A Guide to Our Outdoor Furniture: Part 4, Our Fully Bespoke Benches
Posted on July 14, 2025
At Woodcraft, we often use the terms "standard" and "bespoke" to differentiate products. While the meaning may be apparent to manufacturers, the specifics of "bespoke" can be unclear to customers.
This series of blog posts explores the different levels of customisation, particularly within the realm of high-quality, handcrafted furniture. The goal is to clarify the spectrum of options available when seeking unique, hand-built pieces. Understanding these distinctions allows for informed decisions when investing in custom furniture.
Following on from our previous discussions:
A Guide to Our Outdoor Furniture: Part 2, Our Standard Range
A Guide to Our Outdoor Furniture: Part 3, Semi Bespoke Benches
This final post in the series takes a look at our Fully Bespoke option.
For years, the team has been called upon to translate clients' visions into reality, leveraging decades of experience to ensure project success. This collaborative approach caters to a diverse clientele, including garden designers, landscape designers, builders, and planners, as well as private individuals seeking unique, one-off solutions.
A key area of expertise lies in the creation of curved work, meticulously crafted to specific dimensions and styles. This specialised skill is increasingly rare, not only within the UK but also in other developed nations. The ability to execute complex curves with precision sets this service apart.
While detailed plans and specifications are always welcome, the process is designed to be accessible. A simple rough sketch accompanied by a few key dimensions and a contact telephone number is often sufficient to initiate a productive discussion. This flexible approach ensures that even the most nascent ideas can be brought to life.
The focus is on providing tailored solutions, offering a blend of technical skill and collaborative spirit. Whether it's a complex architectural feature or a personalised garden element, the team is dedicated to transforming ideas into tangible, bespoke creations.
The Family Monsters Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show
We were asked by Alister Bayford to produce a bespoke wooden bench for his entry garden into the RHS Chelsea Flower Show of 2019. The garden's oak bench served as a pivotal element, acting as the central gathering spot for families to reflect. This custom-made bench was meticulously crafted from a sequence of curved oak arcs and the shape subtly guided individuals to face each other, fostering interaction and the sharing of experiences.
The garden itself was conceived to encourage visitors to openly discuss their personal challenges. This was achieved by celebrating the inherent imperfections of the shrubbery and the natural elements incorporated into the garden's design. The wooden bench, characterised by its modern and minimalist aesthetic, presented an illusion of levitation above the surrounding boulders. Despite this visual effect, it provided a robust and stable platform for visitors to rest.
The garden won Gold Medal.
Bespoke benches made to match your current outdoor furniture
We have been entrusted to produce benches for 2 prestigious locations and specifically to match the style of their current benches.
Hampton Court Palace
In 2015, a significant project was undertaken at Hampton Court Palace as part of a major refurbishment of its extensive grounds and gardens. The palace, known for its rich history and stunning architecture, commissioned the production of two Victorian style benches.
These memorial benches were specifically designed for placement in the Kitchen Gardens, an area that reflects the historical significance of the palace's horticultural practices. The design of the benches was carefully crafted to match the existing style of benches already established in the gardens, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic that honours the palace's heritage.
London's Royal Parks
Twenty brand new slatted benches were installed in London's Royal Parks. These benches were placed in various locations throughout London, providing visitors with seating to relax and enjoy the parks.
The benches' design, originating from the Royal Parks own style of benches, is both visually appealing and practical. The slatted design facilitates airflow, offering comfort during warm weather, and the robust build ensures long-lasting use. Each bench was carefully made to harmonise with the natural environment of the Royal Parks, improving the atmosphere of these green spaces.
Bespoke bench for RHS Tatton Park
Bowles & Wyer, represented by designer Max Harriman, commissioned the creation of a bespoke bench for their "Calm in Chaos" exhibit at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park. The project's core objective was to design and construct a curved oak bench, measuring 1200mm in length and standing 450mm high. The design brief specified a 45-degree curve to complement the garden's gravel footpath, emphasising simplicity in style.
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The bench's curvature was meticulously crafted to align with the footpath's unique form. This design element aimed to enhance the garden's "off the beaten track" aesthetic, contrasting with conventional urban materials. The bench served as a focal point within the garden, offering visitors a space for rest and contemplation.
The "Calm in Chaos" garden, featuring the bespoke bench, was awarded the Silver Gilt Medal.
Bespoke Modular Perimeter Bench System
This modular bench system offers a flexible solution for park seating arrangements. Designed for adaptability, the system allows for the creation of customised seating configurations to fit various park landscapes.
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The system incorporates a range of components, including standard benches, individual chairs, and curved sections (both convex and concave). This variety enables designers to tailor seating layouts to the specific contours of a park area, such as around a pond or a bowling green.
Built with durability in mind, the system prioritises robustness and sturdiness, ensuring longevity and suitability for public spaces.
Bespoke Tables
Our craftsmanship extends beyond bespoke benches, encompassing the creation of custom tables for clients globally. These tables are meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate into various spaces, ensuring a perfect fit.
Constructed with the same commitment to durability as our benches, these tables are built to last. We believe they enhance their surroundings, adding both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
