Somerset Maitland-Robinson

Somerset's passion for design and making began at an early age, influenced by his mother, Caroline, a cabinet maker who trained under renowned furniture designer and craftsman John Makepeace. Growing up surrounded by finely crafted furniture gave him a deep appreciation for thoughtful design and its impact on everyday life.

Having always been fascinated by how things are made and how they function. That curiosity, combined with an early exposure to fine furniture, shaped both Somerset's understanding of construction and his respect for well-considered objects.

After initially working as a skiing instructor, Somerset moved to London to study at the Building Crafts College before working as a furniture maker. Wanting to develop his own voice, he went on to study at Robinson House Studio, where he learned both making and design from Theo Cook and business development from Mark Fish.

Nature remains Somerset's primary source of inspiration, particularly the contrasts found in mountain landscapes from his time skiing. He also draws influence from Art Deco and Expressionist movements, which often inform his use of form and material contrast.

Somerset's favourite stage of making is when a piece begins to come together midway through the process when individual elements transform into a coherent whole and is able to source materials as locally as possible, working with nearby timber suppliers to ensure quality and provenance remain central to his practice.

Somerset greatly values British design and craftsmanship, and the growing appreciation for pieces that are both designed and made in the UK, where quality and individuality remain key and currently developing a series of new works and commissions, continuing to explore material contrast, form, and refined craftsmanship.