Alan Horgan is a self-taught furniture designer-maker who runs his business, Alan Horgan Studio, in Conna, Co. Cork. The natural surroundings of the base in Blackwater Valley influence the composition of pieces, Alan Horgan Studio draws inspiration from nature and deploying creativity to transform some of the most beautiful natural materials into contemporary, timeless pieces.
The goal is to deliver beauty and luxury to your surroundings – be it a residential, commercial or retail space – through design-led pieces, handcrafted from the finest natural materials and made to last over generations.
A passion for design and natural materials – the core of Alan Horgan Studio’s ethos – coupled with skilled craftsmanship and an eye for detail, is fully embodied in work produced. Each piece is crafted to perfection, imbuing interiors with a luxury feel and elegant ambience.
What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?
No two days are the same. One day, I might be designing a new piece or making furniture or lighting, another is spent on-site with clients or having them visit me in the workshop.
What do you like most about your work?
I am grateful to have the freedom to express myself through my designs and to explore many various mediums in my day-to-day job, and I get great satisfaction after completing the more challenging projects I take on. Working with natural materials and creating objects of beauty that can be passed down onto the next generations is why I do what I do.
What do you like least about your work?
Paperwork is my least favourite part of the business.
What’s your favourite craft item in your home?
Victor Richardson’s painting. He has a very distinctive style, using elements of pointillism in his work. He seems to have the ability to transform what would normally appear as a plain scene into a vibrant image.
I am grateful to have the freedom to express myself through my designs and to explore many various mediums in my day-to-day job
Alan Horgan
Furniture Maker
What other maker in your discipline do you most look up to?
Eileen Gray was an extraordinary designer who influenced the furniture design and architecture disciplines of her time.
What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?
Be prepared to manage everything from design and making, to business planning, sales and marketing. If you don’t have all these skills, be sure to marry someone who does.
How do you start your day?
I start my day with a large cup of coffee in my hand. This kickstarts my creative thinking for the day.
What’s the first thing you do when you leave the studio?
As soon as I finish work I head for a hot shower.
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Alan Horgan Studio
Explore Alan’s full range of contemporary lighting, fine furniture and wall decor from this design-led boutique manufacturer.
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