Tom Faulkner

For almost three decades, Tom Faulkner has crafted striking designs that blend modern flair with classical roots. He started his design journey by transforming a coffee table and expanded into creating pieces for friends. After transitioning his hobby into a business, he delved into metalwork, which now defines much of his output. His affinity for metal stems from its versatility and durability, allowing him to play to the material’s strengths to create pieces that endure the test of time. He appreciates its ability to create slender yet sturdy pieces, a feat often unattainable with wood, and Tom’s designs are influenced by a fascination with geometry and classical architecture, showcasing a blend of organic shapes and precise lines.

Despite the meticulous craftsmanship required, Tom enjoys the quick and adaptable nature of metalwork. Additionally, he values metal’s durability, echoing his commitment to sustainable design.

Reflecting on his design process, Tom emphasizes the importance of creating beauty through proportion and classical motifs. Inspired by classical architecture, he incorporates bold shapes and timeless elements into his designs, drawing people in with their natural allure. Tom’s creative process is deeply intertwined with the aesthetic world around him, drawing inspiration from diverse sources such as nature, architecture, and most notably, sculpture. Among the myriad influences shaping his design practice, sculpture consistently resonates with him.

In an effort to unveil the inner workings of his creative journey, Tom has curated a list of his top ten favourite sculptors who have left an indelible mark on his work:

1. Constantin Brâncuși

2. Richard Serra

3. Auguste Rodin

4. Alexander Calder

5. Pablo Picasso

6. Anthony Caro

7. Antony Gormley

8. Gian Lorenzo Bernini

9. Barbara Hepworth

10. Alberto Giacometti

Tom finds inspiration in 20th-century design movements, particularly Art Nouveau and Modernism. He admires the innovative use of metal by pioneers like Marcel Breuer and Le Corbusier, who celebrated metal’s modern aesthetic by showcasing it prominently in their furniture designs. Embracing the mantra of “less is more,” Tom focuses on quality, line, and proportion in his own work, eschewing ornamentation for a minimalist approach.

Despite his growth and international success, Tom remains dedicated to the creative and practical aspects of furniture making. His recent move to Oxfordshire reflects his desire to stay connected to the workshop and the artistic process, where he finds inspiration and fulfilment.

Art and design possess a natural synergy, particularly evident in the realms of sculpture and furniture.