Dear Friends,

It is about 20 years since I first set off on a craftsman's journey that began at the London College of Furniture. I remember leaving there believing I had learned most of the skills I would need to embark on a career as a crafstman. It would seem that my journey's purpose, since then, has been to continually disprove that notion.

As my path has twisted and turned like a vine climbing a tall tree through the realms of antique restoration, production furniture making, fine built-in cabinetry and, of course, one-off custom furniture design, there has been one constant: Learning has been a continual process. I remain in awe of the talent that has left its legacy of fine furniture from centuries past, and respectful of my fellow furniture makers still creating heirloom quality pieces today. My goal continues to be to make a meaningful and lasting contribution to this small segment of furniture history.

Every piece of my furniture is made by hand, made to order, and made to last. All of the hand crafted products found in the Stowe Gallery and in the Home Decor section of this website have been selected with an eye toward the same level of workmanship and design.

I hope you like what you see.
With best wishes,
John Lomas

ABOUT MY DESIGNS:

Cotswold's designs are inspired by the Arts and Crafts Movement in the Cotswolds, the Shakers in America and my own understanding of classical proportion. Our work is known as Transitional Furniture Design that combines traditional as well as contemorary elements resulting in furniture that fits well into both worlds. Most importantly we strive for designs that will be as pleasing and relevant 50 or 100 years from now as they are today.

At the workshop, our furniture design and construction philosophy is strongly influenced by the Cotswold craftsmen. From lumber selection to finishing, we strive for perfection in every detail of the furniture making process. The finest American hardwoods—American Black Cherry, Quartersawn Northern White Oak, Black Walnut, and others—are used to provide balance and symmetry in the completed piece. These are joined by time-tested techniques—Mortise and tenon, dovetail, bridle, and cross-halving joints—that guarantee integrity for many life times over. By hand–rubbing oils into the surfaces of the completed furniture, we provide protection, highlight the figure in the grain and enhance the natural, soft feel of the wood.

Finally, each piece is signed by the craftsman and inlaid with the pewter squirrel medallion. The squirrel motif is taken from a 1904 Ernest Gimson design for a pair of andirons. The medallion symbolizes not only our respect for the legacy left by the Cotswold craftsmen, but also the lifetime of pleasure and use that can be expected from every piece of furniture that we create.