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Vienna, Austria

Clemens Schmidberger

HEITA contemporary wood
Woodworker

A delicate feel to a sturdy craft

  • Clemens creates adjustable wooden objects using 3D printing
  • He finds inspiration in everyday objects for fresh designs
  • His quality standard means flawless, light and finely crafted wood

Before establishing himself in woodwork, Clemens Schmidberger studied mechatronics and wood technology. He worked in developing products for luxury private jet interiors, a field known for its high-quality craftsmanship. "I grew up in a family with a strong woodworking tradition, but I chose to pursue innovative furniture design rather than follow their traditional industrial routes," he says. Clemens' first creation was a wooden bed he built for himself, which he later adapted in size. He emphasises modularity and incorporates hidden technical details in his work, such as expandable shelving systems and stackable home accessories. "After becoming a father, I was inspired to design safe, lightweight and modular children’s furniture that grow with the child," he says. Combining technical skill, innovation and personal experience, Clemens creates high-quality, adaptable pieces that reflect both his heritage and his modern design philosophy.


Interview

©Patrick Johannsen
©Patrick Johannsen
What inspires your designs?
My inspiration comes from everyday life. It all began with a simple egg cup idea. I wanted to make something ornate more simple using layered, dyed veneers. I enjoy seeing ordinary objects in a new way and giving them a fresh, personal touch.
What is your woodwork’s wow factor?
The mechanism I developed for the shelf always makes people question the way it works. In my home accessories, the dovetail joints impress people with their fine details. They are amazed at how delicate yet sturdy woodwork can be, especially with the lightweight strength from laminated shaping.
How does technology shape your creative process?
Technology plays a key role in my craft. 3D printing helps me the most. I use it for workshop tools and pressing moulds for my home accessories. It allows fast prototyping of production processes, such as guides for my spring mechanisms. I also use CNC milling.
How do you define true quality in your work?
Quality means exploring wood’s limits by making it light, fine and flawless. I value local materials and production. My background in private jet interiors set my high standards for quality pieces, which must feel right and be flawless to me.
Clemens Schmidberger is a rising star: he began his career in 2021

Where


Clemens Schmidberger

Address: Sechshauser Strasse 28/3, 1150, Vienna, Austria
Hours: By appointment only
Phone: +43 6508883031
Languages: German, English
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