
Cambrian Company
Cambrian Co. is a custom furniture and art studio located in Durham, NC. Each piece is designed and hand built by me, Ian Herdell, the artist and craftsman behind Cambrian Co. I specialize in residential and commercial furniture, built-ins, butsudans and artwork.
I am fascinated by the stories that trees can tell. Each piece of wood has a unique history, shaped by the natural world over its lifetime and then reoriented to a new purpose by the hands that work with it. I strive to forge a connection between nature and human intention, making something new and beautiful to share.
Trees tell me of soil, wind and water – of storms, insects and fungus – of passing seasons – of time on a slow scale. My work is inspired by the organic shapes and textures of trees and the stories they hold within. Each piece is handmade and represents a conversation, a back and forth I have with the tree’s tale and our shared human story. Both are old sagas and I feel privileged to add a few lines of my own
I enjoy spending time with each client as we explore their project. I listen and learn while also letting my experience guide us to a design that will fit comfortably into their life.
Please reach out to discuss your project!
Ian
Ron
Ron Z. My mentor and teacher who opened his shop and knowledge to me as I began fine woodworking.
Will Nash and his custom guitar
I shared a shop with Will for years where I witnessed his luthier artistry in action!
Ian with maple and eucalyptus side table
The artist sitting with his maple and eucalyptus side table.