Thorben Wuttke, founder of Honolulu Furniture Company

"When I create a piece of furniture, it is never simply about the finished product—whether it is a table, a bed frame, or anything in between. It is a process that demands respect, precision, and purpose. Each project begins with a deep appreciation for nature. I take in the scent of raw wood, observe the fine lines of the grain, and allow the material’s to guide the design.

Every piece begins with carefully selected, untreated wood—chosen for its strength, structure, and individuality. From the first cut to the final touch, I craft with discipline, attention to detail, and a commitment to traditional methods.

To commission a piece from my workshop is not simply to purchase furniture—it is to invest in an object of enduring value. It is a collaboration between your vision and my craftsmanship, resulting in a creation built to last and to be handed down through generations."

How I got into Woodworking:

I grew up in Germany, where students have the option to either continue with traditional high school or attend a trade school. At 16, I chose the trade school path, driven by a desire to work with my hands and learn a craft. After three years of training, I earned my journeyman’s degree and spent another year building furniture. I then took a four-year break from woodworking to explore other career opportunities—but the craft stayed with me. It wasn’t until I moved to Hawaii that I found my way back to it.

Woodworking in Hawaii:

In 2004, I moved to the Big Island of Hawaii, trading the gray skies of northern Germany for sunshine and warmer weather. I quickly fell in love with the lifestyle and the welcoming spirit of the people. I joined a canoe team, became a steersman, and learned to navigate life—and the ocean.

After four years, I relocated to Honolulu and began working with Re-use Hawaii. While helping set up their warehouse, I was also asked to build their check-out counters using reclaimed material. That’s when I rediscovered my passion for woodworking—especially the creativity and sustainability of working with reclaimed wood.

What began as a garage shop at my home on Wilhelmina Rise, soon grew into something more. In 2008, I officially launched my own woodworking business, moving into a corner of a large warehouse in Kalihi under the name Wuttke Werks. In 2011, after teaming up with my former business partner Doug Gordon, we rebranded as Honolulu Furniture Company. That same year, we opened our current workshop in Kakaʻako on Cummins Street—where the journey continues.

Contact

527 Cummins Street, Honolulu, 96814

+1 (808) 597-9193 (landline, no texts please)

thorben@honolulufurniturecompany.com

Mon- Fri   9am-4.30pm

Sat- Sun by appointment only