Article from Stories magazine Vol.24. Written by Victoria Sait.
From the vast Appalachian Mountains to the comfort of your home, every piece of timber we use to craft furniture built to last a lifetime has a story worth telling.
It’s thought that around 73% of timber used in British furniture making is imported. At Neptune, our mission is to make furniture that will last 100 years, so sourcing from the most responsible forestry schemes is crucial. We work with those across the US and Canada that offer excellence in forest management and materials alongside decades of experience, ensuring we use only the best.
Our philosophy is all about the right material for the right purpose. It’s why we use solid oak that showcases the beauty of natural timber, sourced from the hardwood forests of the Appalachian Mountains. Stretching over 198 million acres of land, this ancient chain of forested mountains, valleys, and rivers is one of the most climate-resilient and carbon-rich landscapes in the world. The hardwood from this region is superior due to nutrient-rich soils, replenished by consistent annual rainfall, and the ideal growing climate. Such conditions produce slow, even tree growth with tight rings and dense fibres, creating timber prized for its durability, strength and natural beauty, perfect for crafting furniture.
The forestry management companies we work with are committed to sustainable practices. They are built on selective harvesting techniques which leave a more productive and higher quality timber stand, allowing for improved forest regeneration for future generations. In short, only mature trees are removed from the forest, providing space for more to grow.
Hardwood forests are also naturally sustainable. The Appalachian Mountains are estimated to have more than twice as much new wood growth (than removal) than a couple of decades ago.
As responsible timber furniture makers, we have always been clear that we want to work with the best wood suppliers to create furniture that lasts a lifetime. We’re committed to building and sustaining relationships with those whose standards are of global excellence, while also helping to ensure that the forests we rely on today continue to thrive for future generations.
By crafting furniture designed to be cherished for a lifetime, we honour both the material and the forests from which it comes.
