Business Details
27 Years
experience
Bespoke Furniture Design & Craftsmanship in Edinburgh
Established in 1999, Stuart McKinven Furniture is a bespoke furniture design and manufacturing business rooted in the Scottish Borders. Our founder graduated from Glasgow College of Building and Printing with an HND in Furniture Design and Manufacture, building expertise through formative roles at Woodschool furniture collective before establishing his independent practice. We specialise in creating unique hardwood furniture tailored to client specifications, combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design principles. Our process involves close collaboration with clients to develop designs that harmonise spatial requirements, material choices and functional needs.Using sustainably sourced Scottish hardwoods, we employ handcrafting techniques to produce pieces that embody both client vision and maker expertise. Our work has been recognised through awards including the John Logie Baird Innovation Award and commissions for notable institutions across Scotland. With over two decades of experience, we maintain a commitment to quality, transparency and client satisfaction in every project undertaken.
Services
Bespoke furniture design
Custom woodwork
Hardwood furniture manufacture
Commissioned pieces
Scottish timber sourcing
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 23 years of bespoke furniture design experience
- Specialise in custom hardwood creations using Scottish timber
- Award-winning design and manufacturing expertise
- Collaborative client-focused development process
- Sustainable sourcing and traditional craftsmanship
Services
Bespoke furniture design
We create unique furniture designs tailored to client specifications through collaborative consultation. Our process begins with understanding spatial requirements, material preferences and functional needs before developing detailed plans. Using traditional woodworking techniques combined with modern design principles, we ensure each piece perfectly matches the client's vision while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
Hardwood furniture manufacture
Specialising in Scottish hardwoods, we transform carefully selected timber into enduring furniture pieces. Our manufacturing process combines steam bending, hand tool techniques and precision joinery to highlight natural wood characteristics. Each creation balances durability with artistic expression, resulting in furniture that develops character through use while maintaining structural excellence.
Commissioned pieces
We produce one-of-a-kind furniture items based on client briefs, from initial concept to finished product. Our commissioning process involves detailed discussions to refine design ideas, material choices and dimensional requirements. Whether for residential or commercial spaces, each piece is crafted to harmonise with its intended environment while reflecting the client's personal style.
People
Stuart McKinven Furniture
Furniture Maker & Designer
Graduated with an HND in Furniture Design and Manufacture in 1999, established his independent practice with Prince's Trust support. Combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, creating award-winning bespoke furniture for UK clients. Specialises in Scottish hardwoods and sustainable practices.
Questions
What types of furniture do you create?
We specialise in bespoke hardwood furniture including chairs, tables, storage units and unique commissions using traditional techniques combined with modern design.
Can I request custom dimensions?
Yes, all our furniture is made to measure according to your specific spatial requirements and functional needs.
What materials do you use?
We primarily work with sustainably sourced Scottish hardwoods like oak, elm and birch plywood, selecting timber for its quality and character.
How does the commissioning process work?
We begin with detailed consultations to understand your requirements, followed by design development, approval of drawings/models, then manufacturing and final delivery.
Do you work with international clients?
While based in Edinburgh, we've successfully completed commissions for clients throughout the UK through remote consultation and detailed planning.
