The Rise of Female Woodworkers in Sustainable Design
A new generation of female woodworkers is making waves by transforming waste materials such as bike tyres and timber offcuts into unique, sustainable creations. These artists are finding their niche in small design studios where they explore circular-economy ideals and innovative practices that are reshaping the design landscape. Their work is being celebrated at this year’s Melbourne Design Week, an event that brings together Australian makers who create furniture, lighting, and homewares.
From Bikes to Chairs: A New Approach to Upholstery
Isabel Avendaño-Hazbún has pioneered a new upholstery material made from discarded rubber bicycle tyres sourced from local bike shops. These materials, which would otherwise end up in landfills, have been repurposed to create her chair design The Chair (2022). The buoyant timber chairs are handwoven with tyre rope, drawing inspiration from nautical knots and breathing new life into her practice.
Avendaño-Hazbún emphasizes the importance of using readily available timbers like Tasmanian oak and Victorian ash, rather than rare species. She believes that the demand for handmade items helps people appreciate the value of craftsmanship. Her work, showcased at Craft Victoria as part of Future Ambition, highlights how sustainability and creativity can coexist.
Furniture as Sculpture: Reimagining Timber Waste
Furniture designer Jess Humpston is redefining what it means to work with timber offcuts. Her latest piece, Felled: Reimagining Timber Supply in Contemporary Practice, showcases how waste materials can be transformed into beautiful, functional designs. Humpston brings an architectural flair to her work, ensuring that recycled materials receive a new lease of life.
Humpston, who transitioned from fashion design to furniture, creates sculptural yet practical pieces. Last year, she used celery top pine to craft tables with a travertine base, and her Ballast coffee table features interlocking joints that make a bold statement. She values the tension between lightweight and strength, often using structural systems like gridded or dry joint construction.
Form and Function: The Tactile Art of Furniture Making
Georgie Szymanski finds joy in the tactile nature of furniture making, especially in an increasingly digital world. She believes that engaging with physical materials helps connect the body and mind, offering a counterbalance to our reliance on technology. Her creation, the Light Chair, is on display during Melbourne Design Week, inspired by Gio Ponti’s Leggera chair.
Szymanski works primarily with Australian timbers, focusing on offcuts to reduce waste. She is currently developing a second iteration of the Light Chair, aiming to balance artistry with functionality.
Music from Machines: A Unique Soundscape
Raven Mahon, a musician turned furniture designer, has brought a fresh perspective to the field. After moving to Australia, she found inspiration in her partnership with Mikey Young, leading to the formation of the band Green Child. Away from music, Mahon crafts custom-made furniture, including turntables, side tables, and chairs with a mid-century modern twist.
At Melbourne Design Week, Mahon collaborates with Avendaño-Hazbún to create a soundscape that complements her timber works. She recorded the machines used in Avendaño-Hazbún’s studio, turning the process of creation into an auditory experience. Mahon adds melodic elements, blending guitars and synths to reflect the punk-inspired energy behind the project.
Melbourne Design Week: A Celebration of Innovation
Melbourne Design Week continues until May 24, offering a platform for emerging and established designers to showcase their work. This event highlights the growing influence of women in the design industry, as well as the increasing focus on sustainability and innovation. Through their creative processes and commitment to environmental responsibility, these female woodworkers are shaping the future of design.
