Furniture designer Simon Doyle (31) studied philosophy and worked on building sites, before setting up his own studio. He loves the honesty of construction, as well as simplicity, elegance, balance – and a little asymmetry too. His work features in Portfolio, an exhibition of some of Ireland’s leading makers, opening in Kilkenny later this month.
"I was born in Dublin, and while I was always interested in art as a kid, I never pursued it, so I guess it was kind of a circuitous route that took me to design. There was just something about it that always interested me. I worked as a carpenter on building sites, and really enjoyed the physical side of the work, and then was lucky enough to get work experience with Stevan Hartung at his workshop out in Blessington."
"From there, I applied to study at Letterfrack Furniture College, where I was able to explore my skills, really push them. Letterfrack is an amazing place, and I was very happy there. But I had to move on, so I came back to Dublin and set up my studio here."
"I have loved seeing my pieces going into people’s houses, how they interact with them on a daily basis. It’s a nice revelation to see them enjoy something that I’ve made. Currently I work to commission, but I’m developing a range that can be produced without sacrificing quality."
"I usually work out the design first, though I’ll be conscious of the material I’m going to use. I work with a supplier of Irish hardwoods in Wicklow: elm, cherry, beech, oak – not exotic, but lovely to use."
"I like the Shaker approach to making, reducing things to their essential elements. I like a certain awkwardness too, asymmetry can be interesting. When I’m sketching, there’s the space for happy accidents, but the finished pieces must have that beauty, quality and honesty in their form."
Portfolio is at the National Craft Gallery, Kilkenny, March 27th to April 28th. nationalcraftgallery.ie; simon-doyle.com