Marcus Sly : Cabinetmaker

About the Furniture

I create one of a kind pieces of handmade furniture that are both functional and beautiful works of art.  My designs are deceptively simple, relying on good proportions, subtle details and lovely timber for their effect. 

The furniture I make is generally contemporary in feel, while drawing inspiration from the Shaker and Arts and Crafts traditions.  I aim to create objects for my clients which have a real sense of presence, and that add soul, warmth and a human touch to wherever they are placed.

My furniture is genuinely handmade.  Sadly, most furniture which is advertised as handmade is nothing of the sort.  It is mass produced in factories using industrial machinery, and lacks the real character and detail that is found in things which are individually made by a craftsman.  I limit my use of machinery.  Much of the work is done by hand and by eye.  Work made like this has a sense of presence and "soul" which is generally lacking in mass produced items.  The difference between the feel and character of something handmade and something which has been mass produced is startling; handmade things help us to create beautiful, soulful and inspiring spaces in which to live, work and dream.

Marcus delivered the Bureau to our house and we were totally overwhelmed.  Even though we had seen photos on the website, it did not prepare us for how beautiful it was.  It fitted perfectly into the space and we have been really delighted with it.  James and Felicity Mark

Taking care of the wider environment is important to me, and I make sure that all my timber is either reclaimed or from sustainable sources.  I consider the environmental effect of my work practices and seek to minimize the environmental impact of my activities and the carbon footprint of my business.

Commissioning a Piece of Furniture

Commissioning a piece of furniture is an exciting and enjoyable experience, giving you the chance to own something which is both functional and a beautiful, unique work of art.  I make handmade built-in and freestanding furniture for clients over a large area of England and Wales or further afield by arrangement.

I approach design by listening very carefully - finding out a bit about you and your home, and exploring with you your hopes for the project until the right way forward becomes clear.  I want you to end up with something that feels uniquely yours.

At all times I take great care over the numerous little details that in themselves may seem insignificant but which, when added together, help to make something that feels pleasingly "just right", and is a lasting pleasure to use and  live with. 

Marcus immediately grasped the idea of what we wanted and worked closely with us to develop and improve upon that idea. From our perspective, the whole process went very smoothly. Marcus has a great eye for detail and the work was carried out meticulously. What we have now is just what we wanted: a functional cupboard that is beautiful to look at and use and enhances the space - Isabel Clare & Philippe Harari

If you would like to explore the possibility of having a piece of furniture made then do get in touch, giving me a rough idea of what you are after.  We can discuss ideas and possible budgets by email or phone.  If you would then like to explore things further I will usually visit you in order to get a clearer sense about what you are wanting, and the surroundings in which the furniture is to live in.  Following this visit I will provide you with some drawings of possible designs, and a written design proposal.