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Paul Daly Design Studio
Tel 0207 613 4855  Fax 0207 613 5848
Email studio@pauldaly.com  Website www.pauldaly.com 
11 Hoxton Square, LONDON N1 6NU

Interior designers using reclaimed timber in flooring and wall cladding where possible. Uses timber companies that recycle their wood.  (Updated July 2001)

Pine Antiques
Tel 01908 510226 
16 High Street, Hanslope, MILTON KEYNES MK19 7LQ

Antique and other pine furniture handcrafted to order from reclaimed pine.

The Pine Shoppe
Tel 01582 715302
95 Luton Road, HARPENDEN, Herts AL5 3BB

New and reproduction antique pine furniture made to order.

Pinocchio
Tel / Fax 01628 631932  
Website www.pinocchio4pine.com  
112 High Street, MAIDENHEAD, Berks SL6 1PT  

Furniture range: everything produced on site uses timber from 'well managed and sustainable softwood resources', or reclaimed timber (eg salvaged from demolished buildings).  95% of goods sold are of sustainable or reclaimed timber.  The reclaimed ranges are their most popular items, especially those made to order.  Assembled by hand with traditional jointing methods.  Bespoke service; 40 colour finishes.  Also sells non-furniture nostalgia items.  (Updated Feb 2004)

Rawnsley Woodland Products  
Tel / Fax 01208 813490 Mobile 07817 450009
Email info@cornishwoodland.co.uk , orders@cornishwoodland.co.uk 
Website www.cornishwoodland.co.uk 
Rawnsley Woodland Products, Waverley, Burlawn, WADEBRIDGE, Cornwall PL27 7LD

Specialists in furniture, buildings, structures and products from local, sustainably harvested natural materials.  Uses less and makes better to last longer.  Low-impact use of woodland: positive production between humans and environment.  Ash, sweet chestnut, elm, oak, and beech used, producing varieties of colour.  Hand-made and custom build to traditional or latest energy efficient, low-impact eco design - requirements and sketches can be discussed, emailed or faxed.  Timber framed houses, log cabins, growing willow structures; climbing frames, tree and garden houses, workshops, garden office, sheds; linhays, living and grafted tree borders, tunnels, arbours, pole building, tipi, pergolas, mazes, gates, fences, trellis, love seats, altars, and groves.  Natural finishes.  Mobile sawmill service with trailerable 16' cut - converts standing trees into building timber, ship lap, joist beams and floorboards.  Training courses, including personal tuition (call to arrange); longbows, greenwood, chairs, and coracles.  Funding may be available.  Research and development for best manufacturing / making techniques.  Components made on site and in the wood (removing need for builders merchants) uses materials which are otherwise wasted due to inaccessibility or non-commercial size or shape.  Can work growth shapes into design.  Waste degrades as food and habitat for wildlife; or used for heat and steambending.  Low-impact methods, including horses and without heavy machinery, to manage sensitive sites; tree selection by careful thinning, coppicing or wind-fell, allowing regrowth; traditional ancient underwood management encouraging biodiversity and vigorous regeneration.  Website primarily to offer brochure without destruction of trees for paper.  Uses paper from sustainably managed forests or 100% recycled.  Constant reassessment for environment impact.  Member of West Country Woodsmen.  (Updated Feb 2005)

Reelfurniture
Tel 01603 629396 
Email info@reelfurniture.co.uk (ideas, commissions, environment…), sales@reelfurniture.co.uk (enquiries)  Website www.reelfurniture.co.uk  
37 St Stephens Square, NORWICH, Norfolk NR1 3SS 
Contact  David Meddings

Creates recycled wooden furniture for home and garden, 'acting positively to protect timber resources and conserve forests'.  Eco gallery of furniture and housewares from reclaimed timber, and mail order service.  Design and conservation commitment, offering attractive ethical alternatives to tropical hardwoods, plastics, resins, and harmful chemical treatments.  Uses latest environment-friendly, safe, strong, durable water-based lacquers.  Website has excellent Environment section detailing global benefits of reclaimed wood as a recycled content product; plus wood and forestry research, and Events list.  Furniture design includes inspiration from industrial cable reel construction, and responds to qualities of wood, steel and rope.  The fully seasoned reclaimed timber includes mature high quality from old growth forests.  Steel fittings are zinc plated for protection, and hemp coloured rigging rope is rot-proof and UV inhibited.  Tables, chairs, rockers, tree seats, small useful household goods, and an amazing children's playhouse.  Some chairs and benches adjust in height for use with dining, coffee or low table.  Bookshelf from recycled pallets.  Unusual large coat hook rails/plaques.  Tactile features use knots, grain and patina from previous life.  Commissions welcome, including schools and theatre.  Loft spaces, barns, flats, patios, conservatories, quaysides, gardens, sunrooms, verandas, BBQ's, and urban gardens (even for star gazing!