Chic Teak’s Story of Sustainable Teak: How Ethical Sourcing Makes a Difference

We’ve always believed that a beautiful piece of furniture should tell a story — not just of its design, but of where it came from, who made it, and the care that went into it.

Our own story with sustainable teak began in March 1997, when Chic Teak first started trading. Just a month later, in April, our very first container of teak furniture arrived from Indonesia — the smell of freshly cut timber, the rich golden tones catching the light. Even then, we knew teak was special, and that it should always be sourced and crafted in a way that respected both nature and people.

It All Begins in the Forests

The teak we use doesn’t come from random felling. It begins its life in sustainably managed plantations where each tree harvested is replaced with new saplings, ensuring a healthy balance for future generations.

We work exclusively with A-grade teak — the highest quality available — free from knots, sapwood, and defects. That’s what gives our premium teak furniture its exceptional strength, silky-smooth finish, and ability to last for decades. Choosing A-grade means fewer replacements, less waste, and more enjoyment for you.

Every shipment we receive is backed by SVLK certification (Sistem Verifikasi Legalitas Kayu), Indonesia’s nationally recognised timber legality system. This ensures that every piece of teak we use is legally harvested and responsibly managed. On arrival in the UK, our teak carries a FLEGT licence (Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade), meeting the European Union’s rigorous requirements for ethical and sustainable timber trade. These aren’t just badges — they’re proof of our commitment to traceable, responsible sourcing.

The Environmental Benefits of Teak

One of the reasons we fell in love with teak is that it’s naturally suited to a long, low-impact life. Its high oil content and dense grain make it naturally resistant to water, pests, and decay — without the need for chemical treatments.

This means our ethical teak garden furniture can be used outdoors year-round and will last for decades with minimal maintenance. Because it lasts so long, it reduces the cycle of replacement that sends so much furniture to landfill.

When a bench, table, or chair is still in use after 20 years, that’s not just a sign of quality — it’s sustainability in action.

A Real Example of Teak That Lasts

Since 2009, we’ve been proud to supply Lord’s Cricket Ground with teak furniture — a place where tradition and quality matter as much as the game itself. One commission we’re particularly honoured by is the Jubilee tree bench, which surrounds the oak tree planted in the Coronation Garden in 1953. Over the years, it has weathered every season, hosted countless visitors, and today it still stands as a beautiful, sturdy testament to the enduring nature of teak and the craftsmanship behind every Chic Teak piece.

Crafted the Traditional Way

All our furniture is made by three long-standing manufacturing partners in Indonesia, each working to our designs and specifications. Two have been with us for over ten years, and one has been crafting for us since that very first shipment in 1997.

We still use joinery techniques like mortice and tenon, dovetail, and doweling — combined with modern precision machinery — because they create furniture that can withstand decades of use. No shortcuts, no flimsy fixings. Our ten-year guarantee simply formalises what we already know: well-made teak furniture will serve you for a lifetime, and beyond.
If a customer has something specific in mind, we are also able to undertake bespoke commissions, turning individual ideas into handcrafted reality.

People and Principles

Sustainability isn’t just about forests; it’s about the people who work with the timber every day. From plantation workers planting new saplings to carpenters hand-finishing each curve, every stage of our process supports fair pay, safe conditions, and respect for traditional skills.

When you choose Chic Teak, you’re not just buying responsibly sourced teak furniture — you’re helping to sustain livelihoods and preserve craftsmanship that might otherwise be lost.

Why It Matters

Our customers — many of whom return to us year after year — value quality, longevity, and authenticity. They want long-lasting outdoor furniture that not only looks beautiful but is produced with integrity.

With sustainable teak and certified ethical sourcing, you can enjoy your furniture knowing it’s as good for the planet as it is for your home or garden. Whether it’s a grand dining table for family gatherings or a simple bench for a quiet corner, every Chic Teak piece has been made with care, from seedling to finished polish.

See, Touch, and Experience the Difference

We encourage customers to visit our showroom, where you can see, touch, and even smell the quality of our teak. You’ll meet our long-serving, knowledgeable team who love nothing more than talking furniture and helping you find the perfect piece for your space.

Our Promise

Every piece we create carries the story of where it came from — from a sapling in a managed forest, to the careful shaping by a skilled carpenter, to its place in your home or garden.

Our commitment is to continue producing ethical teak garden furniture that blends enduring beauty, environmental responsibility, and exceptional craftsmanship — all delivered across the UK mainland with our own white glove service, using our own staff and vans.

Chic Teak — where sustainable teak meets timeless design.