Business Details
Handcrafted Bespoke Furniture Hampshire
Established in 2010, Ripley Furniture Maker represents over three decades of expertise in handcrafted hardwood furniture. Our founder's career began with studies at Leicester Polytechnic's furniture design program, where he developed a deep appreciation for the Arts and Crafts movement and Shaker design principles. This foundation has informed our production of timeless pieces combining ergonomic precision with traditional joinery techniques such as through-mortice and tenon joints and hand-cut dovetails. We specialise in creating functional art using sustainably sourced European and North American hardwoods, employing low-energy manufacturing processes that complement our environmental ethos.With extensive exhibition history at venues like The Mall Galleries and Bankside Gallery, our work resides in both private collections and public spaces including Lambeth Palace. Our bespoke approach ensures each commission - from dining suites to ecclesiastical furniture - carries the distinctive signature of our craftsman's hand. Professional memberships with The Society of Designer Craftsmen and The Hampshire and Berkshire Guild of Craftsmen reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in furniture creation.
Services
Chairs
Tables
Cabinets
Rocking Chairs
One Off Commissions
Highlights and features
- 30+ years experience creating award-winning furniture
- Traditional joinery techniques with modern ergonomics
- Sustainably sourced European hardwoods
- Direct studio sales with no retail markups
- Author of 'Furniture Making: Projects and Plans'
Associations and certifications
- Society of Designer Craftsmen
- Hampshire and Berkshire Guild of Craftsmen
Services
Dining Chairs
Our dining chairs combine traditional craftsmanship with modern ergonomics. Available in three distinctive designs - Chiltern, Morton and Lake models - these chairs feature solid hardwood construction with options for solid wood or upholstered seats. Each piece uses sustainably sourced materials and traditional joinery techniques, ensuring exceptional durability and comfort that improves with age.
Rocking Chairs
The Bramley Rocking Chair represents over a decade of design refinement since its 2010 introduction. This award-winning design features laminated backs for flexibility, coopered seating for comfort, and hand-carved joinery. Each chair comes with a unique signature and stock number, available for purchase through galleries or direct from our Bramley studio.
Cabinetry
Custom furniture cabinets crafted using traditional woodworking techniques. Our cabinets feature through-mortice and tenon joints alongside hand-cut dovetails, constructed from sustainably sourced hardwoods. Designed to meet individual client requirements, these pieces combine functional storage with timeless aesthetic appeal.
Tables
Handmade tables available in console, coffee and dining formats. Our signature designs include extending refectory tables and cluster pedestal formats, all crafted using traditional woodworking methods. Wine tables remain a popular gallery item due to their elegant form and functional design.
One Off Commissions
Specialist commissions for public spaces including ecclesiastical furniture, seating and lecterns. Recent projects have included work for Reading University, Watts Gallery and Lambeth Palace. Each piece is individually designed to meet specific spatial and functional requirements while maintaining our distinctive design language.
People
Mark Ripley
Master Furniture Maker
With over 30 years experience, Mark studied furniture design at Leicester Polytechnic and later became a visiting lecturer. His work blends Arts and Crafts principles with Shaker influences, focusing on sustainability and traditional techniques. Author of 'Furniture Making: Projects and Plans' (2008).
Questions
What materials do you use in your furniture?
We use sustainably sourced European and North American hardwoods including oak, ash, cherry and walnut. Our construction methods prioritise traditional joinery over modern adhesives for durability.
Can you create custom furniture designs?
Yes, we welcome bespoke commissions for both domestic and public spaces. Recent projects include custom ecclesiastical furniture and office cabinetry designed to accommodate modern technology discreetly.
Is your furniture environmentally sustainable?
Absolutely. We source materials from sustainably managed forests and use low-energy manufacturing processes. Our traditional construction methods ensure furniture can be repaired and refinished over generations.
How can I purchase your furniture?
Pieces are available direct from our Bramley studio or through selected craft galleries. We regularly exhibit at venues including The Mall Galleries and Bankside Gallery in London.
Do you deliver furniture internationally?
Yes, we coordinate specialist delivery for major pieces and can provide packaging for safe shipping. Clients receive detailed care instructions and access to future refinishing services.
Are you formally accredited in furniture making?
Mark Ripley is a member of The Society of Designer Craftsmen and The Hampshire and Berkshire Guild of Craftsmen, reflecting our commitment to traditional craftsmanship standards.
