Konk is a multidisciplinary design studio and workshop producing bespoke pieces of furniture for both commercial and residential clients. All of their stunning pieces are handmade to order from their Bristol workshop.
First thought up by Alex, they have expanded into one of the South West’s leading bespoke furniture manufacturers. We caught up with Alex to find out more about Konk and what they do.
Who is Alex?
“I’m originally from Cheltenham and I studied architecture, but I soon realised that I didn't want to be an architect. So I started designing and making a few pieces of furniture for myself.
I started Konk in early 2016, I was a gardener at the time and driving back and forth from Bristol to my mum's garage in Cheltenham to make furniture in my spare time. My first project was a bookcase. In fact, it's now called our 'Classic Bookcase' and has probably been one of the most consistently best-selling items we have.
What makes Konk special?
“We started off making what I would describe as high-quality' industrial style furniture. Nowadays we are moving more towards a modern interpretation of mid-century design combined with Japanese and Scandinavian influences."
"We have a commitment to quality and simplicity. Everything also needs to be customised. We very rarely sell any of our products at a standard size. About 90% of orders sent out are bespoke customisations from our standard range. We're, hopefully, bringing craft and bespoke furniture making into a reasonably affordable price point."
What are some of your favourite Konk pieces?
“I do love making the Namjou Easel. It has lots of fiddly components and requires a wide set of skills and tools to make - when it all assembles together at the end and works it's a really satisfying feeling.”
What trends do you think are likely to continue?
“I think there will be (or already is) a trend toward considered minimalism. That is, the idea of having only a few objects to fill a room, but ensuring those objects are beautiful and well made in themselves. I hope this is a new trend anyway, it's great for both makers and the environment.”
