About

Meet the Maker

Born in Toronto, Canada, Declan Birkenheier is a woodworker, designer and professional craftsman. Having grown up on a sail boat while travelling the world, Declan now runs DCB Design Studio, based out of his home workshop in the GTA. His unique experience of living at sea in close quarters fuelled a desire to enhance the spaces within smaller dwellings. Focussed on patternmaking, Declan's work is a reflection of this inspiration and challenges the lines between adornment and utilitarianism.

A Passion for Precision

Declan's designs consist of non traditional forms that are connected to their use and function. Meant to be seen but not heard, he creates pieces that have a subtle elegance, using the natural designs found in wood to enhance his own vision.

Declan has a particular interest for the variety of patterns and colours that different species of wood offer. Inspired by the repetition of wood’s grain and stability of the medium, his pieces are a reflection and exploration of natural patterns and colours found in wood. The wood speaks for itself; Declan's designs merely amplifies its voice. 

Repurposing Old Wood

Many of the works by DCB Design Studio are made out of wood that was otherwise destined for landfill. Using experience in wood turning and laminations, this salvaged material is rebuilt into usable pieces, often with intricate patterns and designs. Through this philosophy, DCB Design Studio are able to create one-of-a-kind cutting boards and accessories that are not only unique but tell a story.