Stokesley Architectural Joinery
Stokesley Architectural Joinery manufacture, deliver and install wooden windows, doors, staircases, conservatories, and orangeries throughout the UK. They boast over 41 years’ experience making bespoke products for both businesses and home owners.
As soon as I walked through (the wrong) door at their large industrial unit, I was welcomed with a smile. There was a hive of activity in the workshop, and a lovely smell of wood. I was then kindly shown the correct way to enter reception!
There I met owner Philip, who told me the story of Stokesley Architectural Joinery.
A practical start
“From a young age I was very practical and enjoyed working with wood and metal at school. An apprenticeship in joinery was a natural step when I left at 16. Not long after I’d qualified, I decided to start up on my own. In 1981, set up PRK Joinery. Back then I worked from a converted barn in Great Ayton.”
Moving on up
“By 1986 we needed somewhere bigger with industrial space. The Terry Dicken Industrial Estate had recently opened and it was the only one in the area. It was really small back then. Just a handful of companies. We found a spot and built our unit. By the turn of the millennium we needed even more space. Moving again to our current premises. Now our team is made up of 5 full time craftsmen and 2 part time fitters. My sons Guy and Jamie have also followed in my footsteps and now work as joiners here too.”
So what exactly is architectural joinery?
Making the house a home
“Architectural joinery essentially refers to the fabric of the building. Meaning the structural materials and finishes that enclose the interior of a building. Such as windows, doors, roofs, staircases etc. We work with all types of clients from private home owners renovating a property right through to commercial new home builders. Clients value our expertise. We advise on the designs that suit the style and position of their building.”
Let’s get some examples.
Fit for a King
“Strancally Castle is a grand castle in County Waterford, Ireland, built in the 17th century. We were already working for the new owner on a huge barn conversion in North Yorkshire when the castle was acquired in 2000. Impressed by our work, they contracted us to tackle all wood work throughout the 20,000 square foot castle. This included large-scale feature pieces such as ecclesiastical and gothic style windows, grand winding staircases, in situ bookcases and fitted kitchens. As well as everyday things like mouldings, doors, skirtings and architraves.”
Grand designs
“9 years later, we were wrapping that project up when we were recommended to a new client. Channel 4’s Grand Designs was about to feature the restoration of an old milner’s cottage in Northumberland. We were selected to create a range of windows to fit with the period of the property. Whilst also encompassing all the modern expectations like double glazing, security and weather resistance. The job we did was of such high quality that we were also contracted to produce all of the external fittings.”
This was a particularly fortuitous meeting for Philip as Stephan, the owner of the property, also operated a very successful marketing company.
Does exactly what is says on the tin
“Stephan had been trying to find a company that could create a specific type of window to a really high standard. But when he looked (and he looked hard) he never found us. He commented that our website and overall marketing strategy wasn’t serving us well. After long discussions and taking on board his suggestions we re-branded and became Stokesley Architectural Joinery. With a new brand image and website to match, we’ve never looked back.”
The sample windows in the reception area really do display the work of a good craftsmen. Solid, sturdy and of a beautiful quality and finish.
Let’s wrap up today with some feedback.
There if you need us
“I’d definitely recommend the Terry Dicken Business Park. We’re tucked away here in a nice quiet spot. We’re left to get on with our work without disruption. However if we need him, Mark the landlord is there. It’s a convenient spot as we also use some of the other tenants. Stokesley Hand Car Wash, Auto BodyCraft, Direct Business Supplies and Platinum Motors to name a few.
So whether you’re renovating a property or just fancy a change of scenery Stokesley Architectural Joinery can be found at Unit 39 / Unit 40, Terry Dicken Industrial Estate, Stokesley, TS9 7AE
Visit their website or Instagram page to see examples of their work.
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