The designs for my curved benches arise from the desire to create sensual forms and the practical realization that most seating is not conducive to the way that we relate to each other. Conventional seating designs dictate that those who sit face in the same direction, causing people to twist their heads uncomfortably in order to maintain eye contact. Curves and circles in the design allow people to face each other, prompting contact and conversation, and also allow for the need for one's own space and privacy, where we can turn away from others.
I also wanted to design seating to be multi-functional, so that people are able to sit in a variety of ways, or to lie down, or for children to play around and on. Some seats offer a 360 degree view - democratic seating - where the users choose how and where to sit.
"?" bench
Code C34
'?' bench, made from Western red cedar. 2nd prize winner at South West Woodfair, Taunton 2007. 8 feet long.
'Serpentine' Western red cedar: £1900
Oak and stainless steel: £2200
"O" bench
Code C33
'O' bench, made to go around a tree. The diameter of the hole in the middle is 3 feet and the overall diameter is 6.5 feet.
£2200
Circular bench
Code CB10
Circular benches: this one is 10 foot internal diameter
and is made up of 9 individual benches. Made with a solid or slatted
top, the diameter can be any size you wish.
The starting price for one softwood unit which is about 1.25 metres long is £245.
Woodwright Designs offers a bespoke design service. if you do not see what you want a design solution can be offered. All designs here can be made in any size. Please see the individual pieces for the possible size options.
Most of the seating is made from local Devon oak sourced from a Dartmoor sawmill. Oak is used for its durability in the outdoor environment: it does not need to be treated against rot and insect attack and with time turns an attractive silver grey. Other wood, such as pressure treated Douglas fir and Western red cedar, can sometimes be used.
Please note that these benches are sold as garden furniture but they are equally at home indoors. The Serpentine bench is ideal in a gallery, for example, as it offers views to all areas of a room and not just the view in front. Seating made specifically for indoors can be made from a far greater range of woods.






