artists

every piece has a story, and every story begins with an artist

HELENSVILLE, AUCKLAND · DESIGNER & MAKER

Andrew Eccles - furnACE

Andrew Eccles is the designer and maker behind furnACE, a Helensville-based studio creating original wall art, homewares and gifts inspired by Aotearoa. Combining engineering precision with creative experimentation, Andrew transforms timber, acrylic, metal and other materials into contemporary pieces with genuine depth and character.

about

Andrew Eccles has always been a maker at heart.

Growing up in a family of artists, he developed an early appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship. His background in engineering, design, technical communication and photography added a practical understanding of how objects are conceived, constructed and refined.

Andrew’s natural curiosity has always led him to pull things apart, understand how they work and then build something of his own.

furnACE grew from this combination of creative and technical interests—and from Andrew’s frustration with supposedly New Zealand-inspired décor that was imported, generic or simply decorated with a familiar Kiwi symbol.

He wanted to create something different: original designs made locally from authentic materials, with real dimension and a meaningful connection to Aotearoa.

From his workshop in Helensville, northwest of Auckland, Andrew designs, cuts, assembles and finishes every piece himself. Nothing is mass-produced or sourced as imported stock, and the imagery used to present his work reflects the genuine finished pieces.

Andrew works across a broad range of materials rather than restricting himself to one medium. Depending on the design, a work may combine solid timber, plywood, acrylic, metal, resin or engraved elements.

This material freedom allows each idea to determine its own form. Natural grain, colour and small variations remain visible within the finished work, ensuring that no two handmade pieces are ever exactly alike.

Much of Andrew’s work is inspired by New Zealand—particularly its native birds and landscapes. Familiar subjects are reinterpreted through layered construction, contemporary design and considered material combinations, creating pieces that feel recognisably connected to this place without relying on convention.

Recent works have extended into larger wall pieces incorporating black galvanised corrugated metal and kwila frames. These works bring together detailed imagery, dimensional construction and materials with a rugged connection to New Zealand’s built and natural environments.

Andrew’s partner, Diane, works alongside him, assisting with assembly, markets and the development of new ideas. She also provides the invaluable second opinion when a design has not quite reached its final form.

Together, they have grown furnACE from a small workshop practice into a distinctive collection of locally designed and made objects.

Andrew’s work reflects the pleasure of making something properly—taking an idea through every stage until it becomes an object that is thoughtful, tangible and made to last.

Because a meaningful connection to New Zealand should run deeper than an image on the surface.

in the rooms

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