"We love working collaboratively with designers during the product development phase of their designs. In this case, Tom initially came to us with his design concept for the Cove Lounge which was already well resolved, however he has always been open to suggestions from us as manufacturers with how best we can turn his design concept into a marketable product.

We looked at ways of tweaking the design to save on material waste, as well as discussing the best method of construction, timber species and suitable coating choices. This helps make the product as strong, long lasting and price competitive as possible, and is the true value manufacturers bring to the table.

Often small concessions on the design can have a big impact on the viability of the product. Shaving off a few millimetres from the timber thickness for example can sometimes have a huge impact if it means that stock sizes can be reduced.

Thinking about types of joints and methods of construction is also an area where the maker and designer can work effectively together in a collaborative fashion for the ultimate benefit of the final design. This is built from a relationship based on mutual respect, transparency and communication.

We have worked with Tom on several other projects, and his keen interest in the workshop and understanding our manufacturing processes has always helped achieve a fantastic result for the ultimate users of his products".

Louise Ommundson, Director, Evostyle