High quality, well-designed wardrobes with a service to match: that was the principle behind family-run business Neatsmith when it was launched by Andrew Nagel and his two sons, Philipp and Mathew 15 years ago. From a small industrial estate in London where the showroom was above the workshop, the business has grown to an 80-strong team of dedicated designers, cabinet makers and highly-skilled fitters. Now, there are five showrooms in and around London, including the flagship in Chelsea, where clients can browse the extensive collection, see the quality of craftsmanship first-hand and discuss potential projects.
While bespoke wardrobes are still the backbone of the business, over the years the Neatsmith offering has expanded to cater to the needs of its growing client base – and right now, that means a significant number (and rising) of enquiries asking for a made- to-measure home study. ‘Two important areas of development are technologies and finishes as we are dedicated to ensuring that the home offices we design are both highly functional and beautiful places to spend time in,’ says Philipp, citing wireless charging points and integrated pop-up sockets as ways of minimising wires and clutter. ‘A home office is a workplace but it needn’t be austere; elements such as the considered placement of warm LEDs within the units and use of leathers and fabrics for the doors or back panels all contribute to creating a welcoming space.’
While bespoke wardrobes are still the backbone of the business, Neatsmith has recently seen a significant increase in demand for its made- to-measure home offices
When it comes to bedrooms, Neatsmith not only designs, makes and installs wardrobes – from those for first-time buyers wanting practical yet stylish storage solutions to those commissioning large walk-in wardrobes and dream dressing rooms – they also create bespoke furniture and offer a colour-match service to complement any interior scheme. Nothing is mass-produced or pre-drilled, with each wardrobe component manufactured entirely by hand. Ensuring their clients are well-looked after is fundamental (both brothers have a background in hospitality), with design, quality and service always a priority. ‘Selling a brilliant product is one thing but the service has to match,’ confirms Mathew who oversees the manufacturing and installation side of the business while Philipp concentrates on the showrooms.
Current wardrobe trends include pairing traditional door styles, such as their Castille, Shaker and Luna designs, with modern finishing touches in brass – think handles and recessed door detailing. Integrating a distressed mirror into a classic door is another popular way to create a striking contrast. Aesthetically, the brothers name Italian design as their biggest influence but also insist that for a wardrobe or study to be a true success it needs to function efficiently. In other words, not just look stylish but have substance too. ‘Helping to organise and simplify our clients’ lives through design, bringing them beauty on the outside while maximising their storage space on the inside – that’s what’s at the heart of the Neatsmith brand,’ concludes Philipp.
