Furniture

TIDE Design · Brixton and Napier

Last week’s DenFair re-connected us with a number of local design brands we haven’t touched base with in a while… and proved opportune timing to take a look at new designs from Melbourne’s TIDE design.

Huntingdale-based furniture maker George Harper introduces his cosy Brixton armchair, and the meticulously crafted Napier sideboard.

Written
by
Elle Murrell

TIDE design‘s new cosy Brixton armchair, which was released at Denfair last week. Photo – courtesy of TIDE Design.

Detail of the Brixton armchair, a design evolved from experiments with elliptical shapes. Photo – courtesy of TIDE Design.

‘Heart driven, soul delivered,’ says George Harper when he’s asked to define his Huntingdale-based furniture label TIDE Design. We last showcased this prolific local design studio back in 2015, and since then George has been focused on growing his business. ‘It really is a dynamic organism that requires constant nurturing,’ he tells.

TIDE Design unveiled its newest offerings at Denfair in Melbourne this past weekend. ‘There is definitely a subtle evolution occurring and we feel like we are really starting to nail the TIDE look – that is, strong but subtle forms, careful uncluttered detailing and warm and muted tones,’ explains George.

Their new Brixton armchair embodies a slew of TIDE signatures – contrasting curves and straight lines, sculptural forms and carefully resolved details. The relaxed piece evolved from experiments cutting through rounded profiles to create elliptical shapes, which ended up being incorporated as subtle detail on the insides of the legs. The design pairs plush upholstery with a fine silhouette and sturdy frame, available in American Oak with a drift natural oil finish.

The Napier sideboard is a similarly complex build; ‘the methodology is a multi-page epic,’ details George, who has employed hidden hinges for a seamless look inside and out. The design hints at subtle organic and aeronautical forms, and is made from American Oak veneered plywood with solid timber edging. It comprises six solid timber drawers with hidden soft close runners, and two outer cupboards. ‘The unique leg structure and handles of the Napier sideboard came as a bolt out of the blue at the pub,’ says George. ‘I was early for a gig and had a spare half an hour to contemplate… it really was a drawing on a napkin moment!’

For more information on TIDE Design, visit the website, here.

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