About Designed Woodwork
At Designed Woodwork, we create bespoke, handcrafted pieces that combine timeless design with meticulous craftsmanship. From custom cabinetry to unique furniture and intricate woodwork, our mission is to bring our clients’ visions to life with precision, care, and creativity.
Our journey is rooted in decades of experience, a passion for detail, and a commitment to excellence. Based in the heart of Somerset, we are proud to serve clients who value quality and individuality, creating pieces that stand the test of time.
John Dowle’s passion for woodworking ignited at 19 with an apprenticeship in carpentry and bench joinery. For nine years, he honed his skills as a carpenter and project manager on diverse UK building sites, specializing in renovations and restorations. A pivotal opportunity then took him to the hills behind Cannes, France, where his joinery expertise truly shone. He crafted everything from bespoke windows and doors to custom kitchens for a private villa, gaining invaluable experience in high-end residential joinery.
On returning to the UK, John further refined his skills as a cabinetmaker with a firm renowned for producing luxury cabinetry for West London homes. After years dedicated to perfecting his craftsmanship and developing a strong foundation in design and detail, he launched Designed Woodwork. He successfully ran the bespoke furniture business in London for seven years before relocating to Frome, Somerset. Today, the Designed Woodwork workshop in Frome creates exceptional handcrafted kitchens, fitted furniture, and bespoke cabinetry, proudly serving clients across Somerset and the wider South West with premium custom woodwork.