In the Landmark workshop

The Landmark Trust is proud to use traditional skills to sensitively restore historic buildings. And our investment into the perpetuation of these traditional trades and techniques can be seen first-hand at our workshop in the Cotswolds.

Here our small furnishings team undertake some significant builds and restorations. From large, grand kitchens with in-built appliances that are accessible to all, to pocket-sized kitchens secreted underneath a spiral staircase. Whether it’s beautiful hand-built gates or restored doors and lanterns; many Landmark buildings feature something carefully designed and built by Cabinet Maker & Workshop Manager Mark Smitten, Bench Joiner Matt Cannell and Joinery Apprentice Rose Andrews.

A bespoke kitchen built for Calverley Old Hall

Thoughtfully designed and hand built

In our workshop, kitchens or wooden window shutters are designed; specially selected timber is sourced from our store or from reputable, local firms; a piece of furniture or cabinetry is built by hand using traditional techniques and then Mark, Matt and Rose install what they have made in a Landmark property.

Mark said, “We especially enjoy those ‘head-scratcher’ challenges that only come with a Landmark property: how can we create a use-able kitchen in an area no bigger than a wardrobe? How can I build an authentic-looking bedframe from just a broken piece of headboard? We don’t build things off-plan and while we may use some modern tools to create them, it all comes from using traditional skills. If Augustus Pugin walked in here now, he would know what we are doing rather than being mystified by computerised cutting technology and other modern pieces of kit. That is something we are proud of.”

Mark Smitten designed and built the library at The Grange in Ramsgate

Attention to detail

Matt said, “I recently went to a property which had a broken section of skirting board that needed replacing. I took a moulding of it, and then in the workshop created a new section that matched the existing skirting board exactly. This is something that perhaps would not have been done in a more commercial organisation as it would not have been deemed ‘worth’ it.”

It is the attention to detail, thoughtfully and thoroughly considered approach and navigating the fine balance between expectations and the history of the individual property that sets Landmark buildings apart.

A remarkable training environment

Landmark's Joinery Apprentice, Rose Andrews

The workshop is also a remarkable environment for passing on knowledge and skills. Rose said, “From the first week of my apprenticeship I was given every opportunity to use all the machinery and was involved in every project from the start.  I have worked both in the workshop and on site which has given me a broad knowledge of woodworking skills. Because we are a small team, I have had lots of one-to-one teaching time and have been able to learn from two very accomplished Cabinet Makers. I can't thank Mark and Matt enough."