About

Harry Dunlop

Prologue Workshops is founded and operated by Harry Dunlop. Based just outside of London, he works alongside a small group of fellow makers to produce bespoke, handmade furniture from their East Sussex workshop.

Prior to setting up Prologue Workshops, Harry had a 10-year career in Corporate Finance, working on mergers + acquisitions in the technology sector.

The global pandemic provided an opportunity for self-reflection and during this time Harry made the decision to leave Corporate Finance in pursuit of a second-career and more creative life in making + craft.

Having retrained under renowned furniture maker + restorer John Lloyd, Harry launched Prologue Workshops in 2022 and has since worked on commissions for a variety of private + commercial clients.

The work is influenced by Harry’s British-Chinese heritage and his appreciation for both mid-century and Oriental design languages.

Our Why

“To design and create objects which inspire and spark joy in the day-to-day life of others.”

Our mission is to help customers build environments which give them joy. Developing furniture which expresses their individuality and speaks to their story; accommodating their needs without compromise.

Our Ethos

We believe good furniture should:

  • Furniture is an ever-present part of our work, play and rest; We gather around tables, focus at desks, converse in chairs and relax in beds.

    Our lives happen around these objects and for this reason they can be symbolic reminders of some of the most important moments and people in our lives.

    We believe deep connections are formed with the objects we spend the most time with. Furniture can often evoke memories of life’s key moments and become a sentimental reminder of the people who used them most. Good furniture should honour that emotional connection and be an expression of who we are and what we value.

  • A well designed environment has the ability to improve our mood and enhance our quality of life.

    Accomplished art incites questions, provokes curiosity and communicates who we are and what we believe. As Makers we think of furniture as a form of functional artwork, blending design utility with creative expression.

    Good furniture should enrich the lives of its users by finding the perfect balance between form and function. When this is achieved the resulting pieces can lift our spirits, spark conversation, simplify daily life and encouraging us to pursue the things that brings us joy.

  • Furniture made with the highest levels of craftsmanship is often termed “heirloom quality” for good reason. Through thoughtful design, considered use of materials and the skilful use of tools, furniture can be built to last for many generations, without need for replacement.

    Making in this way takes time and patience and is significantly less profitable than mass production, but as makers we believe it represents the most sustainable use of our planet’s resources and the best return on investment for customers in the long-term.

    Good furniture should last for generations, honouring natural materials, celebrating craftsmanship and representing a responsible use of our planet’s resources.