History of the school

A vision for fine furniture making and design

In 1985 one of the UK's leading furniture designers, Anselm Fraser, bought a crumbling farm steading in the heart of the East Lothian countryside. His vision was to transform the 19th century stone barn into one of the world's leading independent furniture making and design schools.

 

Stone by stone, joist by joist, he and his wife Antonia slowly transformed the neglected farm building into a world-class school of furniture recognised for its dedication to high quality furniture design and making skills.

 

From acorn to oak - A world class school passionate about furniture making and design

The school grew steadily, wth three or four students a year, but as its reputation for excellence in traditional and modern furniture making spread, so numbers increased.

 

Today up to 20 students a year undertake the professional course that runs from October through to early June. A full time furniture course its graduates have gone on to design furniture, create to commission and even teach.

 

There are five full time members of staff, a host of visiting experts from design and practical backgrounds. Commercial workshops for school graduates who want to start their own business are also provided.

 

Anselm also runs an award winning furniture making and restoration business alongside the school and is an inspirational speaker on the history of furniture design and woodworking.

 

Want to find out more?

Read about some past Chippendale school students

Find out about course content

Download our syllabus

 

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