At Salisbury Joinery, our journey spans five decades of craftsmanship, innovation, and family legacy. What started as a humble beginning in 1975 has grown into a trusted name in bespoke joinery, known for quality, precision, and personal service. Here's a look back at the milestones that shaped who we are today.
Salisbury Joinery was founded in 1975 by Jim, a passionate joiner with an eye for detail and a love for working with wood. With only basic tools, a small workspace, and an unwavering drive, Jim began taking on local projects, crafting everything by hand. His work quickly gained attention for its quality and durability. Jim wasn’t just building doors or staircases—he was building a reputation based on trust, precision, and pride in craftsmanship.
Those early years were tough but defining. Jim wore many hats—joiner, designer, delivery man, and business manager—pouring long hours into every job to ensure it met his exacting standards. He believed that every customer deserved more than just a product; they deserved a piece of workmanship that would last a lifetime. That founding principle—of care, quality, and craftsmanship—remains at the heart of Salisbury Joinery today.
Just four years in, 1979 was a pivotal year for Salisbury Joinery. We acquired our first workshop, giving Jim and his small team the space they desperately needed to meet increasing demand. This was also the year we invested in our first machine—a modest but vital addition that helped streamline production without sacrificing quality. It was a big step forward for a small company with big ambitions.
By 1981, it became clear that we’d outgrown our space yet again. We moved into a larger unit, reflecting both our growing customer base and the increasing variety of work we were taking on. These years were a blur of growth, learning, and expanding our capabilities—laying the groundwork for what would eventually become a full-scale joinery operation.
In 1988, another move was necessary. With a wider product range and a growing team, we needed better infrastructure and more space to keep up with our customers' needs. Each move brought new opportunities and challenges, but our commitment to quality never wavered. With each relocation, we refined our processes and pushed our craftsmanship further, continuing to build our reputation in both domestic and commercial joinery.
In 1999, we made our final move—into the purpose-built unit we call home today. This location was more than just a workshop; it was a space that allowed for creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. With better layout, upgraded machinery, and room to grow, this move marked the beginning of a new era for Salisbury Joinery—where tradition met modern production in harmony.
In 2008, we launched our sister company Denleigh.com, expanding our capabilities and exploring new markets. It allowed us to serve a broader range of clients while maintaining the same quality and values that define Salisbury Joinery. Working in harmony, both businesses now support each other—sharing knowledge, facilities, and the same drive for excellence.
In 2010, we made our first real step into the digital world with the launch of our website. While much of our business still came from referrals and returning customers, the website allowed us to showcase our work to a broader audience. It became a window into our workshop—a place where potential clients could see the quality of our joinery and get to know the people behind the products.
The website also marked the beginning of a more modern approach to customer service. With online galleries, contact forms, and design inspiration, we created a platform that made it easier than ever for customers to connect with us and start planning their projects. It was a small step that made a big difference in how we communicated our values and capabilities.
As the business grew, so did the complexity of the projects we took on. In 2014, we expanded again by introducing a dedicated paint and glazing workshop. This allowed us to bring more of the finishing process in-house, giving us greater control over quality and turnaround time. It also meant we could offer a complete package—from raw timber to fully finished product—all under one roof.
The following year, in 2015, we took a significant leap forward by introducing CNC software. While we remain rooted in craftsmanship, this modern technology enabled us to combine hand-finished quality with greater precision and efficiency. It was a game-changer that allowed us to take on more ambitious designs without compromising on detail.
In 2019, we achieved another significant milestone: passing official security testing for our joinery products. With customer safety becoming an increasing priority, we made sure our windows and doors didn’t just look good—they provided peace of mind. Achieving this certification meant that our products met rigorous industry standards for security and durability.
This accreditation reaffirmed what our clients already knew: Salisbury Joinery products are built to last. It also opened doors to new projects, particularly in the conservation and heritage sectors where high-performance joinery must blend seamlessly with period aesthetics and comply with modern regulations.
2024 has been a landmark year for us in more ways than one. First, we proudly launched our showroom—a hands-on space where customers can explore materials, finishes, and configurations in a more immersive way. It’s designed to demystify the joinery process, allowing clients to make informed decisions and feel part of the design journey.
We also received a prestigious conservation award this year, recognising our dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship in heritage and listed buildings. And after nearly five decades at the helm, Jim began a well-earned semi-retirement in 2024—handing more responsibility to the next generation while still offering his experience and wisdom behind the scenes.
Between 1996 and 2011, Jim's seven sons joined Salisbury Joinery through a mix of apprenticeships across joinery, spray finishing, customer service, and sales. Each brought something unique to the business—skills, ideas, and energy that helped shape our company culture. Many of them have grown into senior roles, mentoring the next generation of joiners and ensuring our core values endure.
In 2023, the third generation officially joined the team, taking on roles in the workshop, estimating, and design departments. They represent not just the future of Salisbury Joinery but also a continuation of the standards Jim set in 1975. With modern training and a deep respect for the company’s roots, they’re perfectly positioned to lead us into the next era.
From hand tools in a small workshop to showrooms and CNC machinery, Salisbury Joinery has come a long way since 1975. Yet the core of who we are hasn’t changed: a family-run business dedicated to craftsmanship, honesty, and customer care. Each generation brings something new, but the heart of our business—Jim’s vision—remains the same.
As we look to the future, we’re excited to continue this journey, taking on new challenges and opportunities with the same dedication that’s brought us this far. Thank you to all our clients, partners, and team members who have been part of our story. The best, as they say, is still to come.