Custom Furniture Notting Hill Kensington: Why I Chose Smithers

Notting Hill’s been home for a couple of decades, and in that time, I’ve refitted every room at least twice. Kitchens, studies, lounges, snug rooms—you name it, we’ve done it. And if there’s one thing I won’t compromise on now, it’s furniture. Not the mass-market stuff. I’m talking Bespoke Furniture London designers pieces, built by people who understand detail—and that’s where Smithers of Stamford make their entrance. I first came across Smithers, and I’ll be honest—I was sceptical.

But one look at their madcap cocktail cabinets and I was hooked. It wasn’t try-hard—just solid, confident design with a bit of bite. The first piece we bought was a brutalist sideboard for the dining room, and it just snowballed from there. Everything they make feels weighty, honest, and bold. I’ve since had them build a bespoke drinks unit in the snug, and every time, they’ve delivered. What you’re really paying for with Smithers is this: it’s not furniture—it’s architectural.

It doesn’t swallow the space or disappear into it. And unlike some luxury brands who phone it in, Smithers actually give a damn. I like that they work with independent workshops, but I also like that they’re approachable. You want a steel and brass bookshelf that curves into a corner? They’ll sketch it up in two days. You need leather that smells like an old Bentley interior? Done. I’ve sent friends to them in Mayfair and Holland Park and every single one