Robert Altman first discovered his passion for craftsmanship as a child, and his artistry has expanded as he focused on both the art and mechanics of construction. Through grade school shop classes where he learned about tools, materials, and techniques to a post-high school apprenticeship in which he specialized in traditional joinery under expert guidance, Altman was a master at furniture making by 19. That is when he decided to open his own, 1,200-square-foot shop.
“I dedicated myself to creating one-of-a-kind, high-end furniture. That passion for craftsmanship and design became the foundation of Robert Altman Design,” Altman says. “From there, I began showcasing my work at high-end craft shows, such as the Philadelphia Furniture Show and the Baltimore ACC Craft Show, some of which included wholesale days that helped me expand my reach. Eventually, my pieces were featured in galleries across the country, including in Minnesota, Chicago, Washington D.C., Kentucky and New Jersey. That early success set the stage for everything that followed.”
In his mid-20s, Altman worked for an exhibit, retail and museum fabrication company for approximately 25 years, which gave him manufacturing experience with large-scale companies and high-end retail brands. That alternate perspective expanded his skillset and drove him to combine personalization with cutting-edge technology. The experience also led Altman to meet and work with his current business partner, Sean Elchert.
“Sean is an incredible builder with a deep understanding of manufacturing, design and workflow. His ability to work with different types of wood and materials is second-to-none, and he’s got a real talent for keeping projects moving efficiently,” says Altman. “Sean and I worked together for over 12 years before starting Robert Altman Design, and his skills in delegation, and production are going to be even more valuable as we grow into a larger company.”
The genuine love for both the collaborative process and the final product that is foundational in each of Robert Altman Design’s custom pieces is evident in Altman’s philosophy that he approaches each project with dedication and precision.
“If it’s not good enough for my own home, it’s not good enough for yours,” he says. “I’m a perfectionist when it comes to my work because I believe that well-crafted pieces should last for generations. These aren’t just pieces of furniture or fixtures; they’re heirlooms. I take pride in knowing that what I create will become part of someone’s home, their life, their story. In a way, I leave a piece of myself in everything I build. That’s what drives me—the idea that my work will stand the test of time and be something my clients are proud to own.”
One memorable example of Altman’s one-of-a-kind, showstopping projects was a classic library-themed powder room. The space was transformed to look and feel like a warm, personal library—which is particularly imaginative when juxtaposed with the functionality of a bathroom. Altman describes sourcing with classic literary covers to create the illusion of shelves lined with old books
“The final result was stunning, and it became one of those projects that people just couldn’t stop talking about,” he recalls. “But honestly, every project we take on holds a special meaning. We put so much time and passion into our work that sometimes it’s hard to see them go. Each piece has a story behind it, and that’s what makes this work so fulfilling.”
Altman’s heightened level of creativity and artistry harmonizes with his structural expertise to create visual masterpieces that are functional and durable. That aspect designates Robert Altman Design as an industry stand-out, especially since it is authentically the heart of the brand. Throughout every design and installation—whether it’s custom furniture for a home or for a retail or commercial business—every Robert Altman Design piece is identifiable through its combination of traditional craftsmanship and innovation that result in the highest quality.
Today, Altman’s enthusiasm is greater than ever, as he continues to pursue the various concepts that inspire him most. He looks forward to showcasing epoxy charcuterie boards and cutting boards in craft shows this year, a type of construction he has been interested in since creating Lazy Susans and cutting boards in high school. As a foundational part of Robert Altman Design is that it is always evolving, Altman explains that the epoxy allows for customization in incorporating effects and colors, particularly with the highly figured wood that he handpicks.
“I’ve always loved working with my hands and creating things. There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking raw materials and transforming them into a custom piece of furniture or a functional work of art,” says Altman. “Ever since I was young, I’ve been a dreamer—someone who sees designs and shapes in my mind before they ever take form. Over time, that passion grew into a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, where every detail matters. Whether it’s fine woodworking, custom cabinetry or intricate design work, I love the process of bringing an idea to life—starting from nothing and shaping it into something tangible, meaningful and lasting.”
Robert Altman Design
Berlin Township
(856) 607-5615
RobertAltmanDesign.com
