TRL Handmade Furniture – individuality through craftsmanship

From the heart of Nottingham, an award-winning furniture manufacturer, renowned for its bespoke creations, is increasingly making waves across the UK industry – meet TRL Handmade Furniture …

In a world of mass-produced goods, TRL strives to offer a personal touch – and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship has seen the maker garner a wealth of industry awards and nominations, including SME News’ Best Handmade Bespoke Furniture Provider and StartUp Awards’ Rural Startup of the Year in 2023. So far this year, the business has won StartUp Awards’ Manufacturing & Engineering StartUp of the Year for the Midlands, and has been nominated for Great British Entrepreneur of the Year award.

“Our philosophy is simple, yet profound,” states founder and director, Tim Lawson. “We celebrate individuality through craftsmanship. With every piece we create, we aim to reflect the unique essence of our clients and the spaces they inhabit.”

Tim explains that TRL is committed to sourcing materials from independent local businesses, taking a sustainable approach that cements close bonds with a growing community of artisans and craftspeople. “From hand-picked oak to reclaimed timber, each material carries a story waiting to be told, enriching the fabric of our designs with authenticity and character,” says Tim.

“But our dedication to local sourcing goes beyond geography – it’s about storytelling. Every knot in the wood, every stroke of the brush, bears witness to the collaborative spirit that defines Nottingham’s artisanal landscape. By incorporating these elements into our designs, we invite homeowners and business owners to weave their own tales into the fabric of their spaces.”

From initial consultation to final brushstroke, TRL’s team works closely with clients to bring their vision to life. “We believe that furniture should be more than just functional – it should be a reflection of the owner’s personality and lifestyle,” Tim explains.

“At TRL, we understand that a house is more than just four walls – it’s a place where memories are made and stories unfold. That’s why we take pride in crafting furniture that resonates with warmth and authenticity. Whether it’s a cosy bench for the garden, a statement dining table for the home or a commercial property that needs to ooze personality, each piece we create is infused with soulful resonance that stands the test of time.”

TRL’s reach is expanding fast, as more and more nationals and independents alike embrace its unique offer, and five new agents have been recruited to help spread the word: Richard Jackson (Midlands and North Wales), Gary Birch (East of England and north of the Thames); Clive Loe (South London and Kent), Colin Boyce (south coast and South Wales) and Jonathan Huntsman (North East England and Cumbria).

“In a fast-paced world, TRL offers a glimpse of something timeless – the enduring beauty of craftsmanship and the personal touch of bespoke design,” Tim concludes. “As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us not forget the value of handmade goods and the importance of cherishing the stories that make our homes truly our own.”