Zlomke Furniture, where every piece is a work of art
Since 1980, Robert Zlomke has been crafting custom furniture, establishing his workshop in Napa, California in 1987. Over the decades his work has embodied a deep respect for material and craftsmanship. The family legacy now continues with his son, Reuben, who grew up surrounded by the artistry of woodworking and joined the business in 2022. Together, they carry forward a tradition that began with Robert’s grandfather, George Zlomke, who founded the original Zlomke Furniture store in St. Paul, Nebraska.
At the heart of their craft lies a reverence for wood itself. The Zlomkes source their materials from a mix of commercially milled hardwoods, salvaged urban trees, and unique finds, each piece carrying its own story. Whether the design precedes the discovery of the wood or the material sparks the design, every knot, edge, and imperfection is embraced as a mark of character. These natural irregularities often inspire the aesthetic of the furniture, creating a dialogue between the organic randomness of nature and the deliberate geometry of design.
Their creations typically begin with a clean, modern foundation, yet evolve into forms full of curves, contrast, and intricate joinery. By pairing different woods, Robert and Reuben highlight the richness of natural tones and grain patterns, turning simple lines into dynamic compositions. The result is furniture that feels both contemporary and timeless, showcasing precision alongside the expressive peculiarities of handcraft.
Balancing handwork with machine processes, the Zlomkes’ workshop thrives on creativity and adaptability. Aspects of a design often emerge during fabrication, shaped by intuition and experimentation. Every piece they produce is meant to be used. They continue to offer both original designs and commissioned works, inviting clients to explore their full portfolio here at the website.
