At Ivan Aleksander, integrity is at the core of our practices, and we firmly stand against the use of wood from unacceptable sources.
Illegally logged or traded
Commercially harvested virgin/new timber
Cheap wood from pallets
Fast-grown inexpensive softwood
Our dedication to sustainability extends to the exclusive use of solid hardwood—known for its durability and resilience against adverse conditions like rain and humidity. We take pride in sourcing all our wood locally, ensuring that it originates from indigenous trees and carries the weight of history.
Whether reclaimed or salvaged, every piece of wood we incorporate into our creations tells a story of endurance, contributing to a more ethical and responsible approach to craftsmanship at Ivan Aleksander.
From humble beginnings crafting for friends and neighbours, the time has come to extend an invitation directly from my workshop to you. Inspired by the natural wonders surrounding us, my creations embody a philosophy of slow and sustainable living in harmony with nature—a philosophy I'm eager to share with you and bring into your home.
Wooden items, I believe, have the power to infuse a sense of peace and harmony into our living spaces, positively impacting our overall well-being. This belief is mirrored not only in the items I create but also in the way we conduct our business. Join me on a journey to our shop, where unique creations await your discovery. I am confident you will find something special for your home or a thoughtful gift for someone dear.
Our reclaimed wood comes primarily in the form of aged beams that once served as the backbone of old houses, barns, and storage buildings.
With direct access to developers and builders, we procure this material straight from the source. This not only allows us to assess the wood's condition but also offers a glimpse into the environments it once inhabited, enriching our creations with a touch of history and authenticity.
Reclaimed wood stands as a premium material, surpassing the accessibility of new lumber found in traditional yards. Its elevated cost is justified by careful and labour-intensive extraction methods, its unparalleled aesthetic qualities, and the scarcity of its supply.
Beyond its age, the value of reclaimed wood lies in the stories it carries, the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its extraction, and its limited availability—making it a timeless investment in quality, history, and sustainability.
These spaces, categorized as old-growth forests, provide a sanctuary where trees slowly develop, shielded from harsh environmental conditions. The result? Wood with dense fibers, naturally stronger than its quick-growth counterparts found in new forests. While a steady and endless supply isn't feasible, we treasure salvaged wood for its rarity, creating exquisite and durable products with every carefully crafted piece.
Occasionally, we turn to wood from recently cut trees, always adhering to ethical felling practices. Our commitment to preserving and revering trees is unwavering, recognising that sometimes it is necessary to make the challenging decision to cut one down. This decision is prompted by factors such as roots causing structural issues, overgrowth posing safety hazards, or the tree being irreparably damaged by pests or disease.
In these instances, where the tree's life cycle takes a new turn, we collaborate with local arborists to ensure responsible felling practices. Once ethically sourced, the wood undergoes a transformative journey in our hands.
Expertly crafted into remarkable walnut pieces and other creations, we breathe new life into wood that might have otherwise been destined for firewood.
This sustainable approach not only preserves the legacy of each tree but also results in handcrafted, enduring pieces that embody the natural beauty and history of the wood itself.
We source this wood from our local arborist, who is an expert in tree care and responsible tree felling practices. His work goes beyond mere tree removal; it encompasses a thoughtful process of evaluating the health and well-being of individual trees in residential areas.
By entrusting the task to him, we ensure that each felling decision aligns with ethical and sustainable practices, contributing to the preservation of both trees and the local environment.
Every piece tells a story of its origin.
