Paris-based woodturner and cabinetmaker François le Xuan has been exploring a rare, precise and deeply sensory craft for several years. Trained at the La Bonne Graine retraining school, then at the Escoulen school, he develops a singular language, between traditional know-how and formal research.
It was when he discovered the possibilities of woodturning that he found his calling: an ancient technique that involves turning wood to shape it with cutting tools. Through this circular gesture, François creates utilitarian or decorative objects - lamps, stools, furniture - but also unique pieces, where each species reveals its own personality. Far from standardized design, his work is punctuated by the specific features of each piece of wood: grain, accidents, natural contrasts.
The Denoccho suspension, composed of two species of wood, combines balance, texture and contrasting hues thanks to a partial burning technique. A way of sublimating the material without ever constraining it, respecting what it has to offer.
François adopts a responsible, grounded approach to his work. He prefers wood from pruning, collects and sorts his offcuts, offers his shavings to urban gardens or recycles them as firewood. He prefers natural wood finishes to synthetic varnishes, so as not to deprive his objects of their authentic feel. Each piece is designed to last, and conceived in close connection with the available resource, giving life to projects that adapt to the material, rather than the other way round.
His universe draws on eclectic inspirations: the industrial design of the 20s and 30s, hijacked everyday objects, and the curved forms of Far Eastern ceramics. As in Japan and Scandinavia, he loves this encounter between aesthetics and functionality, between beauty and use.
François le Xuan was awarded the Label Fabriqué en 2025, and3rd prize in the Home Universe category for its Denoccho suspension .
In pictures
Practical information:
Atelier (visits by appointment):
Métropole 19
134 rue d'Aubervilliers
Bâtiment B - 4e étage - Atelier 16
75019 Paris - France
francois@tigredebois.fr
06 15 43 03 33
