In The Studio: Made by The Forge

The brains and brawn behind our exclusive industrial lighting collection, Made By The Forge combine modern, industrial style with the traditional craft of blacksmithing.

Curious to learn more, we spoke to blacksmith Richard Fishenden about the ancient crafts and skills that go into each piece.

Where is your workshop based?

Made by the Forge is based in the small Suffolk village of Elmsett. We rent our space from a farmer who decided to turn his former pig farm into workshops and studios, so it certainly has that traditional craft feel.

How did the collaboration with Anthony Dickens come about?

Our relationship sprang from a special collaboration for Made by The Forge between Anthony, William Warren, Chris Eckersley and Gareth Neal, which was exhibited at last year’s Design Junction. We loved his work, so it was a no-brainer to collaborate on a full collection with him.

How long did the collection take to design and craft?

From the initial concept to the finished pieces, the collection for Heal’s took roughly seven months to complete. While the range is based on Anthony’s clever interpretation of the popular cage light, it was Richard Fishenden’s blacksmithing skills that really brought the designs to life.

Where does MBTF’s blacksmithing heritage hail from?

Richard comes from a family of Blacksmiths whose time-honoured skills have been passed down through the generations. Having first trained as a farrier, shoeing horses on an apprenticeship, he now has over 20 years’ experience working with solid iron combining his artisan blacksmith skills with a modern approach to interiors.

Tell us more about your exclusive designs for Heal’s

These designs are all part of The Farrier's Cage Collection, each of which has been traditionally hammered and welded from solid iron to create a modern, industrially inspired series of pendants. It’s hard to choose a favourite with designs including the Multi-Bulb, Long bar and six circle Globe Chandelier, but we have to admit that the Teardrop really does steal the show.

What next for MBTF?

Following the success of the Farrier’s Cage collection, we are once again working with Anthony Dickens on some exciting new modern lighting designs. We are also planning a collaboration with Sebastian Cox and Anthony to design a table that combines both natural wood and our solid metal crafts. They’re set to launch later this year exclusively at Heal's, so watch this space!

Want to see the exclusive collection of Heal’s Farrier’s Cage pendants Made By The Forge? Shop Now

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