Born in York in 1974, I was educated to A-level standard locally. In 1995, after some time away from education, I moved to Newcastle-upon-Tyne to study BA (Hons) Three Dimensional Design at the University of Northumbria. In 1998 I graduated, and was invited to return to the University as a Designer in Residence. This 2-year honorary fellowship allowed me the opportunity to continue working within the field of furniture design, both with students, and with my own clients. In 1999 I established my own business providing hand-made contemporary furniture.