Who is Ethnicraft and what is the brand's history?
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Ethnicraft is a Belgian brand founded in 1995 in Antwerp by Benoit Loos and Philippe Delaisse. Originally specialising in reclaimed teak furniture imported from Indonesia, it has gradually broadened its range to include solid oak, walnut and complementary materials (ceramic, metal). Ethnicraft's DNA comes down to two things: solid wood and artisanal craftsmanship. Every piece is made in the brand's workshops in Belgium and Indonesia using traditional joinery skills. The brand favours fine timbers: FSC-certified European oak, American walnut and reclaimed teak (repurposed from antique furniture). Finishes are natural oil or wax, never thick paint. Ethnicraft has won several awards (Red Dot Award, Wallpaper Design Awards) and collaborates with international designers. Now present in more than 75 countries, the brand has opened flagship stores in Antwerp, New York and Tokyo. The Cool Republic distributes Ethnicraft in France with fast delivery from our warehouses.
What are Ethnicraft's iconic pieces?
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Several Ethnicraft designs have become classics. The Bok dining table (solid oak, timeless design) is arguably the best known, available in several sizes (140 to 300 cm). The Bok and N1 chairs (natural leather or fabric seats) are often paired with this table. The N701 sofa (aged leather, oak frame) has become a contemporary living-room classic. The Ligna bookcase and Wave shelving units help structure living spaces. When it comes to coffee tables, the Bok collection and the new Mosaic (marquetry top) are bestsellers. For bedrooms, the U bed and Mado chests of drawers are in high demand. The brand also produces consoles, desks, wardrobes and accessories. Ethnicraft's hallmark: every piece reveals the natural grain of the wood, with variations that make each one unique. The wood is oiled to bring out its depth and preserve its nuances. No paint, no veneer. This honest-materials philosophy guarantees exceptional longevity (50 years or more for an oak dining table).
Is Ethnicraft wood really durable?
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Yes, it's one of the brand's main strengths. The European oak used by Ethnicraft is FSC-certified (sustainable forest management). Pieces are assembled using mortise-and-tenon joints or dowels (traditional joinery techniques), not screws or staples. The natural oil finishes (linseed or tung oil) penetrate the wood rather than forming a surface layer, allowing the wood to breathe and age naturally. If you get a light scratch, you can easily treat it locally with a little oil. For knocks or more noticeable marks, light sanding and a fresh coat of oil will restore an almost-new appearance. Maintenance is simple: oil once a year at first (for the first 2-3 years), then every 2-3 years thereafter; clean with a soft damp cloth and avoid chemical detergents. An Ethnicraft dining table bought in 2010 will still be in perfect condition in 2050, or even 2070, with a patina that only grows richer over time. It's a genuine long-term investment, one you can pass down to future generations.
How much does Ethnicraft furniture cost?
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Ethnicraft sits at the premium end of Scandinavian-Belgian furniture. Prices reflect the use of fine solid woods and artisanal manufacturing in Europe and Indonesia. For a Bok or N1 chair, expect to pay 350-550 euros depending on the finish. The Bok dining table ranges from 1,500 euros (140 cm) to 4,500 euros (300 cm). The N701 sofa (2- or 3-seater) comes in at around 3,500-6,500 euros depending on size and leather finish. Ligna bookcases sell for 1,500-3,500 euros. Coffee tables come in at around 800-2,000 euros. Chests of drawers and bedroom furniture range from 1,500 to 4,000 euros. That's more expensive than IKEA or entry- to mid-range brands (Bloomingville, HKliving), but less than Vitra or Cassina pieces. Value for money is excellent given the longevity (50 years or more) and the resale value on the second-hand market (Selency, Mubawab pro). Make the most of the two official sale periods each year and outlet sales for discounts of 20-30% on selected models. At The Cool Republic, you'll find the complete Ethnicraft catalogue with fast delivery across France.