10/03/2026
Hey! I thought it had been a while since I introduced myself. I’m Tab van der Lande, a Furniture Designer Maker based in London.
I design and make bespoke pieces from solid wood, working directly with clients to make their dreams a reality.
My passion for working with wood started from a young age with a desire to work with my hands. I went on a spoon carving course which gave me a deeper understanding of wood and its grain. The satisfaction of starting with a log and ending in a soft tactile product was amazing. I then went to a talk at The Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft hosted by Sebastian Cox.
After being inspired to get in a workshop Seb offered me an internship and then went on to offer me an apprenticeship. I studied Architectural Bench Joinery at The Building Crafts College. I learnt how to draw and make traditional doors, windows, aches and staircases using hand tools.
I completed my apprenticeship and went from Apprentice Furniture Designer Maker to Lead Furniture Designer Maker, CNC Operator, Apprentice Supervisor and Head of Mainternance during my 7 years at Sebastian Cox Ltd.
I was designing and making fine hardwood furniture to tight deadlines, both bespoke one-off pieces like tree houses and beds along with batches of products including chairs and bedside tables.
I worked on and made furniture that has been in an exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum, in The British Film Institute and in magazines such as Elle Decoration and Dezeen. Along with pieces in hotels, private gardens, The Chelsea Flower Show, Aesop stores and Crabtree & Evelyn shops. As well as many pieces for interior designers and private homes.
I learnt a lot in my 7 years. It gave be the confidence to begin my journey to design and make things for my own clients.
I became a Freeman of The Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers. I met so many like-minded young makers and industry experts. It gave me a sense of community. That community has supported me through my 8 years in industry.
I am now working at The Royal College of Art during term time. My role as a technician involves helping MA Level students design and make one off pieces, using a range of materials.
