Natural Teak Natural Living
David Stansfield, owner and founder of the Teak Tree, created his business idea while exploring the sights of the world. He began in Australia, but, he didn't stay there. Asutralia gave way to Indonesia, and a different way of seeing furniture.
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In Indonesia, Stansfield encountered a uniquely designed folding table made of teak: a surprisingly dense wood that does not require any additional staining or protection. After some experiments with importing starting in 1999, he decided that he could do better than other furniture stores out there. And in 2004, he opened the Teak Tree. The various furniture designs that Stansfield produces show the versatility of this unique wood. A tour through his Nanaimo-based store shows not only an assortment of chairs and tables, but armoires and bar-settings as well. And he makes furniture for both indoor and outdoor settings. Many of his creations can be left outside, exposed to rain and the elements, for well over 50 years. The wood is joined using innovative woodworking techniques, or use brass hardware to avoid possible rusting. Further, the Teak Tree remains internationally friendly. All of Stansfield's building materials come straight from Indonesia, grown on a dedicated plantation: no wood is taken from endangered rainforests. He deals directly with a group of craftspeople in Indonesia. So, this means buying from the Teak Tree supports people that are often exploited by large factories and corporate enterprises; these craftspeople may not have other opportunities for making a comfortable living. To date, Stansfield has done over 500 designs. Much of his work he describes as "functional art" which will be his legacy. Furniture designed to last at least 50 years will be around long after generations have changed. While Stansfield may have a number of interesting pieces on display, don't let a visit to the Teak Tree limit your design potential. |
Stansfield manages his own production. He welcomes custom projects for individual houses. How many home owners can boast that their lawn and patio furniture is as old as their house? And how many could claim that the furniture is still in like-new condition? Teak Tree investments could very easily outlive many other home renovation projects. The only way to truly appreciate all the good qualities teak could bring to your home is to visit the Teak Tree for yourself. Very few people capture a more natural and sustainable lifestyle as well as David Stansfield.
The Teak Tree is located at 437 Fitzwilliam Street, Nanaimo,
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