Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions about Studio Botanica's Products, Customization, Shipping, Aftercare Advice, Sustainability and Quality Assurance. Please email info@studiobotanica.ch if you have any questions that we have not covered in this section. 

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Products

What are the Pierre Jeanneret Design Chairs?

The ‘V-legged’ design that features rattan cane weaving by Pierre Jeanneret is functional, practical, and comfortable. We have made minimal adjustments to the chair's original designs to improve durability and functionality. Often considered as the design world’s first “open source” project means that there is no ‘official manufacturer’ of Pierre Jeanneret chairs. 

What is a Pierre Jeanneret Re-edition?

A re-edition is a new production of a classic design. A “re-edition” is a term used in furniture and textile design to describe the re-issue of an older industrial product based on original designs. We respect the designs of Pierre Jeanneret’s Chandigarh Collection and respect the original design's as closely as possible. 

Are your Pierre Jeanneret Chairs Handmade?

A family of expert carpenters and weavers in Mumbai make each piece in our collection by hand using only natural materials. Our supplier is a premium maker of Pierre Jeanneret re-editions. This means we only used aged teak in our production process, which is more durable, sustainable, and offers a higher-quality finish. Studio Botanica’s chairs are assembled using traditional Indian wooden joinery techniques that bind the chairs together without the need to use metal screws.

Is your Rattan Cane Machine or Hand-Woven? 

Our rattan cane is hand-picked and woven by expert weavers who are masters of their craft. Rattan weaves can also be completed by a machine using plastic. However, there is a very noticeable difference in quality, price, and durability with these options.  Please visit our pages on cane weaving and the different cane weaves  options availble for more information. 

What is the history of the Chandigarh and Pierre Jeanneret Collection?

The Pierre Jeanneret chairs are a special item of furniture that has a long and fascinating history. Designed by Pierre Jeanneret in collaboration with local Indian designers, they were originally crafted in the early part of the 20th century for the city of Chandigarh. Since then, the Pierre Jeanneret Chairs have been collected and used by interior designers, and their popularity has endured for over a century. For more information, check out our stories page. 

 

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Customization

Do you offer customization?

We can usually offer customizations on orders. Here you can find more information about our product options including different, cane weaves, wood finishes and textiles. Please write to us at info@studiobotanica.ch with your request and we will try our best to help you.

I’m an interior designer. Can we work together?

Of course! We welcome collaborations with like-minded creatives. Please write to us at info@studiobotanica.ch and tell us about your project in more detail.

 

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Shipping

Where do you ship to?

We ship our products worldwide. We have an established partnership with FedEx, UPS, and DHL that handle international air freight delivery. For larger orders, we offer the option of ocean freight and air freight. Ocean shipping is only possible for orders with a minimum order quantity of 15 or more pieces.

What is your Return Policy?

In the event, you are not completely satisfied with your product(s) or if something is damaged, you can return the item(s) within 14 days for a refund. To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.

To start a return, you can contact us at info@studiobotanica.ch. If your return is accepted, you will be emailed instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return using the emails will not be accepted.

Studio Botanica is not responsible for return shipping costs or handling charges. In case of a lost delivery when returning an item, Studio Botanica cannot be held responsible. In case an order is being canceled by the customer, the credit card charges will be deducted from the total amount.

For more details, review our Refund Policy.

What happens if my order gets damaged during delivery?

Your purchase is covered by insurance until it is delivered to your door. We encourage you to inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective or damaged so that we can evaluate the issue and immediately lodge a claim with our insurer.

What are your Delivery Times?

Delivery times range from 6-8 weeks from placing your order until it arrives at your doorstep. We keep you up to date throughout every step of the delivery process.

Do you charge for shipping and packing?

Shipping and packing charges are included in our retail price advertised on Studio Botanica’s website. The shipping cost is based on standard international shipping rates calculated by FedEx, UPS, and DHL. All charges upon final purchase cover air freight, clearance processing, insurance and door delivery.

What customs duties and taxes do I need to be aware of?

Customs duties and taxes that may be levied at the destination country are not included in our shipping charges and are the responsibility of the buyer. Here are some useful links with more information about customs duties and taxes in Europe.

Will I face any issues with customs clearance for international purchases?

We do everything to provide a positive delivery experience with minimal involvement from Studio Botanica’s customers. Our workshop in Mumbai and Fedex prepare all the necessary documentation required help with customs clearance. We constantly monitor your shipment and stay in touch with the shipping company to sort out any clearance related issues.

What if I am not at home when my order arrives?

We stay in contact with you throughout the delivery process and take extra steps to ensure you are home when your order arrives. If you are not home when your order arrives, you should contact the delivery service provider to arrange for the order to be picked up or re-delivered. In any case, you can contact info@studiobotanica.ch if you need assistance. We're always happy to help.

 

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Aftercare

How do I care for and maintain my pieces?

Teak and rattan cane furniture are both long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing, but they require different care. Follow these tips to maintain your furniture and keep it looking beautiful. 

Teak Aftercare

Teak is a sturdy, naturally oiled wood, so it doesn't require much maintenance. Simply dust and wipe down with a dry cloth regularly. If it becomes too dry, you can use teak oil to restore its oils or apply a small amount of organic beeswax to restore the lacquer's polish. 

Rattan Cane Aftercare

Rattan weaving is a traditional method of weaving that has been used for centuries to make chairs with beautiful, intricate patterns. To ensure that your rattan chairs last for years to come, ensure that no extreme or uneven pressure is applied while sitting in the chair. Be cautious about pieces of clothing becoming attached to the weave, as this may damage its integrity when getting off the chair. To protect the rattan cane, we advise applying a seating pad to the chair for both comfort and to protect the chair.

What are the do's and don'ts?

Our teak furniture is extremely durable and requires a bit of extra care to ensure it lasts for years. We advise that you protect your pieces from the elements - keeping them away from harsh direct sunlight or rain under any circumstances. Although teak is hardwood and very weather resistant: the rattan cane employed in our collection is susceptible to weathering and stretching if it becomes wet. We also advise protecting the bottom section of your chair with a seating pad.

What happens if my piece of furniture needs repair?

If your furniture needs repair, we recommend taking it to a furniture restorer or carpenter for maintenance. Each piece in our collection is durable and built to last; however, the rattan cane weave can sometimes break under certain circumstances. In this case, we recommend taking it to a restoration specialist who is experienced in repairing cane work.

Are my products covered by warranty?

We provide a one (1) year warranty on all our furniture against manufacturing defects and material failure. Please note that the warranty does not cover normal wear and tear of textiles, fabrics, or rattan cane. The warranty is applicable from the date of delivery. Kindly note that items that are customized in dimensions and beyond our standard product options are non-returnable. For any queries, please email us at info@studiobotanica.ch and we will assist you to the best of our ability.

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Sustainability

Is your wood ethically and sustainably sourced?

Sustainability for us means making furniture from aged recycled teak reclaimed and sourced from India's demolished colonial-era buildings. Old, solid timber provides more durability and accents our wood's grain. We also believe that antiquated timber is of superior quality to freshly milled timber. By using reclaimed timber that ranges from 70-90 years old, we ensure no living trees are harmed in our production process.

Does your workshop practice safe working practices?

Yes. We take every step possible to ensure that proper safety protocols are in place. Makers in our workshop operate in a safe, light and adequately ventilated workshop where they have ample space to work in a way that suits them best.  

 

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Quality Assurance

Is my furniture inspected before it leaves the workshop?

When inspecting our handmade furniture before delivery to your door, we asses the following criteria:

• Quality of craftsmanship: we rigorously inspect each piece to ensure it is well-crafted with attention to detail and that no corners were cut in the making of the piece.
• Stability: we make sure that the furniture is stable and that all of the components fit together securely.
• Durability: we test the furniture's durability to ensure that it will withstand wear and tear over time.
• Finish: we inspect the furniture's finish to ensure that it is even and smooth, with no imperfections.
• Color: we make sure that the furniture color is consistent and uniform throughout.
• Pests: we inspect each piece of furniture for termites and other insects that may cause damage. By inspecting all of these factors, Studio Botanica ensures that the furniture we are exporting to you is of the highest quality. If our order does not satisfy these criteria, it will not be approved for sale to you under any circumstances.

What quality assurance measures do you have in place?

Our quality assurance process begins with the initial manufacturing and assembly process. All components in the furniture are checked by master carpenters and the workshop manager for quality, and any defective items are repaired or replaced. Our furniture is then inspected for any signs of damage or wear. Once we decide the furniture is deemed acceptable for sale, we packed securely for export.

The next step in the quality assurance process is to ensure that the furniture is shipped securely and safely. This requires careful planning on our side to ensure that the furniture arrives to your door in good condition. All packing materials are of high quality, and protect your order from moisture, pressure, and extreme temperatures.

In the event a customer is not satisfied with their order quality, we try our best resolve the complaint amicably at all times.