Crafting Legacy: Martin Taylor’s Journey from Antiques to Hospitality Furniture
The story of Taylor’s Classics stands as a beacon of adaptation and enduring style. Martin Taylor, the visionary behind the brand, took us on a journey from the company’s humble beginnings to its status as a key player in the contract and hospitality furniture industry.
Martin Taylor, Founder of Taylor’s Classics
Reflecting on the inception of Taylor’s Classics in 1978, Martin shared “It was the year I got married to my beautiful wife Ruth, and together we embarked on this adventure, transforming a Georgian property in Shifnal into our launchpad.”
As the conversation progressed, Martin recounted the pivotal moment in 2007/08 when the antique market’s dynamics shifted dramatically. This period prompted a significant transformation for Taylor’s Classics, moving from antique dealing to crafting bespoke furniture for the hospitality sector. Martin’s narrative highlighted the necessity of this shift, “The antique business was on fire until it wasn’t, forcing us to rethink our direction and focus on supplying the hospitality industry with our unique blend of historical design and modern functionality.”
Taylor’s Classics
When asked about the inspiration behind the Birch collection, Martin’s enthusiasm was palpable. He described his long-standing admiration for the antique Birch chairs and how this affection gave birth to a collection that marries classic aesthetics with contemporary needs. “I’ve always been drawn to the design of the Birch chair, its elegant back columns, and bun finials. It was about taking that inspiration and adapting it for today’s use, making it more comfortable and durable while retaining its character.”
Birch Chair by Taylor’s Classics
The conversation then shifted to one of Taylor’s Classics’ most distinctive pieces – the three-legged chair. Martin’s discovery of this unique design in an antique centre in Lincolnshire led to its inclusion in their catalogue. He detailed the chair’s design considerations, noting its practicality and appeal in various settings. “The three-legged chair, with its stability and comfort, is perfect for a pub or a cosy reading nook, offering a piece that’s as functional as it is intriguing.”
3 Legged Chair by Taylor’s Classics
Martin’s vision for Taylor’s Classics extends beyond just creating furniture; it’s about crafting pieces that leave a lasting impression, balancing form and function. His dedication to this craft is evident in every piece that comes out of their Stafford workshop, where a team of skilled artisans brings his visions to life. Looking to the future, Martin remains committed to innovation while staying true to the core values that have defined Taylor’s Classics over the decades: quality, sustainability, and timeless design.
Find Taylor’s Classics on Supplier Finder
Supplier Finder is the UK’s only search platform for accredited suppliers of commercial interior furnishings.
At Supplier Finder, our mission is simple: to help you find the perfect commercial furnishing suppliers for your interior schemes and projects. We understand the importance of having confidence in the suppliers you specify and the products that bring your designs to life. That’s why each supplier featured on our platform is accredited through Commercial Interiors UK’s rigorous membership application process. This ensures that you engage with only the best in the industry!