Specialist Historic Architectural Joinery Projects

Bookcase for a Great Collector

A magnificent oak corner bookcase, crafted for a discerning collector, showcases a stunning collection of valuable books. From the first site visit to the client’s home, we designed the bookcase in his preferred style, giving him complete control over the commission. Hand-selected timbers and veneers were carefully chosen, while brass escutcheons, locks, and antique handles harmonise with the period of the lower cupboards. Reeded columns capped with roundels rise to the cornice, and each shelf features a beaded edge, supported by traditional scissor adjusters. Every detail reflects our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design.

Mahogany Door Sets

Recently commissioned to craft exquisite mahogany door sets, we hand-select only the finest timber, carefully choosing the perfect cuts for each component. Each door is constructed with full mortise and tenon joints to ensure exceptional strength and stability. The raised and fielded panels feature a striking flame mahogany veneer, contrasted with elegant mahogany crossbanding on a solid timber core, while ebonised mouldings frame the panels. Finished by hand with meticulous polishing and waxing, these doors combine timeless craftsmanship with refined, enduring beauty, making them a statement of quality and sophistication.

A Gentleman’s Library

This bespoke mahogany library by John Beavan transforms a room into a warm, immersive space of timeless elegance. Handcrafted from carefully selected timber and book-matched veneers, the library features a break-front cabinet, fluted columns, hand-turned roundels, and adjustable shelves. Brass escutcheons and restoration wibble glass preserve period authenticity, while secret doors behind faux books add subtle intrigue. Every detail reflects traditional cabinetmaking and refined design, creating a functional yet character-rich space that celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and enduring style.

Grand Oak Front & Interior Doors

At John Beavan Specialist Joinery, we create and restore grand oak front and interior doors with expert craftsmanship rooted in decades of experience in listed building and heritage joinery. Working with private clients, conservation specialists, English Heritage, and the National Trust, we bring historic features back to life using traditional techniques that preserve period details and original character. From bespoke joinery to heritage restoration, each door is carefully designed and crafted to reflect its era, combining timeless elegance with enduring quality.

Mahogany Dining Room Display Cabinets

A magnificent pair of bespoke mahogany dining room display cabinets, handcrafted from prime Brazilian mahogany, showcases the elegance of traditional British joinery. Featuring handmade astragal glazing and wibble restoration glass, these cabinets are polished to a rich, lustrous finish that highlights the natural beauty of the flame mahogany. Every detail, from the grain-matched panels to the timeless design, reflects exceptional craftsmanship and a commitment to furniture built to last for generations.

Grade II Listed Oak Mullion Window Restoration

At John Beavan Ltd, we specialise in Grade II listed oak mullion window restoration, preserving England’s historic architecture. Working with conservation architect Nick Joyce, we carefully repaired and reinstated the fragile timber, uncovering the original joints and craftsmanship beneath layers of paint. By preserving as much of the oak as possible, we celebrate traditional joinery and ensure these historic windows continue to tell their story for generations.

Shakespeare Gatehouse Doors at The New Place Stratford-Upon-Avon

In 2016, we created bespoke oak ‘Gatehouse’ doors for The New Place in Stratford-upon-Avon, marking 400 years since William Shakespeare’s death. Commissioned by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, the doors feature hand-studded bronze nails, forged bronze hinges, and a diamond-pattern design reflecting Elizabethan style. Crafted entirely in our Worcestershire workshop, we also made a table, cupboards, and fold-up stools for the gardens. Our handmade creations now form part of one of England’s most celebrated literary landmarks, preserving Shakespeare’s heritage for generations.