History

Merrill (Mario) Bennett, founder of Los Milanos, grew up in a home with Scandinavian teak furniture. He trained in New England, learning traditional woodworking methods, then moved to Panama and discovered the beauty of local woods.

The construction method used has its roots in the Shaker religion, where simplicity, strength, usefulness and quiet beauty were revered. The design lines are influenced by the gently eased edges and curves typical of Scandinavian style. The combination makes for solidly built furniture that allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through.

Ergonomics

The use of ergonomics, or human factor engineering, means each design is based on a series of prototypes. Each one of which is adjusted for comfort, safety and strength until an optimal form is produced.

Joinery

Joinery is the essential art of solid-wood construction. Extensive use of mortise and tenon joints for structures, half-blind dovetails and sliding dovetails for drawers and through dovetails for case pieces help create furniture that can withstand the test of time.