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—we’ve had all sorts built in. 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 workshop pieces, built by people who understand detail—and that’s where Smithers of Stamford absolutely shine. My wife actually discovered Smithers, and I’ll be honest—I was sceptical.

But one look at their reclaimed industrial pieces and I was hooked. It wasn’t try-hard—just solid, confident design with a bit of wit. The first piece we bought was a brutalist sideboard for the dining room, and it just snowballed from there. Smithers don’t mess about. I’ve since had them create a custom shoe storage system that actually makes sense, and every time, they’ve delivered. Here’s what you get with proper bespoke furniture: it fits like a tailored suit.

It doesn’t swallow the space or disappear into it. And unlike some luxury brands who charge more for less, Smithers actually give a damn. I like that they aren’t afraid to push the design, 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