About Hykel Carpentry:
The Fusion of Art and Function
Hykel Carpentry is the solo venture of me, Alex Hykel, based here in Bristol. I specialize in the design and construction of genuinely bespoke cabinets, tables, and unique pieces of furniture. My approach is defined by an exceptional, three-fold identity: Artist, Craftsman, and Cabinet Maker. This unique combination allows me to create functional furniture that not only serves its purpose perfectly but also transcends utility and becomes a piece of contemporary art for your home or business.
The Maker: A Blend of Disciplines
The journey of Hykel Carpentry begins with a dedication to both form and integrity. As an Artist, I approach every commission with an eye for aesthetic beauty, challenging the traditional boundaries of woodworking design. This means focusing on clean lines, unexpected material combinations, and careful use of decorative elements. I believe furniture should enhance the environment it inhabits, not merely occupy it.
Beyond mere aesthetics, I hold a strong belief that art has a vital role to play in fostering an ecologically sustainable world. My creative work is designed not just to be beautiful and enduring, but to actively help raise awareness about the environmental impact inherent in consumer choices. By choosing bespoke, locally crafted furniture made from sustainable materials like Valchromat and carefully selected woods, clients directly reject the polluting cycle of disposable, mass-produced items, transforming their home purchases into a conscious commitment to sustainability.
As a Craftsman, I am deeply committed to construction methods that ensure longevity. Every joint carefully made, and every detail is considered. I reject the mass-produced, disposable nature of much modern furniture in favour of creating enduring pieces built to last generations.
Finally, as a Cabinet Maker, I bring the precision and technical skill required to translate artistic vision into practical, we designed, perfectly fitting solutions.
Materials and Methodology
My small, but expertly equipped workshop and studio serves as the hub where these disciplines converge. I take pride in the careful selection of materials, ensuring both beauty and environmental responsibility.
I meticulously craft custom pieces from a diverse selection of beautiful natural woods, chosen for their grain, durability, and character. This often includes locally sourced hardwoods, reclaimed timber or sometimes even sustainably sourced exotic species.
In addition to traditional timber, I frequently utilize Valchromat, a modern, sustainably produced, man-made board. Valchromat offers a unique density, color depth, and moisture resistance, allowing for designs that are vibrant, durable, and structurally superior. The combination of classic wood and innovative materials like Valchromat is central to my design philosophy, enabling pieces that are both timeless and forward-thinking.
The Bespoke Process
My unique design philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of bespoke creation. I don't just build furniture; I build solutions. The process involves close collaboration with the client to understand not just the dimensions of the space, but the specific lifestyle, storage requirements, and aesthetic goals.
This dedication ensures that every cabinet and table successfully blurs the line between well-built, enduring functional furniture and true artistic expression. Each project is perfectly designed to fit your unique space and exact needs, eliminating the compromises inherent in off-the-shelf furniture.
When you commission a piece from Hykel Carpentry, you are making an investment. You are not just buying an object, but acquiring a custom piece that is the culmination of my professional journey. It is a piece that is perfectly designed to fit your space and needs, embodying my dedication, design, and artistry for years to come.
My Mission
I am an Artisan Carpenter who designs and builds cabinets and tables, alongside creating decorative wooden artwork. I take great care to ensure that everything I make, is meticulously crafted to an exceptionally high standard.
I predominantly work with sustainably sourced Hardwoods, Reclaimed Timber, Valchromat.
As an environmentally aware Craftsman, I am deeply concerned about the ecological impact that the use of resources has on our world and actively seek to learn how to create items of beauty that have a positive impact on the planet.
I am setting out to discuss the materials I use on my website and social channels and continually strive to develop a practice that is not only sustainable, but works towards being a bio regenerative business that contributes to a healthy planet for plants, animals and humans alike.
My Story
About 9 years ago, an opportunity arose to work for a friends building company, I decided it was something I wanted to do. I gained a huge amount of experience across a range of trades including decorating, plastering, tiling, general first and second fix carpentry, and kitchen and kitchen fitting. By the end of 3 years I had gained a workplace assessed NVQ2 in site carpentry, which then allowed me to get a CSCS card and to work for other companies. I worked for a while as a Wardrobe fitter for Sharps Bedrooms, and then on various building sites as a carpentry sub contractor. During that time I took and passed the SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) qualification, did an Asbestos Awareness Course and passed a qualification that allows me to fit Fire Doors and Sign them off.
It was while I was fitting wardrobes in a house on Royal Crescent in Bath, that I realised that there was a possibility I could set up my own carpentry company, and then gradually invest in setting up a joinery.
So I went for it, I bought a Clean Air Zone compliant van on credit, spent a huge amount on tools, and worked as an all round carpenter taking on each and every job I could get my hands on. I worked like crazy, and alongside all the hanging doors, and fitting kitchens, I gradually built up a client list of customers who wanted bespoke fitted furniture. Bit by bit I managed to keep on investing in joinery equipment and refining my craft.

How can I help you?
I'm friendly and easy going. If you would like to send me a message, or give me a call, I'd be happy to talk through with you the project you have upcoming. With no pressure from me, we could discuss your requirements, and then establish if I am a suitable craftsperson for the job.









