Nestled here in North Alabama in the small suburb of Toney, Derek Harvigson’s expansive workshop isn’t just a place where he produces his work, but it’s become a hub where his heritage, passion, and outrageous skill all meet.
Derek’s journey as a fifth-generation woodcraftsman began as far across the county as one could go from North Alabama. He was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, where he grew up immersed in craftsmanship, entrepreneuship, and creativity. His father and grandfather, both cabinetmakers by trade, taught him the intricacies of woodworking by having Derek in the shop from a very young age.
“Woodcraftsmanship became a second language,” he reflects, crediting his upbringing in their shop. This early exposure planted the seeds of skill and passion that would eventually evolve into his life’s work.
Though Derek flirted with careers as varied as acting and search-and-rescue, the familiarity and comfort of being in the workshop proved irresistible. A cabinet project during his acting stint in Las Angeles reignited his love for woodworking, and by the time he and his wife relocated to Alabama in 2017, Derek had shifted his focus to fine woodworking.
The result was a natural evolution toward crafting chairs—arguably one of the most challenging and prestigious forms of woodworking.
“Being a chairmaker is so hard,” Derek says, acknowledging the technical and creative challenges involved. His chairs draw heavily on midcentury Danish modern design, a timeless aesthetic birthed by iconic Danish designers during World War II. These designs emphasize clean lines, elegant functionality, and a blend of materials, which Derek has mastered.
His first chair, crafted six years ago using Danish paper cord—a refined, industrial material woven from tightly wound paper strands— showcased his drive to merge diverse materials to create something incredible.
Since then, he has incorporated leather, upholstery, metals, and other elements into his work and thoroughly enjoys pushing the boundaries of traditional woodworking.
Derek’s 1,100-square-foot workshop is already brimming with equipment and materials as he prepares to launch an additional brand in the near future where he plans to expand his offerings into tables and more.
His dream? To establish a full-scale production shop that blends artisan techniques with European-inspired efficiency.
If one is debating between purchasing a handcrafted piece of furniture from DHG ChairMaker versus a piece that is mass produced, Derek says that it’s the story, the craftsmanship, and the relationship you build with the maker that makes all the difference. Each piece is designed to endure decades of use, becoming a generational heirloom.
“You’re not just buying a chair,” Derek explains. “You’re investing in something that will last for decades, supporting local craftsmanship, and keeping production in the U.S.”
For Derek, crafting furniture is deeply personal.
“I have a piece that’s been passed down from my great-grandmother. That connection means something.”
If you’re interested in shopping Derek’s work, he offers two avenues for making a purchase:
1. Custom commissioned pieces
For those seeking something one-of-a-kind, Derek works closely with clients to create custom chairs and other furniture pieces that are tailored to their preferences and needs. This personalized approach allows buyers to become part of the design process, resulting in pieces that are truly unique.
2. Catalog pieces
Browse Derek’s website to explore his range of options. These chairs, crafted entirely by Derek, are ready to order with detailed descriptions and shorter lead times. Each reflects his expertise in woodworking and Danish-inspired artistry.
As for the future of DGH ChairMaker, Derek Harvigson will be one to watch as his aspirations extend far beyond chairs. His envisions a much larger production shop where he will employ local artisans and produce a wider range of furniture while maintaining the quality and craftsmanship that define his brand.
Visit Derek’s website to browse his catalog or inquire about custom commissions. Your next chair might just become the heirloom your family treasures for generations to come.
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