Bespoke Design & Manufacture
Every WodenStel project starts with a design.
Tom develops bespoke pieces around the requirements of the space, the materials and the way the finished work needs to function. Projects range from kitchens and furniture to storage, interiors and individual commissions.
Whether you have architectural drawings, a developed brief or simply an idea you want to explore, the first step is to talk through what you are trying to achieve.
Working with WodenStel
When you work with WodenStel, you work directly with Tom throughout the project.
He handles the design and project management personally, working with private clients, architects and interior designers to develop the project and coordinate its manufacture.
The aim is to keep the process straightforward, with the person responsible for the design remaining directly involved from the initial conversation through to the finished piece.
What goes into a WodenStel project?
From initial design through to final assembly, every stage is handled with the same attention to detail.
EXPERTISE
WodenStel combines design expertise with a detailed understanding of metals, sheet-metal construction and modern manufacturing processes.
Tom has extensive experience in CAD design, with particular expertise in metals and sheet-metal construction and manufacturing. His practical understanding of how materials behave and how components are produced allows him to develop designs that are both visually considered and technically resolved.
DESIGN
Design is at the centre of every WodenStel project.
Tom is a CAD designer specialising in metals and sheet-metal design. He uses detailed 3D modelling to explore proportions, construction and detail, developing solutions around the requirements of the individual project rather than adapting a standard product.
MATERIALS
Steel and stainless steel are central to WodenStel's work, but they are not the only materials used.
Projects can combine steel with brass, copper, oak, stone and other materials, depending on the design and the requirements of the space.
Material choice is considered as part of the design, taking into account appearance, durability, construction and how the materials will work together.
Construction and manufacture
A good design needs to work as a physical object, not just as a drawing.
Tom's understanding of sheet-metal construction and manufacturing allows the design to take account of how components will actually be produced, joined and assembled. Depending on the project, this can involve laser cutting, folding, machining, welding and other specialist processes.
Project management
Tom manages each project directly, coordinating the design, manufacture and final stages.
Clients, architects and designers have a direct point of contact throughout the process, rather than dealing with separate design, production and project-management teams.
Finishing and assembly
The manufactured components are brought together in Tom's workshop for final finishing and assembly.
This is where surfaces, joints, fittings and other details can be checked and refined by hand. Tom personally carries out the finishing and assembly of every project.
How Your WodenStel project Comes to Life
At WodenStel, we make commissioning bespoke work straightforward and reliable. Whether you are an architect or interior designer working on behalf of a client, or a private client with an idea of your own, our process brings together considered design, technical expertise and practical manufacturing experience to create a finished piece tailored to your project.
Initial Enquiry and Consultation
The process starts with a conversation about the project, the space and what you are looking to achieve.
You may already have architectural drawings, a detailed brief or a clear idea of what you want. Equally, you may simply have an idea that needs developing.
Tom will discuss the scope of the project, what will be involved and the likely timescale before putting together a proposal.
Agreeing the project
Once the scope of the project has been established, the project cost and payment schedule are agreed before design work begins.
An initial 25% payment is made to commence the project. This covers the design and development stage, allowing Tom to devote the necessary time to fully developing the project before it progresses to manufacture.
Developing the design
Once the project has been agreed and the initial payment made, Tom develops the design in CAD, working through the details and refining the proposal with the client.
Where an architect or interior designer is involved, the WodenStel design can be developed alongside the wider project.
The design is developed around the specific requirements of the project, considering dimensions, proportions, materials, construction and how the finished piece will function within the space.
Design sign-off and manufacture
When the design has been fully developed, the final details are agreed before manufacture begins.
The next 50% payment is made at this stage, allowing materials to be ordered and manufacturing to proceed.
Tom then coordinates the manufacture of the individual components through trusted UK suppliers and specialist manufacturers, using the processes appropriate to the project.
Finishing and assembly
The manufactured components are brought to the workshop for final finishing and assembly.
Tom personally checks the components, carries out the finishing and assembly, and makes any necessary final adjustments before the completed piece is signed off.
Final payment, delivery and installation
The remaining 25% balance is payable before delivery or on completion of delivery, depending on the arrangements agreed for the project.
Completed work can be delivered and installed by WodenStel where required. The installation approach will be discussed and agreed as part of the project planning.
Ready to begin your bespoke project?
Frequently asked questions
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As early as possible is usually best, particularly if the project is still being designed. It is much easier to consider bespoke work as part of the wider project than to try to fit it in afterwards.
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Not necessarily. If you already have drawings, they are useful, but an initial conversation is enough to start exploring an idea.
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Yes. Tom regularly works alongside architects and interior designers, developing the WodenStel elements of a project in conjunction with the wider architectural or interior scheme.
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WodenStel designs and develops bespoke kitchens, furniture, storage, interiors and individual commissions in steel and other metals.
The work is not limited to these categories, so unusual or one-off projects are also welcome.
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Each project is priced individually based on its scope, materials, design requirements and manufacturing requirements.
The project cost and payment schedule are agreed before design work begins, so you have a clear understanding of the cost from the outset.
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Designs sometimes develop as a project progresses. If you want to make a significant change to the agreed design, Tom will discuss the implications with you before any additional work or costs are incurred.
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Changes can sometimes be accommodated once manufacturing has begun, depending on what is involved. Tom will discuss the options and any implications with you before proceeding.
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WodenStel is based in the Bristol area and works with clients and design professionals across Britain
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Installation can be arranged depending on the project. The most appropriate approach will be discussed during the design and planning process.
Your WodenStel project starts Here
Whether you have a detailed brief, architectural drawings or simply an idea you would like to explore, the first step is to talk to Tom.
He can discuss what you are looking to achieve, the scope of the project and how WodenStel could help.