Robin Johnson sits down with furniture maker and designer Simon Thomas Pirie to discuss the reality of building a long term creative business in Britain. Simon shares his journey from studying fine art and discovering woodworking through Hook Park, to running a respected bespoke furniture workshop in Dorset for nearly three decades. The conversation explores furniture design, apprenticeships, CNC technology, kitchens, direct client work, workshop culture, scaling a creative business, and the pressure of balancing craftsmanship with commercial survival. Simon also reflects on leadership, hiring the right people, working with architects and interior designers, and why British furniture making struggles without proper industrial support.
Key Topics Covered
- Building a bespoke furniture business from scratch
- Hook Park and the influence of John Makepeace
- Fine art, furniture design, and creative career paths
- The reality of running a small workshop business
- Why direct client relationships matter
- Kitchens versus freestanding furniture projects
- CNC machines and modern furniture production
- Hiring apprentices and training young makers
- Workshop culture and team dynamics
- Expanding into larger workshop spaces
- British furniture making versus European manufacturing
- Creative burnout and staying inspired after 30 years
- Garden bench production and Chelsea Flower Show
- Working with architects and interior designers
- Legacy, craftsmanship, and long term creative work
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Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.
Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.
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Key Moments:
00:00 Growing up around woodworking
01:41 Discovering furniture making
02:48 Learning at Hook Park
05:20 Teaching furniture design
08:25 Starting the workshop
10:14 The struggle of solo makers
11:30 Kitchens and commercial projects
16:30 Design influences and style
21:50 Expanding the workshop
26:36 CNC technology and production
31:42 Workshop culture and apprentices
50:45 Problems with creative education
58:59 Becoming a furniture maker
01:02:57 Bespoke furniture versus products
01:08:03 Recycled timber projects
01:09:02 Advice to his younger self
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