Full Grown
Introducing the second interview in the ‘Unity of Nature’ series, which sponsored by Bioratorium® and hosted by our founder, Dr. Melissa Sterry, spotlights both emerging and established creative talents that are collaborating with living organisms like fungi, lichen, algae and trees to craft groundbreaking works that blur the lines between art, science, and sustainability. Read the interview in full here and read an overview below.
Interview Overview: Alice and Gavin Munro of Full Grown Redefine Sustainable Furniture Design
In a compelling interview hosted by design scientist Dr. Melissa Sterry, Alice and Gavin Munro—the creative forces behind Full Grown—share their revolutionary approach to furniture design. Full Grown is a visionary enterprise that grows bespoke furniture directly from trees, transforming traditional craftsmanship into a regenerative art form. Through their innovative "Chair Orchard," the Munros demonstrate how sustainability, patience, and collaboration with nature can redefine not only design but our relationship with the planet.
The Genesis of Full Grown
The concept emerged in 2006 when Gavin Munro asked himself whether humanity could thrive by working with nature rather than exploiting it. This inquiry led to the creation of Full Grown’s first orchard, where saplings are nurtured into chairs, lamps, and sculptures over years. The idea evolved from an experiment into a groundbreaking reimagining of manufacturing processes. Full Grown’s approach challenges conventional methods by growing furniture in harmony with natural systems, proving that sustainability and artistry can coexist.
The Art and Science of Growing Furniture
Unlike traditional manufacturing, which involves cutting, assembling, and machining wood, Full Grown’s method involves guiding the natural growth of trees. Using frameworks and moulds, branches are shaped into functional forms over 8 to 15 years. The process requires meticulous care, including pruning, adjusting supports, and accommodating the unpredictable tendencies of living organisms. This blend of precision and patience ensures that every piece is unique—a harmonious collaboration between human intention and nature’s inherent creativity.
Challenges and Surprises
One of the central challenges of Full Grown’s process is balancing the organic growth of trees with the precision required to create functional furniture. Each tree reacts differently to factors like sunlight, soil, and weather, introducing an element of unpredictability. While general structures are planned, variations in growth make each piece one-of-a-kind. These surprises are embraced as a vital aspect of Full Grown’s philosophy, enhancing the uniqueness and narrative of each creation.
Environmental Impact
Full Grown’s methodology eliminates energy-intensive processes such as logging and milling. By growing furniture directly in their orchard, they contribute to soil health, promote biodiversity, and sequester carbon—offering a regenerative alternative to industrial manufacturing. Their orchards are ecosystems that sustain local wildlife while demonstrating the long-term environmental benefits of sustainable design.
Collaborations and Legacy
Full Grown’s philosophy has attracted global attention, leading to collaborations with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and acquisitions by renowned museums such as the National Museum of Scotland and San Francisco MOMA. These partnerships highlight the cultural and artistic value of their work, expanding their message to wider audiences.
Looking to the future, the Munros envision creating decentralized “Chair Orchards” worldwide, adapted to local ecosystems. While scaling their method would take decades, they emphasize that such expansion must align with ecological sustainability.
Inspiring Change
Alice and Gavin Munro aim to leave a lasting legacy that reimagines the intersection of design, nature, and sustainability. Their innovative process exemplifies how humanity can collaborate with the environment to create functional, beautiful, and ecologically harmonious products. By growing furniture instead of making it, Full Grown offers a transformative vision of a regenerative future, inspiring the world to embrace a deeper connection with nature.
This interview with Alice and Gavin Munro provides a fascinating glimpse into a design philosophy that merges art, sustainability, and the slow, deliberate rhythms of the natural world.