Tronk Design puts modern spin on handcrafted mid-20th century style furniture

Brad Musuraca started building furniture "just for fun" shortly after graduating in 2006 from the University of Cincinnati.

In January, he decided to make it a way of life, and he launched Tronk Design. The startup puts a modern spin on the classic design of the mid-20th century. Tronk's handmade pieces come in three hardwoods: cherry, maple and walnut. The line includes a table, planter, shelf, bed and "retro" clock/stereo dock.

"Our current line very much has a mid-century feel to it," Musuraca says. "We really wanted to stay away from the ultra contemporary look, which may be appealing now but will eventually look dated. We are really going for a simple but elegant look that won't lose its appeal."

Tronk Design debuted at the AmericasMart International Home and Gift Show in Atlanta. Musuraca designs and manufactures the furniture in his Forest Park workshop.

The furniture features simple designs with clean, sharp lines and an interesting look. Tronk's most popular product so far is the Franklin Shelf. It's a 90-degree corner shelf that can be easily used in small spaces.

"The Franklin shelf gets a lot of attention," Musuraca says. "It was up for an award at the Icon Honors (furniture industry award) in Atlanta. It was a finalist."

Tronk furniture is sold mainly through independent retailers and online through sites including fab.com, TouchofModern and Scoutmob. Tronk has recently added an option to buy through its website.

Musuraca is working to grow the company by finding new dealers and expanding the line. By next year, he plans to add metal and more contemporary pieces to his designs.

By Feoshia H. Davis
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