Glasgow Workshop Marks 40 Years of Distinctive Scottish Woodcraft and Design
Paul Hodgkiss Designs, a family-run studio renowned for its bespoke woodwork, is celebrating 40 years of creating iconic Scottish furniture and interiors. Established in 1986, the Glasgow-based business has built a reputation for sustainable craftsmanship and unique design, contributing to some of Scotland’s most recognisable bars, hotels, and distilleries.
Operating from a Southside Glasgow workshop, Paul Hodgkiss and his team of ten continue to focus on high-quality, sustainable Scottish timber. The company’s portfolio includes commissions for prominent venues such as Edinburgh’s W Hotel, Bowmore Hotel, Monkey Bar, Bouzy Rouge, Café Antipasti, Bar Bola, Meat Bar, and Palomino.
The firm’s expertise extends into Scotland’s drinks industry, having worked with Isle of Arran Distillers, Glenfiddich, Loch Lomond’s Luss Distillery, and Ben Lomond Gin. Their work encompasses bespoke kitchens, staircases, and architectural joinery for both residential and commercial clients across Scotland and internationally.
A landmark achievement came in 2014 when Paul Hodgkiss Designs was selected to craft 96 wooden medal podiums for the XX Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The team also produced the accompanying medal trays and 1,500 wooden quaichs presented to athletes, showcasing their craftsmanship on a global stage and solidifying the company’s national reputation.
More recently, the studio led the design of the new Luss Distillery, completed in 2025. Tasked with delivering a ‘Scottish Contemporary’ aesthetic, the team managed the interiors and exteriors of the main distillery and discovery buildings. Collaborating with experiential marketing agency Hot Pickle, they maintained a cohesive design language while overseeing builders, architects, and tradespeople.
The project featured innovative use of ancient structural materials and finishing techniques combined with local timbers. Notably, the design integrated the gin brand into the structural elements, including timber frames paired with frameless glass walls and the distinctive Beacon windows. Shortly after opening, the distillery earned a five-star quality rating from the Association of Visitor Attractions.
Reflecting on the company’s journey, Paul Hodgkiss said: “The last four decades have been an exciting and amazing journey. I’ve always loved the challenge of design, working with wood and other natural materials. Forty years on, I’ve witnessed some highs and lows, but thankfully mostly highs and I’m particularly proud that, in that time, we’ve welcomed 26 apprentices who have become the next generation of experts in wood design. To think I’d still be here, surrounded by a team of specialists blows me away. I’m incredibly proud to have remained loyal to the Southside of Glasgow and that’s rewarded me with such a talented team and loyal customers across the country that genuinely appreciates real craftsmanship, rather than the throwaway culture that is so present today.
“The bespoke projects have tested my skills and have evolved real blood, sweat and tears, but I think I take the greatest pride in knowing that our kitchen and other interior wood-based designs have transformed the homes of our clients. There’s something quite humbling in knowing that you’ve played a small part in turning a house into a family home that will last for generations.”
