We ventured to Baker’s two-floor showroom in Shenzhen last week for an exclusive look at their latest collections, as well as meeting the skilled craftsmen behind every design. Founded in 1890 as a cabinet maker, Baker has remained relevant by partnering with notable names in design for capsule collections, including Barbara Barry, Thomas Pheasant and Laura Kirar. The brand has also released newer collections by Paris-based designer Jean-Louis Deniot, offering a sophisticated take on 20^th century design, and edgier contemporary pieces from Kara Mann aimed at younger urbanites.

Behind the big names, however, lies a team of talented craftsmen who tirelessly work on transforming the designers’ visions into a reality by sourcing quality materials and employing artisanal techniques for individually handmade pieces. Baker recently invited John Kiryanoff, director of finishes, and master carver J.B. Gesler to Shenzhen to demonstrate their skills and share the stories behind the longstanding brand.

Commode from Stately Homes Collection

John Kiryanoff showed us how he was able to replicate designer Barbara Barry’s iconic Tide Pool fabric motif onto her striking Celestial Chest for Baker, recreating the look by stamping the fabric directly into gesso for a textural finish. John also shared how he finds inspiration from the most surprising forms, exemplified by the Kiosk Butlers cabinet by Bill Sofield, which imprints rice grains onto lacquered wood and is finished in a golden hue – it took them several months to find the type of grain that captured the effect they were after before finally settling on basmati rice. J.B. Gesler was equally animated when he spoke about pieces that tested his creativity and imagination, recalling how he created the floral texture of the St. Honoré cabinet by Thomas Pheasant using clay and wood before moulds were made for production.

St. Honoré Chest from Thomas Pheasant Collection

Learning how furniture is made is one effort in showcasing its value and igniting an appreciation for the item. There’s a human touch to every single detail, from the sofa springs, which are individually affixed, to the hand-carved wooden detailing and signature finishes defining every Baker piece.

By: Beverly Cheng

All images courtesy of Baker Furniture