Exciting News: Joseph Robinson Wins the Christopher Claxton Stevens Prize 2025!
Our very own Joseph Robinson, a graduate of our 50-week Designer Makers’ course, has won the Christopher Claxton Stevens Prize for his stunning Gratus Bench.
It’s also worth noting that Joseph’s win marks a historic achievement for robinson house studio, as this is the second consecutive year that one of our graduates has won the Christopher Claxton Stevens Prize.
This accolade reflects the exceptional quality of work produced by our students and the world-class education they receive here.
This prestigious award is presented annually by The Furniture Makers’ Company to the most outstanding piece that has been awarded a Bespoke Guild Mark in the previous year.
The award ceremony took place at the iconic Mansion House in London, with Joseph receiving the award from Rt Hon the Lord Mayor, Alderman Alastair King DL, and Debbie Johnson, Master of The Furniture Makers’ Company.
The Gratus Bench, crafted from quarter-sawn bog oak, is an exquisite example of Joseph’s talent, featuring a continuous laminated structure of 100 bog oak veneers. The bench’s design, which combines both natural materials and organic form, is finished with hand-worked bronze detailing, making it a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Named after the Latin word gratus (meaning “grace” and “gratitude”), the bench is meant to bring moments of stillness to transitional spaces.
Find out more about Joe’s award here: furnituremakers.org.uk/guild-mark-holder/gratus-bench/.
Ready to Start Your Own Journey? Enrol Now for September 2025!
Are you inspired by Joseph’s success and wondering if you too could become a top-tier furniture designer maker? Robinson House Studio has availability for new students to begin their journey this September 2025.
- We’re now accepting applications for our 50-week, Level 8 SQA-rated Furniture Design and Makers’ course, which starts on 20th April 2026. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with some experience in woodworking, our course is designed to help you reach your full potential.
- With a mix of traditional woodworking techniques and cutting-edge contemporary design, our Bespoke Guild Mark-level training offers you the chance to build a professional portfolio and create stunning, bespoke furniture pieces.
- If you’re ready to make your mark in the world of furniture design and making, we invite you to join us at ‘robinson house studio’ and gain the skills that will set you apart in the industry.
For more details or to apply, contact us at:
email admin@marfish.co.uk.
What Our Students Are Saying
We’ve been receiving some amazing feedback from our current and past students. Here’s what one of our graduates, Phil Berczuk, had to say about his time at Robinson House Studio:
“I recently completed the 50-week Furniture Design & Maker course at Robinson House Studio, which I thoroughly recommend.
Phil Berczuk
The course is incredibly comprehensive, covering everything from fine woodworking basics to advanced making techniques. All of this is expertly taught by Theo, Marc, Tor, and the entire team, who generously share their extensive knowledge and practical experience.
The school’s modern, well-equipped workshop is also used by Marc’s world-class team of makers, whose presence adds a real-world element that significantly enhances the value of the course for everyone involved.
What sets this course apart from others is its strong focus on design and business skills.
It was a fabulous and hugely rewarding experience that I would unreservedly recommend to anyone interested in furniture design and making. Are you ready to be part of our talented community?”
Get in Touch
If you have any questions or would like to find out more about the course, feel free to get in touch with us via email. We’re happy to guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
Contact Us:
Jo Howlett school administrator
email: admin@marfish.co.uk.
