Business Details
42 Years
experience
Historic Building Restoration Experts in Shrewsbury
Established in 1984, Traditional Carpentry & Joinery is a family-run business with deep expertise in restoring historic and traditional buildings. Our founder, Robert Steele, began his career in 1968, honing his craft through formal training and hands-on experience with local builders before specialising in conservation work for listed properties. Over decades, we have built a reputation for meticulous attention to detail, working closely with organisations like the National Trust and English Nature to preserve architectural heritage. Our team combines traditional techniques with modern best practices, ensuring repairs maintain historical integrity while meeting contemporary standards. In 2004, Robert's son Stephen joined the business after completing a rigorous apprenticeship and earning the prestigious William Morris Fellowship, which enhanced our capabilities in historic repairs.We pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions for both commercial and domestic clients, from bespoke joinery to sash window restoration. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our long-standing relationships with architects, conservation officers, and private clients across Shropshire. Every project, whether large or small, is approached with the same dedication to craftsmanship and client satisfaction. We prioritise minimising disruption during work and maintaining open communication throughout the process. Testimonials from satisfied clients, including St. Alkmond's Church and Walford Court Tea Room, attest to our reliability, skill, and passion for preserving Shropshire's architectural legacy.
Services
Sash window repairs
Timberframe restoration
Bespoke joinery
Conservation repairs
Oak porch construction
Staircase repairs
Historic mouldings
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years of combined experience in historic building conservation
- Our team includes a William Morris Fellowship recipient for outstanding craftsmanship
- Specialise in traditional methods for authentic timberframe and sash window repairs
- Proven track record with conservation bodies like English Nature and National Trust
- Family-run business prioritising client communication and minimal disruption
What people say
Considerable knowledge and skill
Conscientious and reliable
Made a huge difference
Excellent job
Much admired
Services
Sash window repairs
Specialist restoration of traditional sash windows using authentic materials and techniques. Our craftsmen repair damaged components while preserving original features, offering a cost-effective alternative to replacement. We ensure improved functionality and energy efficiency without compromising historical accuracy.
Timberframe repairs
Expert conservation of historic timber-framed buildings using traditional joinery methods. We replace decayed sections with matching timber, maintain structural integrity, and employ lime-based treatments to extend the lifespan of original materials while adhering to conservation guidelines.
Bespoke joinery
Tailored production of unique wooden elements from traditional mouldings to complete oak structures. Our craftsmen create period-appropriate replacements and new installations that seamlessly integrate with historic buildings while meeting modern requirements.
Conservation repairs
Comprehensive repair programmes for listed buildings focusing on preserving original materials. We employ traditional techniques like scarf joints and lime putty while balancing conservation principles with practical functionality for ongoing use.
Oak porch construction
Design and installation of traditional oak porches using green oak for natural durability. Each structure is crafted to complement historic properties, featuring hand-cut joints and period-appropriate detailing that enhances architectural character.
People
Robert Steele
Founder
Carpentry expert with 50+ years' experience, trained at Shrewsbury Technical College. Specialises in historic building conservation, having worked with National Trust and English Nature. Established the business in 1984.
Stephen Steele
Director
William Morris Fellowship recipient with advanced conservation skills. Trained under his father before joining the business in 1997. Specialises in sash window restoration and traditional repair philosophies.
Questions
What types of buildings do you specialise in?
We focus on traditional half-timbered and historic listed buildings, both commercial and domestic, across Shropshire.
Do you handle both small and large projects?
Yes, we undertake projects ranging from single window repairs to complete oak frame restorations.
What makes your sash window repairs unique?
We use traditional techniques with modern insulation improvements, preserving original materials where possible.
Are you qualified for historic building conservation?
Our team has decades of experience and includes a William Morris Fellowship recipient in traditional crafts.
How do you minimise disruption during work?
We cover furnishings with dustsheets and maintain clear communication to schedule work efficiently.
