Where to start...well I am a firm believer in researching the objective, and in doing so I found the most incredible self-contained boxes as used by chemists and apothecaries in the Georgian era.

 

Inspiration was found, now to fit everything into a neat package. Mahogany was the obvious choice for construction, the purpose of the boxes are to be used in the 5 star Park Hotel Kenmare, opening its doors in 1897. Why mahogany also made the obvious choice not to mention the warm luscious tones of the wood but was the fact that the interior of the boxes was to be made from mahogany originally used in the hotel, need I say more!

 

In the process of design, we made three separate sample 'mock-up' boxes from ply, bringing the appearance and concept off the page and into life. Throughout this process each time presenting the latest and working with all relevant parties, tweaking and adjusting little touches until we had the perfectly suited self-contained tea & coffee box.

 

Next was to source and acquire the hard-wear, hinges, locking catch and handles. Quality solid British brass was the only choice, and in this mass produced world finding the right pieces was not easy, but something we achieved with a little patience. Making the box was the next challenge, hidden mitre joints, matching beautifully detailed grain pattern right across the box, cutting and fitting the many joints that all have to line up perfectly smooth, and believe me special attention was put into making sure they do. Little edge mouldings and fret cut details are a little detail to define the box, tying together beautifully with uniformity. Brass dome head slot screws were selected to complement the era of the hotel and each and every one is lined up parallel, a sign of true attention to detail. Custom designed Park Hotel Kenmare & Relais & Chateaux logoed badges were designed engraved.

 

All in all creating something very unique and special.