Ask a Tree

This work is all about questions.  What are you, tree?  What is my role here as the wood worker? 

Within our studio this collection is in many ways a test - following a set path to find what ideas and new aesthetics might emerge.  We self-consciously attempt to become part of the narrative of the forest.  Every detail we can observe is important, and we work in small stages responding to what is directly in front of us never looking too far ahead - so together with the material itself we discover what the work is.  

Charlie is a thinker and experienced maker and he is clear here - the variation and shapes you see here are products of the method first.  Observe, Interact, Adapt, Repeat.  No masterplans. Work in timely actions.  Set up exchanges. Resilience in Diversity. 

Connecting this work to existing networks such as Hyatt and their guests, and sharing information about regeneration and setting up exchanges in a wide variety of contexts is part of a Charlie Whinney Studio's developing regenerative practice alongside many other current projects.

Charlie Whinney

Charlie Whinney studied architecture followed by an HND in Furniture from Rycotewood College in Oxford, a BA in 3D Design for Sustainability from Falmouth College of Arts and an MA in Regenerative Design from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London.

.He started steam-bending at Rycotewood College while also working as a blacksmith for his brother Jos who is a maker too.  Steam-bending allows freshly cut locally sourced timer to be bent, squashed or twisted as well as dried in one process.

Charlie shares his time between academic/design research and writing, and work as an artist with large scale installations all over the world. In 2025 he displayed the largest remaining part of the world famous Sycamore Gap tree.

Park Hyatt London River Thames

'Park Hyatt London River Thames is a sanctuary of understated luxury set along the river Thames, where art and hospitality come together in elevating guest experiences. Rooted in a "Park by the Water" concept, the hotel features a thoughtfully curated collection of works from over 20 artists, blending Eastern and Western influences to create a serene, immersive journey. At its heart, Charlie Whinney's striking sculptural installation Ebb and Flow anchors the lobby, capturing the rhythm of the Thames and defining the hotel's artistic identity.'

'Elegant guestrooms and suites offer a refined residential feel, with floor-to-ceiling views and interiors enriched by subtle artistic details. Culinary experiences range from signature Cantonese flavours of Yú Gé to relaxed, contemporary dining and a sophisticated bar and lounge. With a light-filled dedicated floor for spa, Park Hyatt London River Thames offers quiet luxury completing a guest experience that is both culturally immersive and effortlessly serene.'

Ebb & Flow Sculpture

The giant Ebb and Flow sculpture was created from Ash die-back trees from the National Trust's Sizergh Estate in the neighbouring valley to Charlie Whinney Studio in Cumbria.  The trees were felled as part of the National Trust's regenerative management plan for that land.  There's no glue or anything artificial.  It's just wood and very thin 100% recycled copper which was hand beaten in an modest artisanal workshop in China where traditional tea pots and cups are also created, supporting a heritage craft the building's owner cares about.  

Many units of the same sculptural element repeat again and again with infinite variety, like the rhythms of the tidal river outside and also the rhythms of people passing though the city and hotel.

Ebb & Flow was commissioned by Debut Studio