Harvesting Connections at Chiswick House

As creators Mark and I either have a brief to follow with clients being very clear about what they want, or we are creating from the heart and imaginations having free rein.

This project was different our client was the Chiswick house community and final outcome would be dictated by nature!

Connecting with the amazing Chiswick House community and taking our brief from them was a unique parts of this journey. I had the pleasure of meeting with Chiswick House staff, visitors and community partners to discuss ideas for the long table we’re creating—and let me tell you, these conversations were eye-opening and inspiring!

We started by talking about the Kitchen Garden, a space that clearly holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s more than just a garden—it’s a place where people come together, share experiences, and connect with nature in a very real way. As we listened, it became clear that this garden is cherished not only for the food it provides but for the sense of community it fosters. It’s a space where people feel grounded and connected, and that’s something we want to carry into the design of the long table.

Throughout these conversations, it was clear that tables were more than just furniture—they’re gathering places. They are where stories are told, where food is shared, where connections were made. The idea of creating a table for this space, one made from the trees that once stood tall in the woodlands, seemed to resonate deeply with everyone we spoke to. It felt like more than just a project—it felt like something that could really belong here, something that would be embraced by the entire community.

And of course, we couldn’t talk about tables without talking about food. We asked people what food means to them in the context of this project, and without fail, every time it brought a smile to their faces. Food is central to so many of our best memories. Whether it’s a quiet meal with family or a big celebration with friends, food has a way of bringing people together. It’s a universal language of connection.

Below is the virtual ideas board sharing what the community has to say.

As we begin to build this table, we’re keeping in mind everything we’ve learned from these conversations: the deep love people have for the Kitchen Garden, the importance of food as a connector, and the way a simple table can become the heart of a community. This project feels even more special knowing how much it means to the people who will be using it.

We left these conversations feeling not just inspired, but with a clear vision of what this table could become—a place for shared experiences, cherished moments, and a lasting connection to nature. We can’t wait to see it take shape and to watch it become a part of the Chiswick House story.

Thank you to everyone who shared your thoughts, stories, and ideas with us. You’ve made this project feel more meaningful than we ever imagined, and we’re so excited to keep you updated as we continue building this table that’s truly rooted in the heart of the community.