Zach Burandt: Crafting Timeless Furniture in Alabama
Zach Burandt, the talent behind Chisel & Wood, is bringing a refined eye and serious skill to the Alabama furniture scene. Nestled near Lake Martin, his woodworking studio is where he thoughtfully crafts pieces designed to become cherished parts of your home. Chisel & Wood, born from a journey of self-discovery, is a standout in Southern design. We caught up with Zach to discuss his inspiring work.
From Lost to Woodshop: The Beginning
"Woodworking grabbed me, I didn't grab it," Zach explains about his journey. During a transitional period, he found himself in Northern California, helping a woodworker. "A few hours in his shop turned into a few days, which turned into not wanting to leave." A friend's suggestion to start a business sparked an idea. Zach realized he possessed the necessary skills and, with minimal overhead, launched Chisel & Wood. Starting with cutting boards and moving to furniture, Zach's passion ignited with the sale of his first walnut coffee table. This led him back to school and eventually to building his Lake Martin studio.
The Krenov School Influence
Zach's time at the Krenov School of Fine Woodworking transformed his approach. "The school helped expose me to the depth of the craft, both practically and philosophically." He learned to see wood as "a story to be told" rather than just a material. His philosophy became: "if it means something to me, it will mean something to someone else." Each piece becomes a collaboration between artist and client.
Furniture as Storytelling
For Zach, furniture tells the tree's story. "Our furniture is made of wood, and that wood came from a tree, and that tree lived a life." He emphasizes the hidden stories within the wood's grain – the droughts, seasons of abundance, and challenges the tree endured. By using wood from the same tree, he aims to convey its complete story. "The story has actually already been written; I just get to tell it."
Design Philosophy
Zach's design philosophy reflects his values: simplicity, excellence, and creativity. He's drawn to minimalistic styles like Scandinavian and mid-century modern. James Krenov and George Nakashima are major influences, not only for their craftsmanship but also for their wisdom and depth.
Sourcing Lumber: A Thoughtful Process
"The selection of wood is easily the most important part of a woodworker’s process," Zach believes. He seeks wood that has been carefully milled and dried. A road trip to a family-run sawmill in Pennsylvania led him to a source that shares his dedication. He's even milling walnut trees himself, allowing them to naturally relax over time. "If you take care of it, it’ll take care of you."
The Importance of Hand Craftsmanship
Hand craftsmanship is key to Zach's work. "When someone makes something with their hands and puts themselves into the work, there is usually a deep, but subtle, sense of dignity they experience in their spirit." He values the imperfections and humanity that hand tools bring, contrasting with the sterile perfection of machines.
A Meaningful Piece
The first dining table built in his new shop holds special significance. A six-foot round table made of solid walnut, it took 150 hours to create. It represents the entirety of the tree, both above and below ground, designed for enjoyment from every angle.
Alabama's Influence
Living and working in Alabama has deepened Zach's connection to nature. His woodland studio near Lake Martin provides daily inspiration. "As someone who enjoys nature and solitude, I feel like this little piece of earth was tailor-made for me, so it’s been enjoyable to take care of."
Courtesy of SoulGrown Alabama
