Chapel Bench

In 2021 I had the pleasure of visiting my home town of Ilfracombe whilst my family and I were still residing in Southern California. On this trip I had the opportunity of traveling to a remote island off the south west coast of England called Lundy Island.

Having lived in Southern California for ten years I always drew resemblances with Catalina Island of the coast of California to Lundy Island in England seeing an island about the same amount of miles away in both places always made me feel close to home.

St Helen’s Church Lundy Island.

Lundy Island is no longer inhabited by the public but is looked after by the National Trust and takes visitors there via the MS Oldenburg. On the Island is an Old church of St Helen’s, the church was started in 1244 and was filled with many incredible pieces of furniture of which i was most intrigued to study.

One of the Benches found in St Helen’s church.

In the church there were many benches built in various different styles and it inspired me to design and build a bench which would resemble the sturdy construction, comfortable proportions and the deep rich purpose of creating a bench in which to sit throughout all of life’s seasons. To think about all the people over the centuries sitting on these benches worshiping, mourning, celebrating together as they sojourn with each other was something truly special and made me realize about the importance of surrounding yourself with furniture which will also be with you through life’s journey.

Made from solid White Oak with through tenon joinery and Walnut wedges. I hope the Chapel Bench will be one of those pieces that will become apart of your heritage.

The Chapel Bench. - 2021