Nakashima Woodworkers
A sanctuary of masterful woodworking and integrated architecture, celebrating nature's beauty through iconic live-edge furniture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Essential for guided experience
Nakashima Woodworkers
Best Time
Essential for guided experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary of masterful woodworking and integrated architecture, celebrating nature's beauty through iconic live-edge furniture.
"A visit to the Nakashima compound is a relaxing and informative walk through a variety of workshops and living quarters."
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for a full experience and require advance RSVP. They often fill up months in advance!
📸 Respect Photo Restrictions
Photography is generally limited to outdoor areas and storage. Capture the essence, not every detail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Nakashima Studio Complex
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Explore the architectural marvels and serene grounds designed by George Nakashima himself. Integrated with nature, it's a testament to his vision.
Masterful Live-Edge Furniture
Workshops and Gallery
Witness the iconic live-edge furniture, a hallmark of George Nakashima's innovative style. See pieces in progress and finished masterpieces.
The Wood Barn Collection
Storage Facility
Marvel at the vast collection of world woods, waiting to be transformed into artful furniture by Nakashima Woodworkers.
Family Legacy and History
Throughout the grounds
Learn about the Nakashima family's journey, including their resilience through historical hardships and their continued dedication to craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Respect the Serene Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for a full experience and require advance RSVP. They often fill up months in advance!
📸 Respect Photo Restrictions
Photography is generally limited to outdoor areas and storage. Capture the essence, not every detail.
🌿 Appreciate the Landscape
The grounds are as much a masterpiece as the furniture. Take time to soak in the integration of architecture and nature.
✨ Learn the History
Understanding the Nakashima family's story adds depth to your visit. Their resilience is inspiring.
Nakashima Grounds
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours Early
Tours are essential for a full experience and require advance RSVP. They often fill up months in advance!
📸 Respect Photo Restrictions
Photography is generally limited to outdoor areas and storage. Capture the essence, not every detail.
🌿 Appreciate the Landscape
The grounds are as much a masterpiece as the furniture. Take time to soak in the integration of architecture and nature.
✨ Learn the History
Understanding the Nakashima family's story adds depth to your visit. Their resilience is inspiring.
💡 Inspired by Designs
See how Nakashima's live-edge philosophy influences modern woodworking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Nakashima Woodworkers for its serene atmosphere, the profound artistry of George Nakashima's designs, and the insightful guided tours that reveal the family's legacy. The integration of architecture with nature and the impressive collection of wood are frequently highlighted as exceptional aspects of the experience. Some visitors note that photography restrictions and the need for advance booking can be a minor inconvenience, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.
"i live like 20 minutes away from here and i was shocked when i heard namjoon was there and bought a table. MY FREAKIN IDOL WAS 20 MINS AWAY FROM ME JDJDJDKDK"
Jamie S
"I gave this a 4 Star because I have not been there, but loved what was shown! I first saw his wife on the CREATE Channel giving tours of their property.
I was fascinated with their home, types of work he his wife did and she continues to do! Too long to go into details. But I plan to register for one of those tours offered and bring along my friends who also loves these type of Wood works! I hope to purchase a piece or two for My home! When we do visit, I know a 5 Star will be well deserved!"
Sheryl McFarland
"Mr Nakashima made an altar for our church in Philadelphia. Beautiful hand crafted from a tree over 100 years old. It was such a pleasure to visit his studio and attend Mass at his Parish."
Joan Chisholm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nakashima Woodworkers is located in New Hope, Pennsylvania. The best way to reach it is by car. Public transportation options are limited in this area. Check your GPS for the most direct route to the studio.
Yes, parking is available on-site for visitors attending tours or events. It's recommended to arrive a little early to find a convenient spot.
While the grounds are serene, the most comprehensive experience is through a guided tour. These tours offer access to various buildings and insights into the Nakashima legacy.
If coming from a major city like Philadelphia or New York, driving is the most convenient. Alternatively, you can take a train to a nearby station and then a taxi or rideshare to New Hope.
New Hope, PA, offers a charming selection of boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts. Booking in advance is advised, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours at Nakashima Woodworkers require advance RSVP and are offered on limited dates throughout the year. It's crucial to check their official website or contact them directly for booking information and availability.
Tour pricing can vary. It's best to consult the official Nakashima Woodworkers website for the most current information on tour fees and what is included.
Nakashima Woodworkers primarily operates for scheduled tours and by appointment. Their general operating hours for tours are limited, so checking their schedule is essential.
While the studio showcases incredible furniture, direct purchases may be limited or require specific inquiries. The focus is on appreciating the craftsmanship and legacy. Some pieces might be available through their gallery or by special commission.
Generally, tours are suitable for all ages, but it's always a good idea to check with Nakashima Woodworkers directly if you have specific concerns about younger children attending.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
A guided tour offers a walk through George Nakashima's home, workshops, and gallery spaces. You'll see his architectural designs integrated with nature and learn about his woodworking philosophy and family history.
Photography is generally permitted in outdoor areas and the storage facility. However, restrictions may apply inside certain buildings or workshops to preserve the integrity of the space and ongoing work.
Tours usually last around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing ample time to explore the grounds and absorb the information shared by the guide.
George Nakashima is credited with popularizing the live-edge aesthetic, which celebrates the natural, unfinished edge of a wood slab, showcasing its organic beauty and history.
The grounds are largely natural and may have uneven terrain. It's advisable to contact Nakashima Woodworkers in advance to discuss accessibility options and any potential limitations.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior architecture integrated with the landscape offers stunning photographic opportunities. The wood barn, with its impressive collection, is also a visual treat. Remember to respect any posted photo restrictions.
Photos of the furniture are generally allowed in designated areas, particularly in the gallery spaces. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific guidelines provided by your tour guide.
Drone photography is typically not permitted at private estates and studios like Nakashima Woodworkers due to privacy and safety concerns. It's best to assume it's prohibited unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Focus on capturing the interplay between the natural wood, the architecture, and the serene environment. Details of the joinery and the unique grain patterns of the wood are also highly rewarding.
While a smartphone can capture great shots, if you're passionate about photography, bringing a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens can enhance your ability to capture the textures and light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to manage expectations regarding interactive elements; this is a place for quiet appreciation. Ensure children understand the need for respectful behavior on the grounds. Consider focusing on the visual aspects – the unique shapes of the wood, the integration of buildings with nature – to keep younger visitors engaged.
🎨 Art & Architecture Enthusiasts
The furniture on display, particularly the iconic live-edge pieces, represents a significant contribution to 20th-century design. Seeing the raw materials in the wood barn and understanding the meticulous process behind each creation offers a profound appreciation for the artistry involved. The historical context of the Nakashima family's journey adds another compelling layer to the experience.
🌳 Nature Lovers
Take time to wander the serene paths and appreciate the thoughtful landscaping. The wood barn, with its collection of diverse timbers, is a celebration of nature's bounty. The entire estate feels like a harmonious dialogue between human creation and the environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Philosophy of George Nakashima
This approach meant embracing imperfections, knots, and the natural contours of the wood, rather than trying to force it into conventional shapes. His designs are characterized by their organic lines, minimalist aesthetic, and profound connection to nature. Nakashima's work is not just about furniture; it's about a holistic approach to design and living. His studio complex in New Hope, Pennsylvania, is a testament to this, with buildings that are seamlessly integrated into the landscape. He believed that architecture and nature should coexist harmoniously, with structures that enhance, rather than dominate, their surroundings. This philosophy is evident in the way his buildings frame views of the natural world, making the landscape an integral part of the interior experience.
The Nakashima Woodworkers studio continues this legacy, with his daughter Mira Nakashima-Brown and other skilled artisans carrying on his design principles. They meticulously select wood, often from fallen trees, and employ traditional joinery techniques to create pieces that are both functional art and enduring heirlooms. Visitors on tours can witness this process firsthand, gaining an appreciation for the dedication and artistry involved in each creation.
A Visit to the Nakashima Grounds
The tour provides access to various workshops where the magic happens, showcasing both finished masterpieces and works in progress. A highlight for many is the wood barn, a vast space housing an impressive collection of wood from around the globe, each piece holding the potential for future artistry. This collection underscores the Nakashima commitment to sourcing unique and beautiful materials.
Beyond the tangible creations, the visit offers insights into the Nakashima family's personal history, including the challenges they faced as Japanese Americans during periods of internment. This historical context adds a profound layer to the appreciation of their enduring success and the creation of this remarkable compound. The serene atmosphere and the thoughtful design of the grounds make it a truly memorable and inspiring experience.
The Art of Live-Edge Furniture
Nakashima Woodworkers are masters of this craft. They meticulously select slabs of wood, often from rare or exceptionally beautiful trees, and then carefully shape them to create tables, benches, and other furniture pieces. The process involves preserving the 'live edge' while ensuring the surface is smooth and functional. This often involves intricate joinery and finishing techniques that complement, rather than conceal, the wood's natural features.
This style of furniture is highly sought after for its organic beauty and the statement it makes in a space. It brings a piece of nature indoors, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and sophisticated design. Whether it's a coffee table inspired by a Nakashima design or an original piece from the studio, live-edge furniture is a testament to the enduring appeal of natural forms.
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