Austin Heitzman

I craft timeless furniture that allows wood’s natural beauty to speak for itself. Many influences converged to make that happen —from my love of nature to growing up in Southeast Asia where I was first exposed to the art of bonsai.

My obsession with furniture was cultivated while working at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There I was exposed to many of the world’s greatest furniture masterpieces. Being able to examine these pieces in detail taught me how to craft heirloom furniture that can be passed down for generations. I strive to achieve this level of quality in every piece I build.

To perfect my craft I set out to furnish my home with pieces I could pass down to my children. I never quite finished that project, as the furniture orders started rolling in. I believe that a beautiful, well-made piece of furniture creates a link between you and nature, serving as a daily touchstone.

Through bonsai I explore the connection between nature and art. A great stand elevates any bonsai to a higher level and I am proud to have crafted stands for many award-winning trees. Bonsai taught me to utilize a board’s individual characteristics, especially defects, to suggest something greater than the material itself. I feel fortunate to be able to manifest what I value through my work—a deep appreciation of nature through authentic, well-made furniture.