Behind our Reclaimed Teak Collection

Having become a cornerstone of our Kayu Studio collection, our Reclaimed Teak Collection always captures the attention and curiosity of our customers.

Explore the craftsmanship and process behind these one-of-a-kind pieces.

At Kayu Studio, we believe furniture should be made with intention — crafted slowly, thoughtfully, and with respect for both material and maker. We are often drawn to materials that carry a story — a history shaped by time, nature and craftsmanship. Our Reclaimed Teak Collection is a testament to this philosophy, forming the foundation of many of our most loved designs and signature Kayu Studio pieces.

Handcrafted in Java, our reclaimed teak collection is made from salvaged hardwood sourced from old homes, bridges, and structures across Indonesia as these features are slowly replaced by modern infrastructure. By repurposing this durable hardwood, we are able to minimise waste, reduce demand for new logging of plantation teak, and give new life to a resource already rich in character. 

Before being transformed into furniture, our reclaimed teak is carefully selected and meticulously restored by skilled artisans using time-honoured techniques. Small gaps or imperfections are filled with solid teak inserts, seamlessly fitted and secured. The wood is then hand-sanded multiple times, ensuring a smooth, resilient finish that is designed to maintain its strength for years to come.

Within each repurposed plank, natural weathering, knots, and grain patterns tell a unique tale, giving every furniture piece a character that cannot be replicated. We see these imperfections and marks of time not as flaws but rather a celebration of the timber's enduring strength and resilience. Nail holes and other marks remain intentionally, forming part of the woods natural character and charm.

Teak itself is an exceptionally durable hardwood, thanks to its slow growth — taking up to 80 years to reach full maturity. This extended growth period results in dense, high-quality timber known for its natural resilience. Reclaimed teak, having already withstood the elements for years or even decades, is even more stable and resistant to warping, making it an ideal choice for long-lasting furniture.

When you choose reclaimed teak, you bring home more than just furniture — you welcome a piece of history, a commitment to sustainability, and a material that only gets better with time.

Discover the full collection here.