About
Design by committee has become a common term of disparagement, but the life of a solo designer-maker can be a lonely one. Maybe one day we’ll have a few more members, but let’s just say that all current committee members take great encouragement in our ability as a collective. And besides, there just aren’t enough committees around these days.
New committee
The original Utility Furniture Advisory Committee was established in response to material shortages during, and immediately after, World War II.
The context has changed but the idea of limitless resources has been disproved in every industry. Wood has the great advantage of being a renewable resource but long growing times and global demand means we’re obligated to make the most of this precious material.
New utility
While many aspects of utility remain unchanged, the definition of utility in design is arguably broader than ever. Comfort, capacity, and after-care are enduring measures of utility, but now we can add longevity, recyclability, carbon footprint and social impact. New utility encompasses all these and more.
The furniture we aim to produce is reflective of our aspiration to live in a world where products are designed, made and purchased with careful consideration. The choices we make and the actions we take are deliberate and powerful.
Work with us
Now seeking collaborations and commissions