Every piece carries its own unique grain, curve, and branching form, blurring the line between functional furniture and sculptural objects of raw natural beauty.
British designer Gavin Munro and his team have redefined furniture-making with an extraordinary approach: growing furniture rather than building it.
By harnessing the natural growth patterns of willow and other trees, they guide young shoots through custom molds, pruning and shaping them as they develop. Over the course of several years, the trees gradually mature into fully formed chairs, tables, and even lampshades.
The entire process depends solely on sunlight, rain, and time. No industrial machinery is used, but the work requires patience and perseverance, facing challenges from unpredictable weather, pests, and animals. From planting to harvest, a single piece takes at least six years to complete.
Because each item is shaped by hand and nature itself, no two are ever alike. The resulting works combine function with the wild aesthetic of living sculpture.
This rarity and labor-intensive process come at a price. A chair sells for around 24,000 RMB (approximately USD 3,300), while lampshades start at 9,000 RMB, reflecting the immense time and craftsmanship invested.
At a moment when sustainable design is increasingly valued, Munro’s “plant sculptures” provoke deeper conversations about slow design, natural materials, and consumer culture. While large-scale production is unlikely, the team continues to experiment with more complex designs, including bookshelves and chests of drawers.
Could we one day grow an entire sofa in our own backyard? Munro’s vision is keeping both designers and environmentalists dreaming of new possibilities.
Source: 77° Global Furnishings Media
