The Art of Design Issue 74 2025 | Page 14

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Andy Mast- Woodbender

CRAFTSMANSHIP MEETS INNOVATION AT CLERKENWELL DESIGN WEEK 2025

Hill Cross Furniture, the UK’ s leading contract furniture supplier, is teaming up with Woodbender for a standout showcase at Clerkenwell Design Week 2025. This collaboration combines 25 years of project expertise with nearly 40 years of steam-bent craftsmanship, delivering a unique blend of timeless technique and contemporary design.
Trusted by Design-Led Brands Since becoming Woodbender’ s exclusive UK distributor in 2022, Hill Cross has introduced their handcrafted, steam-bent pieces to acclaimed venues such as Akara London, Jesse’ s House private members’ club, and Nando’ s across the UK. Rooted in shared values of quality, heritage, and innovation, this partnership offers beautiful, sustainable furniture built to last— paired with Hill Cross’ seamless project management and bespoke solutions. energy and sends zero waste to landfill, combining artisanal quality with environmental responsibility.
Ethical, Efficient, and Built to Last Reflecting on an early visit to Woodbender’ s Cape Town factory, Hill Cross CEO Jen Barker shared,“ After seeing their steam-bending process, we knew we wanted to partner. Their chairs are now bestsellers, and our efficient supply
chain delivers custom seating within two weeks.”
Shared Vision, Aligned Values Andy Mast, CEO of Woodbender, added,“ Hill Cross understands the craftsmanship behind every piece. This partnership feels like a natural extension of our brand, and we’ re delighted to exhibit together at Clerkenwell.”
An Immersive Showcase The Hill Cross stand will also feature NOROCK’ s self-stabilising table bases— introduced to the UK by Hill Cross— and hyper-realistic biophilic trees from TreeLocate, handcrafted in Northumberland. These elements will complete a tactile, immersive environment that tells a story of quality, sustainability, and innovation.
Celebrating British Craftsmanship At Clerkenwell, Hill Cross will debut custom banquette seating and tables inspired by Woodbender’ s signature curves. The banquette seating is crafted on a family-run farm in North Yorkshire where an ecosystem of local suppliers— from frame makers to upholsterers— ensure sustainable, low-carbon production. Hill Cross’ production operation runs on renewable
Richard & Jen Barker- Hill Cross
See it for Yourself at Design Fields Discover the Hill Cross x Woodbender collaboration at Design Fields, Stand DF1, during Clerkenwell Design Week( May 20 – 22, 2025)— a three-day celebration of design excellence across more than 600 events.
woodbender. com | hillcrossfurniture. co. uk