Side table by Van Treight Furniture

Van Treight Furniture was a furniture manufacturing company that was founded in 1948 by John Van Treight in Five Dock, New South Wales, Australia. John Van Treight, a mechanical engineer by profession, started the business with a vision to create high-quality furniture with superb craftsmanship.

Initially, Van Treight Furniture focused on producing nursery furniture such as cots, playpens, high chairs, and wooden toys. As the demand for their products increased, they expanded their range to include lounge suites, occasional chairs, fireside chairs, and other furniture pieces. The company gained a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship, with a particular emphasis on combining modern engineering techniques with traditional skills.

In 1966, John and Pieter Van Treight visited Drexel Heritage, a renowned manufacturer of traditional furniture based in North Carolina, United States. They secured the rights to manufacture Drexel Heritage products under license in Australia. This partnership allowed Van Treight Furniture to access a wider range of designs and expand their production capabilities, particularly in the realm of dining room furniture and cabinetry.

Over the years, Van Treight Furniture became known for its meticulous workmanship and attention to detail. Skilled craftsmen, some with European backgrounds, joined the company, contributing their family traditions of excellent workmanship to the furniture-making process.

However, in 2001, due to various challenges in the furniture industry, including increased competition from Asian manufacturers, rising costs, an aging workforce, and the need for maintenance on their facilities, the decision was made to wind down the business. The closure process took several months, and an on-site auction was held to sell off the remaining plant, machinery, and stock.

Van Treight Furniture holds a legacy of producing high-quality furniture and combining craftsmanship with modern engineering techniques. Although the company closed its doors, its reputation for excellence and the contributions made by John Van Treight and his family remain part of its enduring story.