We are proud to share a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability from our collaboration with Maitre Artisan Richard Rolland.
“Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by wood. By age 12, I knew woodworking was my calling. After learning cabinetmaking and gaining 15 years of experience, I decided to start my own company.
I work with many types of wood, but beech has always been my favorite for its hard, light, and clean qualities. In recent years, I’ve also used modern materials like MDF and melamine to balance budget and finish variety.
Recently, I discovered Maplex, a new material that’s lightweight, eco-friendly (A++++), and works like wood. This represents an exciting development for my work, particularly for large pieces like table tops and cabinet doors, where weight and strength are key factors.
One challenge is determining the best tools and techniques for joining Maplex panels, as it behaves differently from traditional wood. With two pieces already made, I’m learning new methods that play to Maplex’s strengths.
Its key benefits are clear: lightness and its strong ecological credentials, both of which are essential as we aim to protect our environment. I see a growing demand for sustainable materials, which is crucial for a better future. As a grandparent, I believe we must change our practices and embrace new innovations. Maplex feels like the right step towards creating modern, circular furniture that can be reused, repaired, and recycled, ultimately reducing our environmental impact.”
We’re honored to work with a craftsman like Richard Rolland who shares our passion for sustainability and innovation. Follow us for more updates on this journey towards greener solutions in design and craftsmanship.
