Heirloom Rocking Chairs
Custom. Creative. Craftsmanship.
Custom-made heirloom rocking chairs.
Why rocking chairs?
I saw the rocking chairs that Sam Maloof (1916-2009) built, and building that type of rocker became a life’s goal. Sam’s philosophy of furniture reflected mine. Furniture must be functional, built to last generations, and should be simple but beautiful. He said it clearly.
“I am passionate about my craft and the American Craft movement. For my work to be admired is one thing, but for my work to be used fulfills my purpose as a craftsman.” –Sam Maloof
But Sam didn’t share his design so I studied photos, watched videos and read all his books. But I couldn’t come up with a plan the caught the essence of his design. And seeing his building techniques was a little terrifying. So I looked kept looking.
Then I found a Virginia woodworker named Hal Taylor.
And he taught me how to build exquisite rocking chairs. Hal has built over 400 rocking chairs to date of his own design. It shares similarities with Sam’s but contains a multitude of innovations.
First and foremost, the chairs aren’t one size fits all; the designs are based on your height. The back braces, built from laminations of the rocker wood and ash, twist, turn and bend to conform to your unique shape. The seat isn’t just a flat board for you to plop onto. It is hand-carved and cradles your bottom comfortably, and is the right height, so your legs don’t dangle. Every design item has been examined and designed for you.
But what good is a chair if it looks like a rock? These are beautiful. Symmetrical and revealing the beauty of the hardwood. As you look at the examples below, remember that almost any domestic or imported hardwood can become a rocker and the centerpiece of your home.
Tiger Maple
Walnut
Cherry
Child's size
Three sizes L-M-S, based on height (XL and XXL available)
