Forest Dickey, SF: Varian Designs

2013-10-03T12:52:54.036Z

Named for my late grandmother, I founded Varian Designs in 2008. Centered around 5 "core" designs as well as a commitment to using sustainably sourced materials, I am interested in designing original furniture that people will cherish for generations. The creation of every piece in my collections is a different. At times I am inspired by particular architectural element, bridge footers, spans, and a piece grows from that. Other times I am generally inspired to see something new. My chairs grew from the simple process of sketching. Draw it, make it, refine it, make it again. My offerings have grown from 5 designs to 14. I am always developing new pieces, always refining past designs and improving the craft of designing and making. I would like to continue to do that and also expand my production capacity while maintaining the intimacy I have with the materials and process. This is a true challenge, how do I grow and keep the integrity of the designs and the craftsmanship?

What makes your business unique?
I am interested in the extended history of which my furniture is a part. Be it the building from which the material was reclaimed, the tree from which the material was harvested or the architectural and furniture designs that inspired different aspects of its form, I feel its important to recognize the made object’s place in a timeline. I like the idea of honoring those inspiring elements so that when the furniture enters a client’s home, it carries with it an understanding, a commitment, to maintaining a standard of craftsmanship and design.

What's the best business advice you've received?
"Keep on trucking." From my mother in law. I think it is important to just keep working hard, keep doing what you are doing.

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Forest Dickey, SF: Varian Designs