Hand Built Designs specializes in bespoke kitchens and occasional furniture. Each piece is custom designed and executed entirely in solid wood. The furniture is characterized by its simple clean lines and emphasis on practicality and functionality. These principles dictate the entire approach to each project be it a simple occasional piece or a complex design scheme. Hand Built Designs was established in 1998 by Mark Hand, a Fine Art Sculpture graduate with a background in Film & Television Art departments and prop making. Working on numerous period interior film sets in the U.K. ignited his interest in furniture and on returning to Ireland, after some time working with a master instrument maker, he started taking on furniture commissions. The company is based in a purpose built studio/workshop located by the shores of Lough Corrib, just twenty minutes north of Galway City.