Embracing the dark arts with Malcolm Lewis

It you’re looking for ‘cookie-cutter’ interiors, then you’re in the wrong place. Malcolm Lewis explains how his bold and emotive designs address both furniture and art worlds with artistic aplomb

What inspired a career in furniture design?

I’ve always had a creative mind but never put my ideas to good use until I started renovating our home fifteen years ago. When I finished, I decided to try and convert the concepts in my head into furniture pieces that were as much works of art as they were functional.

You’re self-taught. Tell us more about your learning techniques

I’ve attended a number of workshops, but most of my learning has come from experimentation and observation of artistic practices. When I have an idea, I persevere until I have the skills needed to create it.

What are your favourite materials to work with?

I love oak, walnut, bronze, copper and aluminium. Oak is so durable and I love the rich colour of walnut when oiled. While metal is not normally tactile or organic looking when used in design, the finishes and techniques I use transform it into something different from its natural form.

What commission are you most proud of?

I’m especially happy with my new art piece to store luxury watches. The cabinet is made of oak and bronze. The entire piece was made by me, including the interior watch box made from solid bronze, aluminium, oak and leather. This is also sold as an individual piece.

Where do you find inspiration from?

From living creatures, some recognisable and others from my imagination. I’ve always been fascinated by sci-fi. The textures I create are inspired by rocks I used to pick up on Holy Island, a stunning spot on the Northumberland coast I visited as a child.

Your designs are off-the-wall, almost dark.

While I don’t often set out to make ‘dark’ pieces, I recognise that’s the way they sometimes turn out. They can be polarising and certainly not to everyone’s taste. I don’t follow trends or set out to create versions that are already out there. I especially enjoy working on commissions where I can create something clients will truly love that’s in my signature style.

www.malcolmlewisdesigns.com

Instagram: malcolm74.ml

Tel: +44 7859 388 886