A little about me
I have had an interest in woodworking since high school. I later worked in the timber industry in South East South Australia, where I developed a real appreciation for timber and the possibilities of working with it.
After working as a trades assistant for a cabinetmaker, I decided I wanted to develop my skills further and commenced a Diploma of Arts (Furniture Design) at Onkaparinga TAFE, Noarlunga. I was fortunate to have some wonderful lecturers, including Ron Dunstan, Tony Nichols and Sue Whittaker, and to study alongside a talented group of furniture designers including Heather Daff, Todd Robinson, Isaac Micklem, Aimee Pamment, Cori Stansall, Daniel Phillips and Brett Elliott
I truly enjoyed my time at TAFE. It was one of the most rewarding and exciting periods of my life, and I still carry very fond memories of the people, the learning and the freedom to explore new ideas.
From there I went on to design and make a wide variety of furniture and cabinetry, from one-off pieces and commissioned furniture to kitchens, built-in cabinetry and other interior work. My furniture has included both traditional and contemporary designs, using Australian and imported timbers as well as materials such as aluminium, stainless steel and solid acrylic.
Several of my furniture pieces received first prize at exhibitions, but what has always mattered most to me is the making itself — developing an idea, solving the practical problems and producing something well made that will last.
This website brings together photographs of some of that work from over the years. Some of the photographs are old and a few pieces were never photographed at all, but together they provide a record of the furniture I've designed and made and the skills I've developed along the way.
email darrenchapmandesigns@gmail.com
phone 0409 873 480
