About this project
Organisation
Timmerwerkt
Work agendas
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Themes
Organisations
Ghent furniture workshop creates bespoke furniture with newcomers
Timmerwerkt is a Ghent furniture workshop where refugees can take their first steps on the Belgian labour market. Together with motivated newcomers, they design and make high-quality custom-made kitchens, bookcases and bedrooms.
Springboard to the labour market
Despite the current tight labour market, the labour potential of refugees often remains untapped. Founders Hans Gruyaert and Olivier Provist wanted to do something to close that gap. Timmerwerkt offers newcomers a warm welcome and a springboard into our often difficult-to-access labour market. Started in 2018 in a tiny studio in Zottegem without much budget, Timmerwerkt has since grown into a company with 8 permanent and 3 to 4 temporary employees.
Learning metier ánd the language
The newcomers come to Timmerwerkt via OCMW Gent. They stay for quite a long time: 6 to 18 months. This time is needed to master the trade of furniture maker, but also to learn the Dutch language, essential for a smooth integration. Timmerwerkt is a regular company that works without structural subsidies. They make affordable furniture that is all custom-made, from sustainable wood. The design - often in trendy colours and with playful shapes - is created in consultation with the customer.
