Chad Parkinson is the owner and principal designer of The Furniture Joint, a firm specialising in hand-crafted wooden furniture, based in Utah. Chad aspires to bring nice long lasting furniture back into peoples home, by showcasing the natural beauty of wood and countering the flat pack fad. His philosophy is that furniture should be cherished, not replaced with each passing trend. Chad also utilises local materials as much as possible, and favours traditional joinery techniques. So we are proud to bring you the Designer Insights of Chad Parkinson.
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1) In your own words describe your unique style and creative aesthetic?
I meticulously select materials for each project. Unique attributes of the wood drive the aesthetic as I highlight natural qualities instead of attempting to trump them in any way. I create items I would enjoy.
2) When starting a new project, what is your creative process?
The process begins by considering whatever the piece of furniture will be - a chair, bed, etc. - and thinking incessantly about it until a design formulates and the personalized, detailed elements follow.
3) Out of the creative people you have worked with, who is it that you respect and admire the most?
My dad is a constant inspiration because everything I’ve ever seen him make is of outstanding quality. He taught me to strive for perfection, without ever verbally expressing that standard. I grew up seeing things purposefully and carefully built, and quality was never compromised. That has always stuck with me.
4) When looking for inspiration is there a particular thing you do to get inspired?
I drive a lot, using that quiet alone time to focus on the purpose of the piece until a design emerges. I think my line furniture has developed a timeless appeal that most can appreciate that way.
5) What has brought you to this point in your career? And what is your advice for people looking to follow in your footsteps?
A love of building, being unwilling to sacrifice what I’m passionate about for something easier. I thrive off of wondering, initially, if a project is possible, then breaking it down and figuring it out, when others might abandon the challenge. Don’t focus on furniture making ‘rules,’ focus on what you want to build and make it happen.
