An Interview With Tom Raffield

Based in Cornwall, England, Tom Raffield showcases distinctive and innovative designs, celebrated for masterful craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices. Since its inception, the brand has become synonymous with beautifully handcrafted wooden lighting, homeware, and furniture pieces that seamlessly blend traditional techniques with contemporary design.

With a deep-rooted passion for nature and a dedication to environmentally conscious production methods, Tom Raffield creates timeless steam-bent pieces that enhance living spaces and reflect a harmonious balance between artistry and sustainability.

We sat down with Tom to discover what inspires him and what a day in his life looks like!

How and why did Tom come to start TR?

“I began my journey because of a deep love for craftsmanship and a fascination with the natural world. The desire to create unique and sustainable designs after discovering the age-old tradition steam bending techniques at Art College, led to the inception of Tom Raffield. This passion for craftsmanship and nature has been the driving force behind my work”.

What does a day in the life of TR look like?

“I’m lucky to say a day in the life is filled with creativity and dedication. I start my day with a coffee, and connecting with the natural world, drawing inspiration from the woodlands and seascapes that surround me. I can often be found in my workshop, honing my skills, and collaborating with my team to bring our designs to life. Sustainability and innovation are at the core of everything we do, and we constantly strive to push the boundaries of design”

Why is sustainability important in lighting?

“Sustainability is paramount in lighting because it ensures that we are not depleting the Earth's resources unnecessarily. By creating sustainable lighting, that lasts a lifetime of happy memories, we reduce our environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. Our sustainable lighting not only conserves energy but also uses responsibly sourced materials, further reducing our ecological footprint”.

<!-- removing FSC temporarily What makes your lights sustainable?

“Our lights are sustainable due to the use of locally sourced, FSC-certified wood and the craftsmanship techniques we employ, such as steam bending. We also encourage energy-efficient LED bulbs and ensure that our manufacturing processes minimise waste. By selecting materials carefully and using low-impact production methods, we make our designs as planet friendly as possible”.

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Which is your favourite Tom Raffield light?

“It's hard to pick a favourite lighting design as each piece holds a special place in my heart. However, if I had to choose, I would say that the No.1 Pendant is particularly special to me. Whilst not only being a craft that only a few can master, it embodies the essence of what we do – elegant, organic, and sustainable design”.

Any specific styling inspiration?

“Styling inspiration for our lights often comes from nature and the beauty of the organic forms found in the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow, along with the unique character of wood, serve as our guiding inspirations. We aim to create pieces that seamlessly blend with various interior styles, enhancing any space”.

Any particular kitchen styling tips?

“For kitchen lighting, it's important to consider both functionality and aesthetics. Pendant lights above a kitchen island or dining area can add a touch of elegance and provide adequate task lighting. Opt for warm, inviting tones to create a cosy atmosphere. Our Skipper Pendant, with its organic form, has proven to be a great choice for kitchens – I am sure Naked Kitchens can agree!”

What’s in the pipeline for TR?

“In terms of our future plans, we're continually exploring new designs and pushing the boundaries of sustainable craftsmanship. We aim to expand our lighting ranges in the new year and continue our commitment to sustainable practices. Expect to see more innovative and beautiful lighting and homeware solutions from us in the future!”.

For a limited time, Tom Raffield is offering Naked Kitchens 15% off for our readers! This discount cannot be used on Lightbulbs, Bundles, Gift Cards or any already discounted products. Use the discount code NAKED15 until the 18th of February 2024!