Sunday, November 16, 2014

Freestanding furniture for a Bangalow workers cottage

Inspired by some of my previous work, my client wanted some pieces designed and made using the same local timbers. Blackbutt and Silver Ash. She also wanted her pieces to be interchangeable so she could move them around the house. We came up with these freestanding bedside tables, a chest of drawers, one wardrobe (that I forgot to photograph!) and a built in drawer unit.







Monday, November 10, 2014

A Tasmanian Adventure. A Vist to Laura McCusker Furniture Design studio and The Wooden Boat Centre

For a while now Iv been following the work of Laura McCusker and Pete Howard on line and on Instagram and on a recent trip to Hobart, my Girl and I felt the need to head over to their workshop and introduce ourselves. 

It was great to touch base and have a look at where all their furniture is made. As soon as I stepped into the historic building I strangely felt at home. I don't know if it was the smell of a workshop or how comfortable the pair made us feel. But one things for sure, we both knew this was a pretty special experience and it was good to actually get to know them a little. They also gave us a load of local knowledge about what to do, and where to go. 
It was great to meet one of Australia's finest furniture makers. 

Feel free to check out her work www.lauramccusker.com 



These side tables were headed to a little gallery called MONA. No biggie.


Peter Howard. AKA handsom Pete.




Whilst in the area, I pulled into check out The Wooden Boat Centre.  









Sunday, November 9, 2014

Website under construction

In the anticipation of the launch of my website, I felt it would be nice to share what I’ve been working on lately.

Here are just a few pieces from my ever growing personal collection all designed here in Billinudgel, Northern New South Wales.

Any inquires, please feel free to email or call


0413 601 050





Wednesday, September 17, 2014

Featured on The Noun Collective

Roughly about a year ago, Sydney based creatives David Childs and Kat Parker stopped by the shop to capture a normal day in and out of the workshop. 
They have put together a little documentary and a small collection of photos.

Simply click the image below and it'll take you right there.

Thanks for having a look.

Marty 



Tuesday, April 29, 2014

The Deanna Lounge Suite

The Deanna Lounge Suite. 

Intended for outdoor use, this piece was designed and made here in the Byron Shire using locally sourced and sustainable products. 

For me information, feel free to email me: martinjohnston@live.com

More photo to come...













Sunday, February 2, 2014

Entertainment unit in Bangalow, Byron Bay

The Christmas rush saw all kinds of jobs coming out of the workshop last year but I think I saved the best for last. Peter and Naomi have recently built a beautiful family home in between the hills of Byron Bay and Bangalow and were so excited to have the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle complete before the holidays.

The Entertainment Unit originally was planned for a more recycled look however after doing some research and a few sketches, we decided to keep it simple as the majority of the electronics really defined the use of space. However, Peter and Naomi were both very happy to use solid timbers and keep within the theme of their classical farm house and the surrounding area of the Byron Hinterland. 
Mixed recycled hardwood floor boards were used to form the lower top and "marry in" to the existing floorboards to create a built in feel and also added a seamless transition between the drawers and the standing unit that would house the TV and other electronics. This seamless transition provided from the floors boards to the standing unit was also made to create a hallway between the main bedroom and the living room. This also added the opportunity to have backless bookshelves which help bring a lightness to the entertainment unit.  

This entertainment unit was an enjoyable challenge to make and given the time frame I feel that all expectations were fulfilled. Both Peters and naomi's choice in sustainable forestry certified plywood and solid Hoop Pine were used and left with a rough sawn look and texture as the couple wanted to see the living history in the timber it self. And that they will. With two young boys, I hope that this piece will age with beauty, just like all family homes should. 

Marty.