Where the Investments of
the Future are Created
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By Sherry Kerr
Eday known as the Isthmus Isle is taken from the Old Norse "Eid-ey". It is eight miles in length, situated centrally among the North Isles of Orkney, 14 miles northeast of Kirkwall; Eday offers a unique blend of heather clad hilly moorland with panoramic views over sea and islands, sheer cliffs, long sweeping beaches and sand dunes. Most of the crofts and farms are located on the fertile coastal strip and it can be seen from the derelict croft houses that Eday's population of over 100 was once much greater. The creative and imaginative side is able to flourish in this tranquil setting. Since moving to the isle, they have established at Redbanks, Galleries – Gardens and more recently two exclusive Guest rooms, which include unique reclaimed sandstone showers. Driftwood and unusual stones collected from the shorelines of Eday are positioned around the gardens. This all gives inspiration and enthusiasm to the furniture creations – folk are often inspired to commission work, after staying in the Craftsmen created rooms! Visitors, which tour the Galleries, Gardens & workshop, where two Conservation items dominate the galleries – Death of the Mermaid Cabinet & The Gaian Press Cupboard – both made from 250 year old English solid yew – the latter took 6 months 12 hours every day to make. Both were created to show one mans appreciation for the planet he lives upon. Technical skills involved were intensive – The Gaian Press cupboard is one of the most difficult pieces of furniture ever made & even the finishing process was painstaking & lengthy to this Master Craftsman. When confronted by the Galleries visitors are amazed by the diversity contained within. The caliber of quality craftsmanship, realising the time and effort given over to the project and how long they themselves have taken to see this incredible place upon the island. Embracing the facilities of modern technology – for the purpose of revising their website, they have spent the last couple of months cataloguing pictures and images – these range from past commissions, which include: designs from the traditional oak furniture to Classical Rosewood through to individually bespoke made pieces from their own collection (which includes modern art sculptures and other art in wood). During January 2003, Colin started work upon his Eccentric Art Gallery project – consisting of various reclaimed & other unusual works. The collage can now be viewed upon the website (http://www.suigenerisfurniture.co.uk/teag.htm). Sui Generis Furniture provides for the individuals precise requirements and offers its clients a unique one to one experience, whether they require Design – Furniture – Bookbinding – Antique restoration etc. Sherry Kerr can be contacted by phone: 01857 622219 |
Sui Generis Furniture has been based on the Island of Eday, in the Orkney Islands for 13
years. Colin & Sherry Kerr moved to the property 'Redbanks' which
was a stone croft that had lain derelict for over 50 years.