Pfitzner Furniture

There’s furniture stores and then there’s Pfitzner Furniture. We spoke to owners Andrew and David Pfitzner to get the low down on life in the furniture making business…

 

What is Pfitzner Furniture well known for and what makes you unique?

We are known for our quality and finish, and for being one of the best solid timber furniture manufacturers in Australia. We source our timber from Tasmania and Victoria, and use all other materials from local suppliers.

 

How you became a furniture maker?

From the time that we used to clean Dad’s workshop (where Pfitzner Furniture was located in 1972) for pocket money, to hammering in nails and sawing off cuts, it was always something that we enjoyed doing, and so – here we are!

 

What would you say are your main influences when creating a piece of work?

We are influenced by practical and functional design. We work with the client to design a display, bookshelf or entertainment cabinet to meet their needs. There are also trends in colours, timber and paint finishes, but importantly we ensure that what we are designing is suitable for the space. 

 

Can you describe how a piece of furniture (like a table) is designed?

Firstly, we will sketch up the design, and then create a prototype model and which is discussed with the team. We look at ways to improve the construction design and consider any changes to be made. Modifications are made and production commences.

If it’s a commissioned piece, the client will be given a 3D scaled drawing for final approval. We encourage our customers to visit our factory in the Adelaide Hills once the top has been cut, to view the timber grain, before it gets glued together.

 

What is your best seller?

Our best-selling pieces are from the Chess Bedroom Range which includes bedside tables, a tallboy and the high bed. It’s a unique and beautiful range and clients love the simplicity and finish, plus the soft close drawers are a winner.

 

Why do you think you have been successful?

We have a willingness to develop new designs and to work with clients to find exactly what they want. Our products are well made and last for generations.

 

What inspires you to keep making beautiful furniture?

The inspiration is the client’s satisfaction of the finished product. Creating new designs and seeing them in our clients’ home is very rewarding.

 

What do you enjoy doing apart from designing and making furniture?

Visiting one of the many beautiful winery / cellar doors here in SA and showing off our beautiful Adelaide Hills to friends and family.

 

And you are located on The Parade – what is the best thing about your location?

We have a very diverse customer base, with people from the country, hills, as well as interstate clients, so The Parade is perfectly central and also offers a range of other experiences for the customer.