Yealm Hotel Tree Bench

We have recently completed this tree bench - wrapping around a big three-stemmed cluster of beech trees overlooking the Yealm Estuary. This follows on from an earlier commission for a garden area within the same development. The old Yealm Hotel, which was in a dangerous state of disrepair has been bought and transformed into luxury apartments. This green wood garden bench will give the new residents a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy fabulous views over the busy estuary. It is made entirely from sweet chestnut. The legs were cleaved from freshly cut (green) logs, and the top was built from four sections - each attached to the adjoining piece with 16mm marine grade stainless steel round bar. All the pieces have been carefully worked by hand using traditional tools such as the draw-knife and spoke-shave. This gives a wonderful organic and natural feel to the finished piece. The tree was standing on the Gnaton Estate until it fell victim to the Great Storm of 1987 - (that famous Michael Fish moment). It was dragged up a hill by three brothers who lived in the nearby village of Mothecombe, using a clever arrangement of ropes and a tractor. It was then transported to a local sawmill at Yealmbridge where it was converted to planks. The tree has lain, undisturbed for over 30 years, in the shed of a local timber enthusiast and woodworker. I am slowly working my way through the stacks, attempting to make furniture which is worthy of what must have been a mighty and magnificent tree. Click here to see the initial bench commission.