A shared passion for woodwork and restoration
- Juan Carlos and Rocío create bespoke furniture in wood
- They are motivated by their clients' happiness
- The two artisans have won multiple awards for woodworking and restoration
Juan Carlos Jiménez and Rocío Díaz create and restore furniture pieces together in their workshop Mondema Artesanos. Juan Carlos' journey with woodwork started in Tomelloso at the age of 14. He learned the craft for 10 years at a workshop before becoming independent. “When you work with bespoke furniture, every commission presents a new challenge. I learn more with each project I complete,” he says. Rocío is a restorer who started out as an apprentice in Juan Carlos' workshop. “Wood is incredibly rewarding, and seeing a piece of furniture that is in very poor condition come back to life is a real joy,” she shares. The duo has won several awards for woodworking and furniture restoration. Many of their clients are designers and interior decorators, and their projects vary widely – from very modern, lacquered finishes to simple pieces that feature natural treatment.
Interview
- Why did you choose your craft?
- Juan Carlos: I knew I no longer wanted to pursue a formal education, and a carpentry workshop near me was looking for an apprentice. I was lucky to practise a craft that has now become my passion.
- What do you like about working with wood?
- Rocío: It is incredibly satisfying to see the transformation of wood from a simple board to a finished piece. It is such a versatile material, and we can see that through the evolution of furniture throughout history.
- How do tradition and innovation coexist in your work?
- Juan Carlos: Traditional techniques form the foundation of woodworking and are essential for the completion of most pieces. At the same time, we implement new techniques and machinery that can improve the quality of our finished work.
- What gives you the most satisfaction in your craft?
- Rocío: Without a doubt, the positive feedback from our clients. Over the years, our customers have been delighted with our furniture pieces, and looking back, we are proud of what we have achieved.
Juan Carlos Jiménez & Rocío Díaz are master artisans: they began their career in 1990 and they started teaching in 1990
Where
Juan Carlos Jiménez & Rocío Díaz
