About
ABOUT T+B WOODWORK
My name is James Mitchell, and I have been designing and building bespoke furniture since 2008. Born and raised in Ardingly, Sussex, I’ve spent my whole life surrounded by the countryside, craftsmanship, and traditional values that continue to inspire my work today.
From my workshop in Ringmer, just outside Lewes, I create high-quality fitted furniture tailored to each customer’s home and lifestyle. I specialise in real wood finishes, combining timeless materials with practical, handcrafted design to produce furniture that is made to last.
Every project is built with care, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality craftsmanship. I believe fitted furniture should feel personal — designed around the customer’s needs, not forced into standard sizes or styles. Whether it’s a fitted wardrobe, alcove storage, shelving, or any other design you have in mind, I work closely with each client to create something unique to their space.
Sustainability is also important to me. I aim to use responsibly sourced materials wherever possible and build furniture that stands the test of time, reducing waste and avoiding the throwaway approach of mass-produced alternatives.
As a local independent craftsman, I pride myself on offering a friendly, reliable service from start to finish. My goal is simple: to build beautiful furniture that fits perfectly, looks exceptional, and is exactly what the customer wants.
WHY CHOOSE T+B WOODWORK
Over 15 years of furniture-making experience, crafting bespoke fitted furniture since 2008
Local Sussex craftsman born and raised in Ardingly, with a genuine understanding of local homes and styles
All furniture handmade in our Ringmer workshop near Lewes
Specialising in high-quality fitted furniture tailored to your exact space and requirements
Beautiful real wood finishes that offer timeless style and lasting durability
Fully bespoke approach — every piece is designed around the customer, never off-the-shelf solutions
Friendly, personal service from initial design through to installation
Attention to detail and craftsmanship at every stage of the process
Sustainable mindset with a focus on responsibly sourced materials and long-lasting furniture
Honest, reliable local service with pride taken in every project
"Jay designed a tailored solution to our large hall way , understanding our taste & style . Jay panelled the walls , and made a large cupboard to suit our needs . Jay made the entire experience wonderful. He was professional and his suggestions were extremely helpful . Also clean & tidy ! Hardly taking any breaks."
Testimonials
TESTIMONIALS
Dee Francis / Brighton / Google review
"James is a very talented craftsman, who made us multiple built-in wardrobes, and bookcases. They fit perfectly, and look like they have always been here in our house. Not only is he talented, but he is also a wonderful person to work with, who listened to our needs with care and intent. We will keep calling him for our carpentry and cabinet-making projects."
Lydia Davis / Ardingly / Google review
"Jay completed a few jobs for us as part of some improvements we made in our new home. He was a pleasure to deal with, kept us updated regularly, was very professional, and has great attention to detail and pride in his work. We’re very happy with the finished results and would happily recommend him to others - in fact we already have! Thanks!"
Jenni Coleman / Lindfield / Google review
We remain delighted with the high quality and excellent finish of a number of projects James has completed for us, including large-scale carpentry for a circular tree seat in green oak and the timber frame for a garden room extension, as well as fine cabinet-making for bespoke console and coffee tables.
David Lamb / Horsted Keynes / Google review
"James provided an excellent customer service from start to finish of the project.
He is an exceptional communicator, being both warm and friendly, alongside being very open and clear about what was possible.
James provided me with examples of other work he had done so I could start to visualise how a cabinet would look, the kind of materials he would use and the different paint that would suit the cabinet. I found this incredibly helpful, and appreciated his support without feeling he was putting me under pressure to go in a particular direction.
He regularly sent texts and comprehensive emails with updates on designs and costs, checking all the way that I was happy with everything.
When James came my flat I immediately felt at ease with him and knew I would feel comfortable having him working in my home. He outlined what I could expect from his work and service, including time scales and ensuring he brought equipment to contain the dust as much as possible while putting the cabinet together.
I was very thankful for how clean he left everything after the cabinet was complete and the care he took moving his equipment around in quite limited space.
I was very impressed by James’s professionalism throughout. He worked very hard to a tight schedule and produced a beautiful painted cabinet at the end which fits perfectly into my living room.
I have no hesitation in recommending James’s craftsmanship, the service he provides and his genuine commitment to making beautiful furniture."
Karen Johnstone / Brighton / Testimonial