Hoi An Wood turns reclaimed boat timber into high-end furniture
DNO - Hoi An Wood is transforming timber salvaged from old, damaged boats into high-end, one-of-a-kind furniture. The model is a story of the circular economy, creating new value while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
From old boats to a journey of timber regeneration
The idea of repurposing boat timber came from the reality that many old boats are abandoned or reused for low-value purposes.
Meanwhile, boatbuilding timber is often made from valuable, high-quality woods such as ‘kien kien’, ‘sen’ and ‘sao’.
After more than six years of making products from reclaimed wood, Hoi An Wood recognizes it as a valuable source of materials while also creating jobs for skilled carpenters in Kim Bong Village.
What sets Hoi An Wood apart is its professional approach to handling this material.
Before entering production, every piece of timber undergoes a careful selection process, including inspection and removal of metal, treatment for warping, material stabilization and classification based on its characteristics. Only timber that meets quality requirements is used for crafting.
In particular, the production process must follow the original dimensions of each piece of timber.
Thin planks salvaged from smaller boats can be used to make cabinets and chairs, while larger pieces are suitable for doors and gates.
This approach requires craftsmen to possess not only technical skills but also the ability to “read” the material and understand each wood grain in order to make the most appropriate choice.
Old wood transformed into unique masterpieces
According to Kim Bong carpenters, every piece of boat timber carries its own marks of time.
Exposure to seawater, natural erosion, and reactions with metal create distinctive colors, grain patterns, and “scars” that are difficult to replicate in new wood.
Instead of concealing these marks, the craftsmen work to highlight them, using specialized wood oil instead of glossy PU coatings to preserve the material’s original appearance.
The sophisticated joinery techniques, structural expertise, traditional carving skills and meticulous finishing of Kim Bong carpenters are incorporated into each product.
Their craftsmanship brings pieces of wood with different shapes, sizes and marks together into harmonious, durable and functional designs.
After six years of steadfast commitment to reclaiming old wood, Hoi An Wood has established a reputable brand, becoming a preferred choice for architects and discerning wood enthusiasts alike.
In the coming years, the company plans to invest in production technology, refine its reclaimed material management processes, enhance product quality, and expand its market reach.
It is also finalizing procedures to establish a manufacturing plant at the Thanh Ha Industrial Cluster.