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Benches are a beautiful blend of form and function - perfect for entryways, dining tables, the end of your bed, or even as a statement piece in a hallway. But with so many options, how do you pick the right one?

Here’s a quick guide to help you find your perfect bench:

1. Start with the Purpose

Is your bench for seating, display, or storage?

• Dining benches should be the same height as your chairs (around 44cm) and long enough to comfortably seat two or more people.
  
• Bedroom benches at the foot of your bed can offer a place to perch or layer with throws.
• Hallway or entryway benches might benefit from added storage for shoes or baskets underneath.

ARVID: Reclaimed Wood Storage Bench 

2. Measure Your Space

Always measure before buying! You’ll want at least 30cm of clearance around your bench to avoid a cramped look. For dining areas, consider the full footprint with people seated - don’t forget legroom.

3. Match Your Style

Your bench should feel like it belongs.

• For a minimalist look, go with clean lines and light wood. Our RAVI bench with Mitre joint is seamless. 

 

• Love industrial style? Choose something with raw steel hairpin legs, like MARKUS hairpin bench. 

 

 

• Craving a rustic vibe outdoors? Our PAN Garden Bench With Galvanised Hairpins, made from reclaimed wood and finished with natural oil-wax, adds instant warmth and character to any patio or green space. These benches are suitable for use on patios and outdoors. Built with gaps between the boards for drainage and treated with several coats of outdoor oil. The legs are galvanised with zinc to prohibit rusting. 

 

4. Don’t Forget Customisation

Every home is different. That’s why we offer custom sizes, leg styles, and finishes - so your bench works perfectly for your space and your style.

We offer 10 different bench sizes to suit every space, whether you're after a compact hallway perch or a full-length dining bench. 

Choose from three distinct metal leg styles - V-frame, Trapezium, or X-frame - each bringing its own character and stability. If you're drawn to hairpin legs, we’ve got you covered with 14 unique colour finishes, from classic black to bold bright, so you can truly make your bench your own.

Looking for your own one-of-a-kind bench?
Browse our ready-made designs or get in touch to customise one just for you.

 

5. Not all our benches are called benches

Not everything we make is officially called a “bench” - but many of our pieces still offer a practical and stylish seating solution. 

Take our wooden hallway seating, for example: they double as both a storage and sitting spot. Perfect for putting on shoes, resting bags, or adding warmth to a narrow space, these versatile designs bring all the charm of a bench with added function, especially in busy entryways.

LUIS: Wooden Hallway Seating, with Turned Legs and a Customisable Finish

 

Whether you're furnishing a cosy corner or upgrading your dining space, the right bench can transform both the look and feel of your home - especially when it’s crafted to fit you perfectly.

 

At Riz and Mica Make, reclaimed wood isn’t just our material of choice - it’s part of our story. But what exactly is reclaimed wood, and why has it become such a favourite among home stylists and conscious consumers?

What is Reclaimed Wood?

Reclaimed wood is timber that’s been salvaged from old buildings, barns, factories, and even boats - given a second life instead of ending up in landfill. It’s often decades old, full of character, and typically much stronger than new, fast-grown wood used today.

Each board tells a story - you might spot original nail holes, saw marks, or colour variations from its former life. These aren’t flaws - they’re features.

Why Choose Reclaimed?

• Sustainability
  Using reclaimed wood reduces the demand for new logging and minimises waste. It’s an eco-friendly way to furnish your home without compromising on style.

Sanded Board Offcuts, Perfect for DIY- Shelves, Panelling Etc.

• Unique Character
  Unlike mass-produced furniture, no two pieces of reclaimed wood are the same. You get something that’s truly one-of-a-kind, with textures and tones you just can’t fake.

DYLAN: Bedside Unit with Drawer, Reclaimed Boards

 

RAVI: Reclaimed Solid Wood Bench with Mitre Join

• Strength & Durability
  Older wood is often denser and more stable, having had years to dry and settle. This makes it a solid choice for furniture that’s made to last.

Busting the Myths

“Is reclaimed wood safe or clean?”
Absolutely. We carefully select and treat every piece to ensure it’s safe for use in your home - finished with natural oil waxes to protect and enhance its beauty.

 

“Is it too rustic for my home?”
Not at all. Paired with modern features like sleek hairpin legs or minimalist designs, reclaimed wood works in everything from boho to industrial to Scandi-inspired spaces.

MANU: Wood Stool / Side Table

 

CHISHOLM: Reclaimed Dining Table with Black Trapezium Legs

Reclaimed, Refined, and Ready for You

Choosing reclaimed wood is about more than just furniture – it’s about making sustainable, soulful choices for your space. Whether it’s a hallway bench, a dining table, or a custom shelf, you’ll feel the difference with a Riz and Mica piece.

KIRB: Reclaimed Wood Hallway Storage Unit Coat Rack

 

TIBBLE: Plant Stands

Don't forget to tag us and follow us on Instagram.

We're pleased to announce our new packaging designs that we've created in collaboration with a diverse range of exceptional illustrators/artists, boxes that tell powerful stories. We've requested that the artists involved respond to both our sustainability ethics and our company's long-standing support for civil and social rights. Plants with significance for protest movements have been lovingly depicted on our gorgeous new packaging along with text descriptions.

We've worked with wonderful artists and groups including Sophie Hoyle and Elven Wings.

 

 

The packaging becomes a canvas for meaningful depictions of plants and flowers that hold significance in various protest movements.

 

Rose (genus Rosa)

In a discursive process with the artists plants and designs were suggested back and forth and we came to an eventual agreement on a range of different layouts. These included both line drawings of the plants involved at different stages in their lives (seeds, germination, fertilisation etc.) and handwritten pieces of text describing their significance.

 

Printing

Once the designs were finalised we sent the files off to the printers. The test print run can be seen in action here:

 

 We are beyond excited to receive our new packaging and customers can expect to receive the new designs starting from early Spring 2024.

 

Beyond Packaging: Cultivating Change

This collaborative project goes beyond just aesthetics. It's also a statement that what we purchase, its provenance and its impact on the world are as important as its use. By bringing together art, nature, and activism, we're hoping to set a precedent for more conscious consumption.

As ourfurniture is opened, you'll not only receive a beautifully crafted piece but also a hand-drawn piece of artwork that shows profound solidarity with movements for justice and equality.

This Mother's Day, we want to quickly shine a light on a truly exceptional member of our team: Feime has been with us for years now, bringing constant dedication to her work in the workshop. Whether it's finishing, packing, sanding, or anything else she excels in every task with efficiency and precision.

Background
As a mother of two girls, aged 10 and 12, she's committed and able to meet all the demands of parenthood with love. It's inspiring to see the level of care she puts into both her work and her children. She dreams of one day returning to Kosovo to create a new chapter once her children are grown.

Beyond her responsibilities, Feime finds joy in dancing, especially to Albanian music. She's is a joy to have in the team.

Feime is a role model of strength, resilience, and dedication. This Mother's Day, let's take a moment to appreciate her for the remarkable woman she is.

Happy Mother's Day! ⭐

And from all the team at RizandMicaMake we wish all of the mothers out there the very best x

In the heart of East London, amidst the bustling streets and vibrant communities, sits our workshop. Amidst the clatter of tools and the hum of machinery, Mica Fiedler and Rizwan Aswat have forged a haven for sustainable furniture making. Mica, the co-founder of Riz & Mica Make, is an entrepreneur on a mission to redefine furniture, one reclaimed piece at a time.

Introduction

 After embarking on the journey of parenthood, Mica then chose to channel her creative talents into a family business, and Riz & Mica Make was born. Nestled within our East London workshop, our team breathe new life into reclaimed materials, crafting bespoke furniture pieces that resonate with character and sustainability. In a field traditionally dominated by men, we've sought to redress that balance through our hiring policies.

Getting a Degree

Hailing from Austria, Mica's journey to reclaimed furniture began after initially working as a makeup artist for many years. “Not having a design degree was always in the back of my mind,” admits Mica. “All my peers come from university and have their degrees. It was always something I wanted to do.”

Starting a Design & Innovation degree in 2019 was the next logical step, it's led to a great many transformations and projects, and the company as a whole has benefitted. 

Work and Family Life

 Balancing the triple demands of business, family, and academia is no small feat, yet Mica navigates these with determination. As a devoted mother and student, she carves out time each weekend to pursue her studies, all while managing the day-to-day operations of the company. 

“I have a very good tight schedule. We have a planner at home with ‘Mommy Day’ and ‘Daddy Day’, along with ‘Mommy’s study day’. We try and juggle everything and it is hard sometimes, but you have to be strict.

“You also have to find out what kind of study type you are. I thought I could study in the morning, get up at 5am, and study for two hours. That didn’t work at all. Now I know that I have to study on the weekend and how many hours I have to study to pass my assignments. It takes time to figure out what works for you.”

Eventual Goals

 Looking towards the future, Mica envisions bringing more diversity and collaboration. With a desire to bring more women into the fold. The next big project she's heading is to collaborate with locally-based street artists to create bespoke one off pieces.

International Women's Day

As International Women's Day comes around, we'd like to honour women like Mica, whose dedication inspires us to build a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

In an era where environmental consciousness is at the forefront of our minds, the choices we make in furnishing our homes play a crucial role in reducing our ecological footprint. One sustainable option that has gained popularity is the use of reclaimed wood for furniture, especially in items like reclaimed wood dining tables and chairs (reclaimed wood dining room sets) and other home furnishings. In this post, we'll explore the numerous reasons why opting for reclaimed furniture is not only a stylish choice but also a responsible one for the planet.

1. Preserving Earth's Resources

The production of new furniture often involves the extraction of virgin timber, contributing to deforestation and habitat destruction. Reclaimed wood, on the other hand, comes from salvaged materials, reducing the demand for fresh lumber and helping preserve our forests.

2. Reducing Carbon Footprint

The process of harvesting and manufacturing new wood furniture releases a significant amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Reclaimed wood, however, requires minimal processing and transportation, resulting in a substantially lower carbon footprint. By choosing reclaimed wood dining chairs or a reclaimed wood desk, you're making a positive impact on the environment.

3. Storytelling and Character

Reclaimed furniture carries a rich history and unique character. Each piece tells a story, having witnessed the passage of time and often showcasing the marks of its previous life. This not only adds charm to your home but this emotional connection reduces the need for new materials and the associated environmental impact, you look after furniture that you care about.

4. Versatility in Design

Reclaimed wood can be crafted into a wide variety of furniture, including reclaimed dining stool, reclaimed tables and chairs, and reclaimed wood kitchen tables and chairs. Its versatility allows for diverse and stylish designs, catering to different tastes and preferences. This adaptability reduces the need for constant production of new materials to meet changing design trends.

5. Eco-friendly Finishes

Choosing reclaimed furniture doesn't just stop at the wood itself. Manufacturers can use environmentally friendly finishes and adhesives, further reducing the overall ecological impact of the furniture. This commitment to sustainability extends the positive influence of reclaimed wood furniture beyond the material itself.

6. Minimal Waste Generation

The production of new furniture often generates a significant amount of waste, including offcuts and discarded pieces. Reclaimed wood, sourced from salvaged materials, minimises waste generation and promotes a more efficient use of resources. Waste material such as wood savings or offcuts can be sold on for other uses at home or in industry.

7. Longevity and Durability

Reclaimed wood is quality solid wood that has stood the test of time. Choosing reclaimed dining chairs, reclaimed tables and chairs, or reclaimed wood decor means investing in durable pieces that are built to last. This longevity contributes to the reduction of furniture turnover, minimizing the need for constant replacements and further decreasing environmental impact.

Conclusion:

As consumers become increasingly mindful of their ecological impact, the demand for sustainable furniture options such as reclaimed wood dining tables continues to rise. By opting for reclaimed furniture, you're not only making a style statement but also contributing to the well-being of our planet. Embrace the beauty, history, and sustainability of reclaimed wood furniture – a choice that resonates with both your home and the Earth.

Trees are an integral part of our environment and play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of nature. They provide numerous benefits, including clean air, shade, and habitat for wildlife, just to name a few. With the increasing demand for urbanization and industrialization, however, we are rapidly losing our green spaces and trees. This is why it is more important than ever to consider tree planting in our communities.

The Benefits of Tree Planting Clean Air:

Trees play a vital role in purifying the air by removing carbon dioxide and other pollutants. This helps to improve air quality and reduce the impact of air pollution on our health.

Climate Control: Trees can help to regulate the local climate by providing shade and cooling the surrounding area. They can also help to reduce the urban heat island effect, which is a phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than rural areas.

Habitat for Wildlife: Trees provide a habitat for numerous species of wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. This helps to maintain the biodiversity of our ecosystem and ensures that wildlife continues to thrive.

Aesthetic Value: Trees can add a great deal of aesthetic value to our communities. They can provide visual interest and enhance the beauty of the surrounding area.

Increased Property Values: Studies have shown that homes with mature trees have a higher property value than homes without trees. This is because trees are perceived as adding value and beauty to the area.

Why Every Community Should Consider Tree Planting

Tree planting is a simple and effective way to help our environment and improve the quality of life in our communities. By planting trees, we can help to reduce the impact of urbanization and industrialization on our environment, protect wildlife, and improve air quality. In addition, tree planting can also help to enhance the aesthetic appeal of our communities, which can help to attract more residents and businesses to the area.

In conclusion, tree planting is an important and valuable investment that every community should consider. By planting trees, we can help to improve the environment and the quality of life in our communities. So, let's all do our part and start planting trees today!

 

When it comes to investing in reclaimed wood furniture, it’s important to understand the proper care and maintenance required to keep it looking beautiful for years to come. Reclaimed wood, also known as recycled wood, has been salvaged from old buildings, bridges, and other structures. It is then repurposed and transformed into unique and beautiful furniture pieces.

 

One of the benefits of reclaimed wood furniture is that it is often more durable and long-lasting than new wood furniture. However, it proper care helps maintain its natural beauty and extend its life. Here are a few tips on how to care for your reclaimed wood furniture:

Cleaning Use a mild detergent or wood cleaner to gently clean the surface of your reclaimed wood furniture. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers as they can damage the surface.

Protecting Use coasters and placemats to protect your reclaimed wood furniture from scratches and dings. This will also help to prevent any damage from spills or moisture.

Polishing To maintain the natural shine and luster of the reclaimed wood, use a natural oil or wax to polish the surface. This will help to nourish the wood and protect it from moisture.

Humidity Reclaimed wood furniture should be kept in a stable environment with moderate humidity levels. Avoid placing your reclaimed wood furniture in damp or humid areas, as this can cause the wood to warp or crack.

Sunlight Direct sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of reclaimed wood over time. Try to keep your reclaimed wood furniture out of direct sunlight or use window treatments to filter the light.

By following these simple care tips, you can enjoy your reclaimed wood furniture for years to come. The natural character and beauty of reclaimed wood furniture are truly unique and worth preserving. Not only that, but it is also an environmentally responsible choice, as it reduces the need for new wood, therefore reducing deforestation and emissions.

As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, more and more people are looking for ways to make their homes sustainable. One of the most effective ways to do this is by incorporating reclaimed furniture into your home decor.

Reclaimed furniture is made from reclaimed materials, such as old buildings, building materials, boats, and even wine barrels. This not only reduces the demand for new materials but also gives these materials a new life. Reclaimed wood furniture, in particular, has a unique character and patina that can add warmth and personality to any room. Not only that, but reclaimed wood is often more durable and stable than new wood, making it a great choice for high-use items like tables and chairs.

Incorporating reclaimed furniture into your home decor is a great way to give new life to old materials and reduce the demand for new resources. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it also adds character and charm. Instead of buying new furniture, you get something unique. When choosing reclaimed furniture, look for pieces that are well-made and have a good finish. Avoid pieces that are too damaged or have significant structural issues.

Reclaimed furniture is not only an environmentally friendly option but also an affordable one. Many reclaimed furniture pieces are unique and one-of-a-kind, making them a great conversation starters. They also tend to be more durable and long-lasting than new furniture. This makes them a smart investment.

Reclaimed furniture has also been suggested to have a positive impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Being surrounded by natural materials such as  wood has been found to lower stress levels and promote a sense of calm. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that can make your home feel more comfortable.

When it comes to styling reclaimed furniture in your home, the options are endless. You can mix and match reclaimed pieces with new furniture to create a unique and stylish look. You can also use reclaimed furniture in unexpected ways, such as using reclaimed wood for a headboard or using a reclaimed door as a coffee table.

Here at Riz and Mica Make, we are proud to offer a wide selection of reclaimed furniture pieces to help you create a sustainable and stylish home. One of our featured products is the "Rustic Reclaimed Wood Dressing Table." This stunning table is made from reclaimed wood and features a unique and rustic design that will add character to any beauty or bedroom. It is also made with durability in mind, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

In conclusion, incorporating reclaimed furniture into your home decor is a great way to give new life to old materials and reduce the demand for new resources. Not only is it environmentally friendly, but it also adds character and to your home. It's an affordable and smart investment that can have a positive impact on both your home and your well-being. At Riz and Mica Make, we are dedicated to providing high-quality reclaimed furniture that will help you create a sustainable and stylish space.

What is Reclaimed Wood?

Reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings, fences, or other sources. It is then recycled and repurposed into new products, such as furniture, flooring, or decorative items. If you're in the market for new furniture, you may be considering your options for eco-friendly and sustainable pieces. Reclaimed wood furniture is a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact and add a touch of uniqueness to their home decor

 

Here are 5 reasons to choose reclaimed wood furniture:

1. It's good for the environment: Using reclaimed wood helps reduce the demand for new wood, which requires energy-intensive processes such as logging and transportation. Deforestation and other harmful practices can also be a concern with new wood, but reclaimed wood is already in use and has a smaller environmental impact. By choosing reclaimed wood furniture, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
2. It has a unique character: Each piece of reclaimed wood has its own unique characteristics, such as knots, grain patterns, and color variations. This is due to the wood's age and history, which gives it a distinctive look and feel. No two boards of reclaimed wood are exactly alike, making for a truly one-of-a-kind piece. 
   
3. It's durable: Reclaimed wood has already been used for decades or even centuries, so it has been tested for durability. This makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas or for those looking for long-lasting pieces. Reclaimed wood is also often more stable than new wood, as it has already undergone the process of drying and shrinking.
4. It adds a rustic touch: Reclaimed wood has a rustic, natural look that can add warmth and character to any space. It can give a room a sense of history and authenticity and can be a great way to add a unique touch to your decor. Whether you're going for a modern or traditional look, reclaimed wood can add a touch of charm.
5. It supports small businesses: Many reclaimed wood furniture companies are small businesses that are committed to sustainability and ethical practices. By choosing reclaimed wood furniture, you can support these businesses and help make a positive impact on the economy. Small businesses often put more care and attention into their products, and purchasing from them can be a rewarding experience.

There are many good reasons to choose reclaimed wood furniture for your home.

In conclusion, reclaimed wood furniture is a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact and add unique, durable, and rustic pieces to their home decor. From supporting small businesses to adding a touch of charm to your space, there are many benefits to choosing reclaimed wood. If you're interested in adding a reclaimed wood piece to your home, be sure to check out our box steel dining table – a beautiful, handmade reclaimed wood dining table that is sure to make a statement in any room.

Thanks for considering reclaimed wood furniture and making a positive impact on the environment.

Christmas can be a stressful time, not only for people but for the planet, below we've listed some of our top tips for re-considering the festive period in a better way, environmentally, financially and ethically.

Black Friday runs counter to our aims and ideals as a team, it's incompatible with our idea of buying less and buying well. As a marketing exercise it's been historically effective at whipping people up into a frenzy of purchases that often they don't need or they can't afford, luckily the 'holiday' seems to be waning in its influence.