Introduction
At Free Range Designs, we believe that furniture can do more than serve a practical purpose – it can inspire, uplift, and foster a love for learning. This philosophy has guided us in creating our custom, handcrafted lecterns, like the recently completed owl-themed lectern made for a local school. This piece combines functionality with artistry, providing a beautiful focal point for storytelling, reading sessions, and presentations in educational spaces. Here’s the story behind this special project and how it came to life in our workshop.
A Unique Request: An Owl-Inspired School Lectern
When we first received an email from Clare, a teacher at a local school, she shared her vision for a lectern that would be more than just a stand for books. The school had previously purchased a reading bench from us, and it had quickly become a beloved piece among students and teachers alike. Now, they wanted a matching lectern with an owl design – a piece that would embody wisdom, storytelling, and a connection to nature.
Owls are symbolic creatures often associated with wisdom, knowledge, and mystery – the perfect emblem for a school setting. We loved the idea and were excited to get started on a design that would bring these themes into their learning environment.
Crafting the Owl Lectern
Our team set to work sketching designs and considering the right type of wood that would complement the intricate details required for the owl carvings. As with all our products, we used sustainably sourced wood, bringing natural warmth and beauty to the piece.
Once the design was finalized, our craftsmen began shaping the lectern, carefully carving two owls onto the front panel. We paid attention to every feather, ensuring the owls looked lifelike and inviting. Each detail was carved by hand in our small workshop in Wales, far from the mass production lines of larger manufacturers. This personalized craftsmanship is what sets our furniture apart – it’s made with care, passion, and dedication.
Mobility and Practicality
To ensure the lectern could be moved around the school with ease, we added sturdy wheels to its base. This way, it can be quickly transported from classrooms to the library or even outdoors for story sessions on sunny days. The combination of mobility and stability means that it’s as practical as it is beautiful, catering to the dynamic needs of a school environment.
A Centerpiece for Learning
The completed owl lectern is now ready to inspire young minds, whether it’s holding a book during a storytime session, supporting a teacher’s notes during a presentation, or standing as a proud focal point in the school library. We hope this piece will encourage children to gather, listen, and embark on countless adventures through stories.
More than Furniture: Creating Lasting Memories
We understand that pieces like this become more than just furniture. They’re part of the school’s atmosphere, contributing to a learning environment that fosters curiosity, wonder, and a love of reading. We’re thrilled to know this lectern will be a part of the students’ memories – a piece they’ll remember as they grow and learn.
Conclusion: Crafting with Purpose
At Free Range Designs, we’re proud to create custom furniture that goes beyond functionality. Each piece tells its own story, just as this owl lectern does, bringing warmth, inspiration, and joy to the spaces it occupies. We look forward to crafting more pieces like this and bringing the magic of storytelling to schools, libraries, and community spaces everywhere.
If you’re interested in a custom lectern, reading bench, or any other piece of storytelling furniture, reach out to us. Let’s work together to create something truly special for your school or community.
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