Alain Van Havre

Alain van Havre: wood takes on a whole new dimension

Alain van Havre: the art of reinventing solid wood

For Alain van Havre, wood is not merely a material. It is a true canvas for expression, where natural curves meet the precision of contemporary design. After studying product development at the Design Academy in Eindhoven, he joined the Belgian furniture manufacturer Ethnicraft in 1999. He first gained an insight into the manufacturing process behind the scenes in Aix-en-Provence, an experience that enabled him to understand the constraints of production and to develop a design approach deeply rooted in the material itself.

Around 2005, he devoted himself fully to furniture design and gradually helped shape Ethnicraft’s identity. His philosophy? To create timeless pieces capable of transcending trends whilst retaining a touch of modernity.

In the mid-2010s, he notably created the Bok collection, which has become one of the brand’s iconic designs. Later, the Graphic and Stairs collections revealed another facet of his work, featuring more geometric shapes and bold combinations of materials. A designer who knows wood inside out. And, above all, who knows how to give it character.

The Bok Chair: wood at its lightest

With the Bok Chair, produced by Ethnicraft, Alain van Havre has achieved a delightful paradox: creating a solid wood chair that appears almost weightless. Inspired by natural forms, it stands out for its slender legs, fluid curves and enveloping backrest. Every detail has been crafted to visually lighten the silhouette, without compromising the material’s strength.

At Maison Vachon, the Bok Chair is available in oak and light oak, two finishes that highlight the warmth of the wood and make it easy to integrate into a variety of interior styles. Whether placed around a reception table, in a dining area or a showroom, it instantly adds a touch of natural elegance.

Solid wood, yes. But with a surprising sense of lightness.

Bok Bench: elegance to be shared

With the Bok Bench, Alain van Havre continues the signature lines of his collection. Still produced by Ethnicraft, it embodies this quest for balance between structure and fluidity, with a sleek silhouette that allows the beauty of the wood to take centre stage. In a reception area, around a table or in a welcoming environment, the Bok Bench allows you to create communal seating without overwhelming the space.

It can be paired with chairs from the same collection to create a harmonious ensemble, or used on its own as a decorative piece in its own right.

A different way to sit. And, above all, to share it.

Slice Dining Table: solid wood thinks big

With the Slice Dining Table 160 × 90, produced by Ethnicraft, Alain van Havre showcases the natural beauty of wood. Its generous tabletop and understated lines make it an ideal piece for furnishing dining or meeting areas with a contemporary aesthetic.

Whether at a reception, a business dinner or in a showroom, it helps to create a warm atmosphere whilst maintaining a sense of visual simplicity. Paired with the Bok chairs, it forms a cohesive ensemble where wood becomes the central theme of the décor.

A table that doesn’t need to try too hard to catch the eye.

Torsion Side Table: wood comes to life

With the Torsion Side Table, Alain van Havre demonstrates that solid wood can also lend itself to more sculptural forms. Produced by Ethnicraft, this side table stands out for its twisted base, whose movement contrasts with the simplicity of its top. A piece that naturally catches the eye and adds a touch of originality to any interior.

In a lounge area, at a cocktail party or a reception, it can hold a few decorative items or be placed alongside seating to create a welcoming space. When wood begins to twist, design takes on a whole new dimension.

Why choose Alain van Havre furniture for an event?

The strength of Alain van Havre’s designs lies in their ability to combine authenticity, elegance and modernity. Solid wood instantly brings a sense of warmth to spaces, whilst the contemporary lines ensure there is no rustic feel. With the Bok chairs and bench, the Slice Dining Table or the Torsion side table, it becomes possible to create cohesive settings suited to a wide variety of environments.

Whether it’s a business dinner, a reception, a showroom, a lounge area or a brand event, these designs fit naturally into settings that prioritise timeless materials and lines. Renting Alain van Havre furniture therefore allows you to introduce a natural and refined aesthetic to your events, without compromising on a contemporary identity. Because wood has that certain something that instantly makes a space feel more welcoming.

Alain van Havre and Ethnicraft make their mark at Maison Vachon

At Maison Vachon, we love designs that transcend trends without losing their individuality. With the pieces designed by Alain van Havre for Ethnicraft, solid wood becomes a true element of interior design. Available to hire from Maison Vachon, the Bok Chairs in oak and light oak, the Bok Bench, the Slice Dining Table and the Torsion Side Table allow you to create reception areas, lounges or showrooms that are elegant, welcoming and contemporary all at once. These designs demonstrate that a traditional material can fit perfectly into the most contemporary of events.

With Alain van Havre, wood does more than simply stand the test of time. It remains right on trend.