Irène Meneghetti

Can you introduce yourself in a few words?

I am a furniture and wood conservator-restorer, trained in Germany and in Paris at the INP, where I am currently completing the final year of my Master’s degree. I also hold a degree in Art History and a CAP in cabinetmaking (ébénisterie). Alongside my work in heritage conservation, I practice woodworking, which is a true passion of mine.

What is your story with L’Établisienne?

I regularly come to L’Établisienne to use the shared workshop for woodworking projects, whether for friends or for myself. L’Établisienne allows me to create freely without needing to have a permanent personal workshop.

What do you do there?

I teach the course “Furniture Restoration”, which focuses in depth on wood as a material: identifying wood species and wood-based materials, understanding the products and techniques used in restoration, and learning how to choose the right treatment to ensure the proper conservation of wooden furniture.

What is:

Your favorite material?
Wood. I especially love working with solid wood, particularly oak and fruitwood species.

Your favorite tool?
The hand plane — my grandfather taught me how to use it when I was little.

Your favorite gesture?
Working with a well-sharpened chisel to remove those tiny, unnecessary wood shavings.