Christian Yves Puibaraud

A native of Denmark, I grew up in a culture where fine furniture making has been a tradition for centuries. Denmark influenced furniture making on the international level in the 1940’s and 50’s with the timeless classic design of  Hans J. Wegner’s “The Chair” , Arne Jacobsen’s “The Swan Chair” and Finn Juhl’s “The Chief Chair”. These designs, characterized by their simple elegance and minimalistic style, are still being produced today and are sold all over the world.

After college, I decided to become a furniture maker because I have always had a great interest in woodworking.  I apprenticed at P.P.Møbler in Allerød, Denmark to learn the traditional ways of crafting fine furniture.  P.P.Møbler makes most of Hans J. Wegner’s furniture in addition to the furniture of other contemporary designers.  I was an apprentice for 4 years and stayed on to work there as a furniture maker an additional 3 years.  In 1995 I came to Hawaii and opened my own studio.  Then in 2000 Curtis Paddock and I opened our current woodshop where we make custom furniture and custom staircases.