In conversation with Hutch Custom: Timeless Elegance In Bespoke Fine Furniture

In this conversation, Marcia engages with Warren Turnbull, the creative force behind Hutch Customs, to dive into the philosophy that drives his exceptional carpentry work. With a focus on custom, handcrafted pieces, Warren shares his passion for combining imagination, creativity, and craftsmanship into each creation.

From coffee tables and TV units to chairs and dining tables, Warren and his small team of skilled craftsmen put their heart and soul into every piece, using only the finest materials to ensure unique, high-quality results. In this interview, we explore Warren’s journey, the artistry behind his work, and the endless possibilities he offers through Hutch Customs.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you first got into furniture design?

The very first piece of furniture I made was the Mogi Table. That project changed everything for me—it was the first time I saw furniture as more than just function. It made me realize that a piece can have both presence and personality, and that design is as much about feeling as it is about structure.

Who or what influences your furniture designs the most? Are there any particular styles or designers that inspire your work?

Mid-century modern design has always been a major influence on my work. There’s something about the simplicity and near-perfect symmetry that draws me in. But I also like to soften those clean lines with subtle curves and textures—bringing the style into today’s world while keeping its timeless essence.

How do you stay motivated and inspired when working on new furniture designs?

I rarely start with a fully fleshed-out design. I might have a rough idea of what I want to make, but I let the process guide me. Seeing a piece take shape, adapting it along the way, and discovering new details as I build—that’s what keeps me motivated. It’s a constant cycle of exploration and refinement.

Design Process

Can you walk us through your creative process when designing a new piece of furniture?

Most of my designs start as a vision—usually right before I fall asleep. I try to sketch them out as soon as I wake up, just to capture the essence of the idea. From there, I head into the workshop and start building. It’s a very organic process; the finer details emerge as I work with the material, and I adjust based on how the piece evolves.

How do you approach the challenge of combining both aesthetic appeal and functionality in your designs?

For me, furniture is functional art. A piece should serve its purpose effortlessly while still making a statement. Throughout the build, I constantly evaluate how the design will hold up over time—ensuring that every joint and moving part isn’t just beautiful but also durable and practical.

When designing a custom piece, how do you balance a client’s specific needs with your design vision?

It’s all about collaboration. I take the time to understand what my clients want—not just in terms of function, but also how they want the piece to feel in their space. From there, I blend their vision with my own style, ensuring that the final piece is something they love while still staying true to my design philosophy.

How do you choose the materials for your pieces, and what’s most important to you when selecting them?

Quality is the top priority. I primarily work with hardwoods, particularly White Oak and Walnut, because they age beautifully and last for generations. Every board is handpicked, ensuring the best grain patterns and structural integrity. The goal is always to create something that will stand the test of time.

Trends & Innovation

What do you think are the biggest trends in furniture design today?

I’d like to believe that people are moving towards furniture that lasts—pieces that can be passed down rather than replaced. But I don’t design based on trends. My focus is on timelessness, ensuring that my work holds value regardless of what’s popular at the moment.

How do you incorporate modern technologies or materials into your designs while maintaining a timeless feel?

When I’m unsure about a design, I use 3D modeling to visualize the structure before I start building. It helps refine proportions and experiment with different elements before committing to a final form. But when it comes to the actual build, I rely on hand-cut joinery and traditional techniques to ensure that every piece has character and integrity.

Do you foresee any upcoming shifts in furniture design that you are excited to explore or implement?

Sustainable sourcing is becoming a bigger conversation, and I fully support it. Since I create one-off pieces, mass production trends don’t affect me much, but I do enjoy repurposing quality timber when I come across abandoned furniture that deserves a second life.

How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs, whether through materials, processes, or overall concepts?

Wastage is my biggest pet peeve. I’m mindful when breaking down raw materials, ensuring that offcuts get repurposed for smaller projects like jewelry boxes. Every bit of wood has value, and I try to use it all.

Craftsmanship & Quality

Craftsmanship is often a defining feature of your work. What does craftsmanship mean to you, and how does it influence your designs?

Traditional carpentry is a dying art, overshadowed by mass production and cost-cutting. To me, craftsmanship is about honoring time-tested techniques—creating furniture that isn’t just beautiful today but will still be solid in 50 years. That mindset influences every decision I make in the workshop.

What is your process for ensuring that each piece of furniture meets your quality standards?

It starts with material selection—choosing the best timber is half the battle. From there, I take my time with each stage of the build, ensuring that every joint is precise and every surface is finished to perfection. I also test moving parts extensively to guarantee long-term durability.

Do you have a preferred material or technique that you often return to when creating your pieces?

Walnut is a go-to for me—it has a warmth and richness that elevates any design. As for techniques, I love using traditional joinery like hand-cut mortise and tenon, paired with modern bending and shaping methods to create organic, flowing forms.

How do you ensure that your furniture is not only aesthetically appealing but also durable and built to last?

By never cutting corners. Every piece is built with the mindset that it should outlive me. That means using strong joinery, high-quality finishes, and construction methods that allow for wood movement over time.

Challenges & Problem-Solving

What is one of the most challenging pieces you’ve designed, and how did you overcome any obstacles during the design process?

The Leger was by far the most complex piece I’ve ever made. The sheer number of ribs and bent lamination supports made it a serious test of patience and precision. There was no margin for error—every rib had to be shaped perfectly to maintain the structure and flow of the design. It took a lot of careful planning and problem-solving, but the end result was worth every challenge.

Have there been any projects where you faced limitations, and how did you creatively solve those challenges?

Space constraints are often an issue, especially when designing large furniture for compact homes. I tackle this by incorporating clever storage solutions and designing pieces that maximize usability without overwhelming the space.

Personal Design Philosophy

How would you describe your design style? How do you want your furniture to make people feel when they use it?

I’d describe my style as refined modernism—blending clean lines with organic elements. My goal is for people to feel a sense of warmth and connection when they interact with my pieces. Good furniture should invite touch and conversation.

What do you believe makes a piece of furniture truly special or unique?

It’s the details. The way a joint is cut, how a curve flows, or even the way light plays on a surface—these are the things that separate a good piece from a great one. True craftsmanship is in the subtleties.

How important is customization in your work? Do you enjoy creating one-of-a-kind pieces for your clients?

Customization is everything. Every piece I make is tailored to the client, their space, and their needs. That’s what makes it meaningful—not just another item in a catalog, but something truly personal.

Future of Furniture Design

What’s next for Hutch Custom? Are there any exciting projects or new furniture pieces on the horizon?

There’s always something brewing in the workshop! Right now, I’m working on a whiskey cabinet that blends modern aesthetics with classic craftsmanship. Beyond that, I’m always pushing to refine my techniques and explore new ideas.

How do you see the future of furniture design evolving over the next 5 to 10 years?

I think there will be a shift toward heirloom-quality furniture—people moving away from fast furniture and investing in pieces that last. Sustainability will play a big role in that.

Advice for Aspiring Furniture Designers

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in furniture design?

Just start. Don’t wait until you have all the perfect tools or knowledge—learning happens in the making.

How can aspiring designers develop their own unique voice and style in such a competitive industry?

Experiment. Try different styles, push your limits, and don’t be afraid to fail. Your style will emerge naturally the more you create.

What do you think is the most important skill or quality to have as a furniture designer?

Patience. Good design takes time, and craftsmanship isn’t something you rush. Stay curious, stay passionate, and always aim for excellence.

Specializing in custom pieces, from coffee tables and TV units, to chairs and dining tables; Hutch Custom is all about using the finest materials to ensure that you get a piece that is unique and of the highest quality. Browse the portfolio online and explore the possibilities of what can be created for you.

Contact: Hutch Custom.

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