Nitcharn + Kotawan: Breathing New Life into Old Wood

Nitcharn + Kotawan: Breathing New Life into Old Wood

Amidst the bustling streets of Bangkok, Nitcharn Chankranchanukul and Kotawan Boonprasert have emerged as rising stars in the realm of sustainable design. Their shared passion for craftsmanship and preserving the past has led them to create extraordinary pieces of furniture that breathe new life into old wood. Nitcharn, a trained architect, and Kotawan, a self-taught woodworker, met while working on a project to renovate an old house. They discovered their common interest in honoring the stories embedded in aging wood and began experimenting with ways to transform it into contemporary art pieces. One of their signature techniques is “upcycling,” where they repurpose discarded wood from demolition sites or old furniture. Each piece of wood carries its own unique history and imperfections, which they celebrate rather than conceal. By carefully treating and sanding the wood, they reveal its natural beauty and patina. In their studio, Nitcharn and Kotawan work together to design and create their furniture. They meticulously select each piece of wood and arrange them in harmonious patterns, balancing the old with the new. Their designs are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, with a strong focus on durability and sustainability. “We believe that old wood has a soul and a story to tell,” says Nitcharn. “By repurposing it, we not only reduce waste but also preserve the legacy of the past.” Kotawan adds, “We want our furniture to evoke a sense of nostalgia and connection to the natural world. By using reclaimed wood, we create pieces that are both unique and timeless.” The duo’s work has garnered international recognition and has been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications. Their furniture pieces have found homes in both private collections and public spaces, adding a touch of history and sustainability to modern interiors. Nitcharn and Kotawan’s collaboration is a testament to the power of breathing new life into old materials. Their innovative designs not only reduce environmental impact but also create beautiful and meaningful objects that connect us to the past and the natural world.Nitcharn Kotawan: Bringing New Life to Old Wood

Nitcharn Kotawan: Bringing New Life to Old Wood

With his sustainable designs, master craftsman Nitcharn Kotawan transforms reclaimed wood into stunning furniture pieces. Nitcharn’s passion for using reclaimed wood ignited after witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of turtle ornaments made from the material. These ornaments showcased the potential of reusing wood to breathe new life into products.

Sustainability and Durability

Kotawan’s sustainability factor stems from his recognition of the environmental impact of industrial wood processing. By reusing old wood, he eliminates the need to cut down trees and reduces pollution caused by wood dust. Additionally, reclaimed wood is inherently durable and less prone to cracking, making it a sustainable choice.

Unique Properties and Functional Benefits

Reclaimed wood possesses unique patterns and imperfections that appeal to Nitcharn’s design aesthetic. Imperfections, such as holes, can be incorporated into his designs, enhancing the character of each piece. The strength and durability of old wood make it an excellent choice for furniture designed to last generations. Teak wood, commonly used in Nitcharn’s designs, is particularly suitable for outdoor use due to its resistance to weather conditions.

Design Philosophy and Inspiration

Nitcharn’s design philosophy emphasizes functionality and aesthetics. He leans towards simple designs that showcase the raw beauty of the wood. Techniques like “shou sugi ban,” a Japanese method of preserving wood by charring it, add depth and character to his pieces.

Recognition and Awards

Nitcharn’s outstanding craftsmanship has garnered recognition and awards, including the Emerging Designer Award 2023 from Silpakorn University. However, he remains humble, preferring to focus on his craft rather than seeking recognition.

Comparison to International Craftsmanship

Despite limited tools and resources in Thailand, Nitcharn believes Thai craftsmen possess exceptional ingenuity and resourcefulness. By overcoming constraints, they find innovative solutions and achieve high levels of craftsmanship comparable to their global counterparts.

Upcoming Collaborations and Future Projects

Nitcharn is collaborating with Double V Space Interior Studio to create a new line of desks. He is also expanding the Anew collection with wool furniture. These upcoming projects showcase his commitment to sustainable and innovative design.Nitcharn and Kotawan are breathing new life into old wood and transforming it into beautiful furniture and home decor. The duo, who are based in Bangkok, Thailand, use traditional Thai woodworking techniques to create their unique pieces. They source their wood from old houses and temples, and often use reclaimed wood that would otherwise be discarded. Nitcharn and Kotawan’s work is inspired by the natural beauty of wood. They use a variety of woods, including teak, rosewood, and ebony, and they often combine different woods to create unique and eye-catching designs. Their furniture is both functional and beautiful, and it is sure to add a touch of warmth and elegance to any home. In addition to creating furniture, Nitcharn and Kotawan also teach woodworking classes. They want to share their love of woodworking with others and help people to create their own beautiful pieces. They believe that woodworking is a great way to relax and de-stress, and it is also a great way to learn about Thai culture. Nitcharn and Kotawan’s work has been featured in several magazines and newspapers, and they have also been invited to exhibit their work at several art shows. They are passionate about their work, and they are proud to be able to share their love of woodworking with others.