La Fabrique Allwood: Material-Driven Furniture Production with a Sustainable Focus
La Fabrique Allwood is a furniture manufacturer based in Montreal, Canada. Since 2014, the company has designed and produced furniture made from solid urban wood and steel. It focuses on sustainability, material reuse, and durable craftsmanship. Designers in interior, furniture, and product fields may find the material approach particularly relevant.
Reused Urban Wood as a Core Material
La Fabrique Allwood works with ash wood sourced from urban trees. Many of these trees are removed due to infestations by the emerald ash borer. Instead of sending the wood to landfill, the company recovers it and turns it into new products. This method reduces waste and gives the trees a second life.
Because urban ash is a mature hardwood, it offers both strength and aesthetic value. As a result, it performs well in applications such as dining tables, counters, and shelving. The reclaimed material supports a more circular approach to furniture production.
Steel and Wood for Durability
In addition to wood, the company uses steel for key structural parts. Steel offers strength and stability, especially for table legs and frames. It is also fully recyclable. By combining steel with solid wood, La Fabrique Allwood creates long-lasting furniture that suits both commercial and residential spaces.
All pieces are made in the company’s Montreal workshop. This local production model ensures full control over quality and finish. It also allows for customisation, so clients can request specific sizes, finishes, or layouts based on their needs.
Zero-Waste Manufacturing
La Fabrique Allwood has developed a zero-waste production system. Each year, the team recycles more than 500 tonnes of material. Offcuts and leftover wood are reused or processed in environmentally responsible ways. This system supports a closed-loop production process and reduces the company’s environmental footprint.
In 2024, the company earned a Platinum Award and the People’s Choice Award at the Grands Prix du Design. These awards recognise its efforts to link responsible sourcing with high-quality design.
Supporting Sustainable Design Goals
Design professionals looking for sustainable materials may consider La Fabrique Allwood’s work as a practical example. The use of urban-sourced ash and recyclable steel demonstrates how familiar materials can support circular design. Furthermore, the company’s made-to-order approach helps reduce overproduction and waste.
Source: La Fabrique Allwood via V2com
Photos: Jeanne Castonguay / Ariane Larivière / Photographie Laurentides