Handmade in Brooklyn With Sinotique

Much can be said for one who loves his work, and when appreciation, talent and sheer passion is incorporated with unique skills and a focused vision, the production of that work is nothing less than magical. This is the case with Jan Lee, owner and craftsman at the workshop and showroom Sinotique. Located in DUMBO since 1996, Sinotique offers more than just antique furniture, as this gallery features custom made furniture and woodwork, courtesy of Lee. The talented woodworker stands as a pioneer amongst the city's woodworking shops and galleries, designing and hand- crafting intricate pieces of furniture to showcase in his shop.

The true beauty of Sinotique does not just lay in the fact that it offers handmade furniture and uniquely designed woodwork that shoppers will find in no other shop. The gallery's originality lays with the opportunity for customers to view both the showroom and workshop of the space, as with each visit Lee offers the rare experience for visitors to tour his workspace and see the dedication and craft behind each piece designed. When Lee designs and creates furniture, as a 20 year veteran in the antique business, the woodworker uses inspiration from a variety of sources. His furniture is crafted from aged exotic goods and materials, and elegantly designed and inspired by his extensive antique collection, for your enjoyment. "The material I use is from 50 to over 80 years old, yet after I treat it, it is durable enough for use as a coffee table or dining table," said Lee. One of the materials Lee uses to construct his unique pieces is Chinese bamboo, and reclaimed materials from overseas. Many of his designs are inspired by Chinese Ming dynasty and live edge slabs design from Japan. Lee also takes inspiration from master furniture maker George Nakashima, and from American shaker designs and styles of simplicity. Featured in homes throughout New York City and the Hamptons, Lee is undoubtedly an influential name in woodworking and custom designed furniture. Interested shoppers can learn more about Lee's designs and chat with designer himself at The Bridgehampton Antiques And Design Show at The Bridgehampton Community House in Bridgehampton, New York, on July 11 through the 15, or stop by Sinotique and ask for a tour.