Phillip Keefe’s furniture is a delightful blend of traditional woodworking and whimsical design, reminiscent of creatures that might have crawled out of a Tim Burton film. The Chicago-based designer’s creations, inspired by spiders, crabs, and other creepy-crawly critters, are crafted with meticulous precision using techniques like hand-carving and intricate wood joinery.
Keefe’s journey into this unique style began with his beloved dog, Iggy. The playful pup often accompanied Keefe to his studio, providing endless inspiration and entertainment. Iggy’s enthusiastic nature and occasional mishaps with wood shavings served as a muse for Keefe, who transformed the dog’s legs into the foundation for a series of chairs and tables affectionately named after him.
The Arthropod collection, another standout piece, showcases Keefe’s innovative approach to woodworking. By experimenting with different wood joints, Keefe discovered a method that allowed furniture legs to attach to the sides of pieces rather than rest underneath. The resulting bookshelf, cabinet, and desk feature square skeletal frames and legs that appear poised for movement, as if they might scuttle across the room to greet you. Keefe’s furniture is not only visually striking but also a testament to his skill and creativity, transforming ordinary wood into extraordinary, lifelike creations.
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