Gordon Russell (1892–1980) was a pioneering British designer and furniture maker whose work bridged the Arts and Crafts tradition and modern design. Born in Worcestershire, he was deeply influenced by the craftsmanship ideals of the Cotswold School and the legacy of William Morris. After serving in World War I, Russell joined his father’s workshop in Broadway, where he championed well-made, affordable furniture that blended traditional techniques with evolving contemporary styles. In the 1920s and ’30s, his firm became known for producing high-quality oak and walnut pieces that combined honest construction with restrained design. As director of the Council for Industrial Design after World War II, Russell played a leading role in shaping post-war British design standards. His legacy is marked by a lifelong commitment to craftsmanship, utility, and the democratic potential of good design.
