How Simon Thomas Pirie Built a Bespoke Furniture Business That Lasted 30 Years

Robin Johnson sits down with furniture maker and designer Simon Thomas Pirie to discuss the reality of building a long term creative business in Britain. Simon shares his journey from studying fine art and discovering woodworking through Hook Park, to running a respected bespoke furniture workshop in Dorset for nearly three decades. The conversation explores furniture design, apprenticeships, CNC technology, kitchens, direct client work, workshop culture, scaling a creative business, and the pressure of balancing craftsmanship with commercial survival. Simon also reflects on leadership, hiring the right people, working with architects and interior designers, and why British furniture making struggles without proper industrial support.Key Topics CoveredBuilding a bespoke furniture business from scratchHook Park and the influence of John MakepeaceFine art, furniture design, and creative career pathsThe reality of running a small workshop businessWhy direct client relationships matterKitchens versus freestanding furniture projectsCNC machines and modern furniture productionHiring apprentices and training young makersWorkshop culture and team dynamicsExpanding into larger workshop spacesBritish furniture making versus European manufacturingCreative burnout and staying inspired after 30 yearsGarden bench production and Chelsea Flower ShowWorking with architects and interior designersLegacy, craftsmanship, and long term creative workEnjoying the show?Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world.Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love.Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms.Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.Key Moments:00:00 Growing up around woodworking01:41 Discovering furniture making02:48 Learning at Hook Park05:20 Teaching furniture design08:25 Starting the workshop10:14 The struggle of solo makers11:30 Kitchens and commercial projects16:30 Design influences and style21:50 Expanding the workshop26:36 CNC technology and production31:42 Workshop culture and apprentices50:45 Problems with creative education58:59 Becoming a furniture maker01:02:57 Bespoke furniture versus products01:08:03 Recycled timber projects01:09:02 Advice to his younger self