Timber iQ October - November 2018 // Issue: 40 | Page 54

FEATURES
VML digital agency’s bar in recycled oregon.
Continued from page 50
oregon and scaffolding boards. We designed a minimalist
look by creating legs that feel part of the top with the grain
of the top ‘falling’ over into the legs to accentuate the
natural grain of the timber. This is such a small piece but
has the presence to enhance an entire room.”
A special species to mention is oregon, notes Dicks,
“Based on its character, its brilliant, especially the 100- to
200-year-old examples. It’s also soft enough to work with,
but tough enough to endure any environment. It also
comes in different colours: natural biscuit, yellow/orange
and deep red/brown.”
When using reclaimed materials, Dicks says the best
character outcome comes from making use of a natural
aging process and not an artificial one. He continues, “The
urge to reconnect with nature plays out in a variety of
designs and natural colour palettes. There’s a strong link to
the farm-to-table movement that now extends to
sustainable furniture as consumer trends become
increasingly ‘homegrown’.”
52 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2018 //
COLLABORATE AND DIFFERENTIATE
Dicks says the collaboration with other designers,
contractors and architects is key. Marrying the
personalised experience with the supply of furniture is a
winning formula, notes Dicks. “It’s good business to
engage with and assist clientele months after the purchase
has taken place or add an element of surprise to the
purchase delivered with a bunch of flowers, surfboard wax
for the surfers, a case of wine, or even a baby grow, for
example,” he laughs, adding, “We are also in the business
of storytelling, meaning we source really old wood that has
a rich history, which helps with marketing as clients share
the story around their dinner parties.”
When dealing with customers seeking upcycled furniture
pieces, Dicks says it’s beneficial to work in collaboration with
clients; who play an integral role in the entire manufacturing
process; with storyboards and the selection of wood and
give them ongoing updates until final approval on site. The
client can change the design or material used at any stage.
“Treat each and every client as a victory, from the smallest
purchase to the largest commission,” he adds.