Over the years, we’ve honed traditional craftsmanship methods to develop a unique process… This commitment to refinement ensures that our design services and quality are unparalleled

Q: Fifty years of manufacturing high quality furniture is a significant milestone. Take us through the inception of Mahogany Masterpieces…

A: The company was founded in 1974 by my father and his brothers under the name Craft Supplies. Despite lacking a formal background in the sector, my father was passionate about timber.

His breakthrough came with an order from the late Barbara Sansoni – the founder of Barefoot – for barrel shaped wooden buttons. This success led Craft Supplies to diversify into handicraft and wooden products, such as wall plaques, tea barrels and curtain rods.

In the early 1980s, a Scottish furniture expert approached my father to produce period furniture reproductions for the European market. I remember this expert staying with us and training our carpenters in the art of fine furniture making, emphasising craftsmanship, attention to detail and traditional yet highly technical methods that we still use today.

 

Q: What are some key milestones that you’ve achieved along the way?

A: Venturing into the furniture sector from handicrafts was a pivotal milestone especially as studying furniture craftsmanship under an international expert established the high standards we uphold today.

In 2005, we rebranded as Mahogany Masterpieces to better reflect our focus on fine furniture. Shortly after in 2010, we introduced Furniture Spa, our furniture aftercare service, making us the only company offering a comprehensive end-to-end furniture solution.

And in 2022, we expanded into total interior solutions, which exceeded our expectations. With a talented team led by our Director of Design and Brand Development Ayesha Karunaweera, who has over 15 years of experience in the sector, this new direction has driven steady growth and success in both local and international markets.

Q: How did Mahogany Masterpieces evolve into a premier luxury brand that is recognised globally today?

A: We have exported furniture to over 16 countries, catering to a globally elite clientele. Over the years, we have honed traditional craftsmanship methods to develop a unique process that sets us apart.

This commitment to refinement ensures that our design services and quality are unparalleled in the sector. Unlike many companies that replicate existing designs, we intend for every piece we create to stand out and be distinctly recognisable as a Mahogany Masterpiece product.

The distinctive systems, processes and quality standards that we’ve developed have allowed us to carve out a niche in the luxury lifestyle market.

Q: And how do you see the value of your products evolving over the next 50 years, particularly in terms of their status as antiques and heirlooms?

A: Products we crafted over 40 years ago still come through our Furniture Spa for rejuvenation, reflecting the exceptional craftsmanship and quality of materials we use.

While Sri Lanka has a lucrative antiques and vintage furniture market, there are no recognised manufacturers or craftsmen akin to European greats such as Hepplewhite and Chippendale. We believe that our furniture will stand the test of time and become sought-after heirlooms or investment pieces.

To ensure our furniture’s legacy, we introduced a new branding and coding system. Each piece features our distinctive ‘M’ branding and a code that identifies us as the manufacturer of the piece, making it traceable through the decades. This system not only underscores our commitment to quality but also helps our products appreciate in value as collectibles.

Q: Looking to the future, how do you plan to keep Mahogany Masterpieces at the forefront of the furniture sector?

A: Innovation, a passion for design and our commitment to quality have brought us to where we are today. We’re excited about our future initiatives including apprenticeship programmes to attract skilled artisans and showcase Sri Lankan craftsmanship globally.

We plan on launching a new furniture range in August this year, reflecting current trends and our design sensibilities, which often set trends in the sector.

Additionally, to mark our 50th anniversary, we will introduce a new line of exclusive merchandise including branded watch boxes, jewellery boxes, trays and coasters. We are enthusiastic about these developments and the ongoing demand for our brand.

Q: Can you describe the range of services offered under Mahogany Masterpieces’ interior design solutions?

A: We begin our custom design process with a detailed client brief to understand their lifestyle and tastes, engaging with the entire family to reflect their unique needs in our interior solutions.

Today’s clients seek luxury at home, not only in hotels. High achieving individuals want spaces that feel like personal achievements and meet exceptional standards.

Our approach includes conceptualisation, custom design and total interior solutions. We handle everything from technical drawings and planning to finalising designs, incorporating elements like drop down ceilings, curtains, feature walls, wallpaper, rugs, lighting, paintings and linen.

Our experienced project management team coordinates with various contractors to ensure seamless execution. Our extensive experience ensures results that stand out in the sector.

– Compiled by Tamara Rebeira

 Telephone: 0777 552472 | Email: info@mahoganymasterpieces.com | Website: www.mahoganymasterpieces.com