Axminster supports Young Furniture Makers Exhibition 

The Young Furniture Makers exhibition this year returned to the City of London on Wednesday 9th October. Organised by The Furniture Makers’ Company, the exhibition gives industry the opportunity to connect with young, creative talent. Going forward, these young people are destined to be the designer-makers of the future, looking to make an impact on the sector.

Axminster Tools & Machinery was the main sponsor of the exhibition, assisted by supporting partners Anti Copying in Design, Celtheath Contract Furniture, The January Furniture Show and The Furniture Ombudsman. 

As has been the case in previous years, the event featured the very best furniture and furnishing design talent from GCSE and A level students through to BA and MA graduates, and young professionals from around the UK. Held in the Furniture Makers’ Hall and the Dutch Church at Austin Friars in London, a record-breaking 150 exhibited their pieces of furniture and lighting.

The Innovation Award-winning Huw Evans from Plymouth University

ids Macdonald OBE, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company, extended an official welcome to guests from across the furnishing and design community. Director and designer-maker Sebastian Cox was the guest of honour at the awards presentation evening. Sebastian is a previous recipient of the Design Guild Mark awarded by the Furniture Makers’ Company.

This year’s award winners were:

Blum Best in Show – Huw Evans of Plymouth University for Concertina Collection Bespoke Award First Place – Matthew Hensby of Building Crafts College for Kent Stick Chair Design Award First Place – Nina Naveršnik of Birmingham City University for Lucy Light Innovation Award First Place –Huw Evans of Plymouth University for Concertina Collection School Design First Place – Millie Harper of Ipswich High School for Egg Cot

Axminster’s managing director Alan Styles is a liveryman with The Furniture Makers’ Company and keen to support the Company in all aspects of its work. “We feel proud to support the Young Furniture Makers and their exhibition,” said Alan. “The event is a great way for students, education and industry to come together and network. The work by The Furniture Makers’ Company and the many individuals who give their time is making a notable difference. 

Huw Evans’ impressive Concertina Colletion

“Axminster is focused on developing products and services to suit its many customers. Our association with Young Furniture Makers and The Furniture Makers’ Company gives us a great insight into how to develop what we do. So we feel privileged to give back.” 

For more information about how Axminster can assist your business, visit axminster.co.uk. To arrange a meeting with a regional technical consultant, email [email protected] or call 0800 371822.