Who we are

Hi there. My name is James Atkins and I am based in Winchester, Hampshire. I am an apprenticed served carpenter and joiner of 30 years. Since leaving school this is what I do.

There is no definitive answer when one is asked what The Trade holds for them. It’s a matter of personal choice and perspective.

To some it maybe all about the money. To others it maybe a stop gap before something they see as better comes along. For a few it becomes a lifestyle a part of their identity. I guess I could be placed into this last category. Im the type that through all the highs and lows, the stresses and strains and the physical toll it can take on the body I cant do anything else its all I know. Its gets into your bones.

I remember staring in awe at all the old boys on site take out their tools. Cleaned and oiled and set to work. Watching them work, they just made it look so easy. From cutting on a roof to making a set of stairs it was poetry. They had an aura about them. I knew then that’s how good I wanted to be and still do. To have a good knowledge on all aspects of the trade. That was what being a carpenter and joiner meant to me.

For me personally the thought of being restricted to one aspect of the trade while skills you have built up throughout your life die away one by one would be like have part of me amputated. Im no fool. I know I have to make a living doing what I do and I will continue to do so. However, the attributes that this trade has taught me such as pride, patience, precision and respect will always be at the forefront of all I do.

I have always believed in respect of advertising that one should let the work do the talking. With this in mind through the use of social media I have had previous clients actually watch their furniture being built by viewing videos I have uploaded. In this respect you can truly see what you are getting. If you are so inclined why not have a look on Instagram and Facebook. Watch what I do and how I do it.