Modern and contemporary are used interchangeably in most contexts—after all, even the dictionary lists them as synonyms—but when it comes to talking about furniture, architecture, and interior design, these two terms are not one and the same.

In most situations modern translates to “here and now”, but when discussing modern design and furniture, it is referring to various periods from the early to mid-twentieth century. Contemporary on the other hand is forever changing as it all about what is hot and trendy this decade.

Here is an easy way to remember the difference between modern and contemporary furniture: modern design will never change, while contemporary design is always being redefined.

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Last updated on July 17th, 2019 at 08:18 am

At Vermont Woods Studios, we certainly have a passion and appreciation for high quality craftsmanship and woodworking, but, the truth is, Peggy founded this business out of a passion for forest conservation.

It was this one astounding statistic that really lit a fire under her in 2005:

Every second, an acre of rainforest is lost forever

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Last updated on June 30th, 2019 at 10:38 am

Figured maple wood is one of the most common types of wood you’ll find in artisan and custom wood furniture, especially here in Vermont.

Some of the most common types of figuring found in natural maple wood are spalting, birdseye patterns, curling, ambrosia, and quilting. Tapped maple is also a common way for craftsmen infuse creativity and uniqueness into their furniture design.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the different kinds of figured maple and what gives each its distinguishing characteristics.

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