From Tree to Table: The Journey of a Bespoke Oak Chair by Dogan London

Joe C Dogan • 29 April 2025

At Dogan London, every piece of furniture tells a story. Our bespoke oak chairs are more than functional items; they embody the harmony of nature and craftsmanship. Let us take you through the meticulous journey of how we transform a towering oak tree into a timeless piece of furniture destined for your dining room.


The Forest: Selecting the Perfect Oak


Our journey begins in sustainably managed forests, where we source the finest oak trees. Each tree is carefully selected for its quality, maturity, and grain potential, ensuring that our furniture maintains its strength and beauty. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that the forests we rely on continue to thrive for generations.


From Forest to Workshop: Logging and Transportation


Once the perfect oak tree is chosen, it is expertly felled and trimmed of its branches. These logs are then transported to our trusted sawmill partners, who help us transform raw timber into the foundation of our bespoke pieces.


Precision Milling: Transforming Logs into Premium Lumber


At the sawmill, the oak logs are debarked and meticulously milled into planks. Our artisans choose quartersawn cuts to highlight the natural beauty of oak’s grain, ensuring stability and character in every piece. This process maximizes yield while respecting the integrity of the material.


Drying the Timber: Patience and Perfection


To ensure durability and prevent warping, the milled oak is air-dried for months before undergoing kiln-drying. This process reduces the wood’s moisture content to a stable level, making it ready for the precision craftsmanship that defines Dogan London furniture.


Design and Craftsmanship: The Heart of Bespoke Furniture


Every bespoke piece starts with a design tailored to our client’s vision. Using hand sketches or advanced CAD software, we create detailed plans that guide the creation of each component—from the legs to the backrest. These designs embody our philosophy of blending form and function seamlessly.


Crafting the Chair: Bringing the Design to Life


Our skilled craftsmen cut and shape each component with precision, using techniques honed over decades. Mortise and tenon joints, a hallmark of Dogan London’s quality, are meticulously crafted for strength and durability. Every cut, groove, and joint reflects our commitment to excellence.


Assembly: Where Pieces Become a Whole


The individual components are carefully assembled, ensuring perfect alignment and balance. Glue and clamps secure each joint, and our artisans meticulously inspect the structure to guarantee stability. At this stage, the chair begins to take on its unique character.


Finishing Touches: Sanding and Detailing


Once assembled, the chair is sanded to perfection. Starting with coarse grit and progressing to fine, our artisans bring out the oak’s natural texture, preparing it for the final stage. This attention to detail ensures a smooth and inviting finish.


The Perfect Finish: Enhancing Beauty and Durability


The chair is finished with carefully selected oils, waxes, or lacquers, enhancing the wood’s natural beauty while providing protection. Each finish is applied in multiple layers, with light sanding between coats to achieve a flawless result. This step brings the design to life and ensures the chair will stand the test of time.


Quality Assurance: Upholding the Dogan London Standard


Before leaving our workshop, every chair undergoes a rigorous inspection. We check for structural integrity, aesthetic consistency, and overall perfection. This ensures that every piece bearing the Dogan London name exceeds expectations.


From Our Workshop to Your Home


Your bespoke oak chair is carefully packaged and delivered with the utmost care, ready to become a cherished part of your home. Each chair is a testament to the craftsmanship, passion, and dedication that define Dogan London.


At Dogan London, we take pride in crafting furniture that embodies the finest materials and the highest standards of design and craftsmanship. From the forest to your dining table, every bespoke oak chair carries a legacy of artistry and sustainability. It’s not just furniture; it’s a piece of our story, made uniquely for you.

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