The name holds both of us. “Atelier” is French for an artist’s workshop, reflecting Clémentine’s roots. “Gawa” is Tagalog for making or creation, reflecting Mark’s Filipino heritage. Together, they describe a workshop where ideas are explored and things are made with care.

In 2020, we bought our first house: a converted Victorian school, beautiful and far from standard. Nothing off the shelf quite fit, so we began making furniture suited to our home and the way we lived. Those first projects led to a deeper interest in furniture design and making, and eventually to Atelier Gawa.

Mark trained in fine furniture making at Williams & Cleal Furniture School in Somerset, following a career in urban design. Clémentine brings her experience in project management, contributes to the designs and keeps each project moving from the first conversation through to completion.

We develop each project with close attention to material, proportion, structure and detail. Making takes place in our Bristol workshop, combining hand skills with the tools appropriate to each task. We work closely with you to create furniture that serves its purpose, feels at home in its setting and is made for years of use.