Behind the Scenes: Re-planking an 1895 Gentleman’s Cruiser in Utile

Recently, our team undertook the meticulous re-planking of an 1895 gentleman’s cruiser. This classic craft, originally built in the golden era of traditional boatbuilding, has weathered more than a century on the water. Our task was to assess the hull and rectify any planking issues, readying the craft for an upcoming survey and ensuring continued safe cruising for our client. Time had taken its toll, and it was clear she needed significant structural attention—particularly below the waterline.

Why Utile?

For the re-planking process, we chose Utile — a durable, stable, and beautifully grained hardwood known for its excellent performance in marine environments. As a sustainable alternative to mahogany, Utile offers outstanding resistance to rot and movement, making it an ideal choice for structural restoration without compromising the boat’s classic appearance.

The Re-planking Process

The first stage of the project involved carefully assessing the hull and removing the old, deteriorated planks, many of which had become brittle or waterlogged over time.

Each new plank was shaped by hand, using traditional techniques to ensure a precise fit along the hull’s complex curves. Utile’s workability allowed us to achieve tight seams and a smooth, clean finish, while marine-grade fastenings secured the new structure firmly in place.

Throughout the process, we paid close attention to the finer details—honouring the boat’s original craftsmanship while enhancing her structural strength with modern methods where appropriate.

Back On The Water

Now securely re-planked in Utile, the 1895 cruiser is ready to face many more years on the water. This project reflects our commitment to preserving maritime heritage through skilled restoration, using materials and techniques that stand the test of time.

Whether it’s restoring a 19th-century vessel or maintaining a modern-day cruiser, we bring the same level of care, precision, and respect for craftsmanship to every boat that passes through our yard.

Interested in classic boat restoration or bespoke maintenance? Get in touch — we’re always happy to talk boats.

Homes & Heritage: Our Process from Consultation to Design and Install

Design-led joinery with a deep respect for place and period

At Sutherland Joinery, our work on listed, ecclesiastical and historic buildings is guided by more than just skill. We have a real respect for the character of a place, the craftsmanship of the past, and the people who live with and care for these buildings today. Our process is built on collaboration, precision, and a deep understanding of traditional joinery, ensuring every project we undertake is as thoughtful as it is enduring.

It begins with consultation. Whether you're a homeowner, architect, or heritage contractor, we start by listening. We take the time to understand the history of your building, its architectural style, and your vision for the project. From Georgian townhouses and Victorian cottages to listed churches and public buildings, every context is different — and we tailor our approach accordingly. This is also the stage where we might talk about some initial options, timeframes and budget as well as any logistical considerations.

Our design phase is highly collaborative. We work closely with our clients whether they’re an industry professional such as an architect, interior designer, builder or whether they’re a private owner of a home. Using detailed CAD drawings, we ensure every element is carefully considered — from proportions and profiles to how new joinery will blend with existing features. Where appropriate, we research historical details or reference period guides, ensuring authenticity at every step.

Material selection is a vital part of the process. We are happy to make suggestions that are fitting for their use and suit the budget. We often use Oak, Utile, Walnut, Tulipwood and various species of Pine as well as using sheet material and veneers. Finishes, ironmongery, and decorative details are chosen with the same care, always aiming for a natural fit with the fabric of the building and its woodwork. We have a number of trusted suppliers we tend to use for all of our materials.

Usually we construct as much as we can in our fully equipped workshop in Trowse, just on the outskirts of Norwich. We’re always happy to take visitors by appointment and will usually update our clients as the work progresses.

When it comes to installation, our team works with precision and respect for the surrounding environment. We coordinate closely with other trades and ensure minimal disruption — especially important when working on lived-in homes or sensitive heritage sites. We’re normally the tidiest trade on site.

And once the work is complete, we don’t disappear. Our aftercare service ensures your joinery continues to perform beautifully for years to come. Whether it’s advice on maintenance, refinishing, or small adjustments over time, we remain a trusted partner long after installation.

In heritage joinery, the smallest details carry the greatest weight. At Sutherland Joinery, we’re proud to offer a process that balances tradition with technical skill — helping our clients bring new life to old buildings, with care and craftsmanship that lasts.

Project in Focus: Traditional Picket Fence with Ledged and Braced Gates

Crafted with Care, Inspired by Heritage

At Sutherland Joinery, we believe true craftsmanship lies in the details — in the materials we select, the traditional techniques we uphold, and the thoughtful collaboration we bring to each project. Our recent commission to create a traditional timber fence and pair of handcrafted gates brought all these elements together, with a design rooted in historic joinery practice and carefully adapted for modern longevity.

The project consisted of two bespoke gates: one a tongue and groove panelled framed, ledged and braced gate, and the other a lighter picketed ledged and braced design — both referencing the practical and enduring styles and joinery methods detailed in George Ellis’ Modern Practical Joinery, first published in 1902. This iconic joinery book is still very relevant today when constructing pieces that are similar in form and technique to that of what would have been made a century prior.

We worked closely with the client to refine a distinctive picket profile based off of a historic catalogue. Once the shape was agreed, we created a jig to replicate it consistently across every picket — a modern tool used in service of traditional design.

Although a picket fence built at the turn of the 20th century would have likely been constructed from pitch pine, for this fence we chose douglas fir as a readily available similar alternative . This resilient softwood offers dimensional stability and natural resistance to decay, making it ideal for joinery exposed to the elements. To further protect the timber, each component was treated with a high-performance wood preserver before being finished with Jotun Demidekk paint in Ice Plant Green — a soft, heritage-inspired tone. This Norwegian-made coating is known for its long-lasting, flexible finish, providing outstanding weather protection.

Attention to detail continued through to the ironmongery. Traditional cast iron hardware was selected, including forged Suffolk latches and ‘H’ hinges by ‘from the anvil’. Although this hardware looks traditional, it benefits from a durable powdercoated finish and black stainless steel hardware.

This project represents what we value most: joinery that honours traditional methods, is built to last, and is tailored with care to the client’s vision and the site’s character. With heritage at its core and craftsmanship in every joint, it’s a quiet but confident contribution to the landscape — one we’re proud to stand behind.

Picket fence with picket ledge and brace gate, painted in Ice Plant Green.

Frame, ledge and brace gate. Painted in Ice Plant Green.

Behind the scenes: All Saints Church - Stanton, Suffolk.

Crafting a Kitchen and Serving Counter to Echo Centuries of Heritage

Nestled in the heart of the Suffolk countryside, All Saints Church in Stanton stands as a testament to centuries of devotion, community, and craftsmanship. With its origins dating back to the 14th century, the church’s flint stone walls, Gothic arches, and timeworn timber beams speak of generations past. When the opportunity came to contribute to this historic building, we approached the project with the reverence and care such a setting demands.

Working from designs developed by the project’s architect and in close collaboration with a specialist heritage building company, our role was to design and build a bespoke kitchen and serving counter that would serve the needs of a modern congregation — without disrupting the centuries-old fabric of the church.

The solution was solid oak joinery, crafted to echo the character and detailing of the church’s medieval stonework but in a somewhat minimalist fashion. Oak was the natural choice — not only for its timeless beauty and durability, but also because it has been used in English ecclesiastical interiors for over a thousand years. The cabinetry’s profiles were carefully considered to reflect the rhythm of the church’s stone corbels and arches, while hand-finished joinery ensured a softened, aged feel that would settle seamlessly into its historic surroundings. The oak for this project, much of which is quartersawn for stability, was sourced relatively locally from the independent Thorogood timber merchant.

Every element was made with the intention of longevity — a quiet continuation of the church’s enduring narrative. Made with precision and constructed to last, the kitchen and serving counter are now used for all sorts of functions by the thriving community in this large village. They provide hospitality in a way that feels natural and respectful — a place to gather after services, to share conversation, and to build community, just as the church has done for generations.

This project embodies everything we believe in at Sutherland Joinery: craftsmanship with purpose, design rooted in place, and joinery that honours both history and function. We are proud to have played a part in this chapter of All Saints Church, and prouder still that our work will be looked after by the parish and last for many future generations to use and see.

How to choose the right timber for period accurate windows

Restoring and replicating period windows is something that requires layers of consideration based on a number of factors. For heritage homeowners, conservation officers, and architects, selecting the correct timber is a critical step that influences both the longevity and authenticity of a restoration. At Sutherland Joinery, we specialise in crafting and restoring timber windows that respect historical details while standing the test of time.

Here’s what to consider when choosing the right wood for your period window project.

1. Considering the Original Material

When restoring listed or heritage properties, it’s essential to maintain the architectural integrity of the building. This sometimes means using the same or a similar species of timber as the original. Common historical choices include:

• Pitch Pine: Frequently used in 18th and 19th-century windows for its availability and ease of working.

• Oak: Found in older, high-status buildings; prized for its strength and traditional character.

• Douglas Fir: Valued for stability and relatively straight grain; a common replacement in conservation work.

Some timbers will have been easier to source of a certain quality a century or two ago, and with our modern globalisation some timbers from across the globe have become more available than what were common native species in the 19th century. We also now have available to us a variety of modern modified timbers. So although looking at existing materials used is a good starting point, it isn’t always the best thing to use for a replacement window.

If you're unsure of the original material we can identify it and suggest the best match.

2. Durability and Resistance to Weather

Timber windows, especially in the UK’s damp climate, need to resist rot and movement over time. Hardwoods generally outperform softwoods in terms of longevity, but treatment, paint finishes, and proper joinery also play vital roles.

• Accoya (modified softwood) is a modern, sustainable choice that is essentially a pine that has undergone a chemical process to increase its durability and stability. It is easy to work with and is incredibly durable (comparable to oak).

• Sapele or Utile (hardwoods) are often used in restoration projects for their durability and fine finish, while still being sympathetic to original features.

3. Workability and Finish

Restoration requires precise detail to match mouldings, glazing bars, and profiles. The timber you choose should take a fine finish, hold paint well, and be easy to work with for traditional joinery techniques.

• Utile and Accoya are ideal in this regard, allowing for crisp mouldings and take paint well.

• Oak offers a rich traditional finish but is more challenging to work due to its hardness, generally we only suggest oak if leaving untreated or if using a clear finish and desire oak for aesthetic or legacy reasons

4. Sustainability and Sourcing

With growing environmental concerns, responsibly sourced timber is more important than ever. All the wood we use is  FSC or PEFC certified, and sourced from sustainable forests, or is sourced from a local sawmill where they use trees that had to be cut down for reasons other than producing timber.

We can provide documentation on our timber and its origins for listed building consent or conservation area requirements.

5. Cost vs. Longevity

While hardwoods and engineered timbers may come at a premium, their superior performance and reduced maintenance can save money over time. For many restorations, Accoya offers the best balance of performance, and longevity, especially when paired with high-quality paint and glazing sealants.

Final Thoughts

Every period property is unique—and so is every window. Choosing the right timber requires a balance of historical sensitivity, material performance, and future-proofing. At Sutherland Joinery, we combine years of experience in heritage joinery with a deep respect for traditional materials and methods.

Need advice on your own restoration project?
Contact us today to discuss timber options, arrange a site visit, or request a detailed quote.

From Cabinetry to Curves: How Boatbuilding Enhances Joinery Skills

At a certain point in my career as a joiner I made the decision to train up on the job as a boatbuilder, I’ve always sailed and have a passion for boats but the real reason for me wanting to make this transition was to give myself a challenge that I was able to learn from and that would develop my skills as a wood worker. 

I started off working at Star Yachts, where Win and the team gave me the time to develop a whole new catalogue of skills to add to my existing knowledge of woodworking. I went on to work at Spirit Yachts and then Oyster Yachts where I was able to hone these skills to a very high standard working the more technical elements on large wooden yachts in build.

Now that a large part of my work is in joinery again it is possible to reflect on how spending years working on wooden yachts has greatly developed my skills and knowledge when it comes to designing and constructing architectural joinery and cabinetry, especially when dealing with older and less regular buildings.

Sculptural working

It is very common in our work to come across difficult shapes - they may be arch top windows, bow fronted doors, challenging curves on bannisters or simply difficult scribes along bumpy walls. The measuring and marking can be a challenge in these instances, but knowing how to make a piece of timber take on a complex shape or tight curve is something that is commonplace in the boat building world. Having spent so long as a boatbuilder i’ve become confident in producing a replicating even the most difficult of shapes using some of the following methods:

• Laminating - gluing together thin layers of timber which are clamped or fixed around a curve

• Steam bending - heating and steaming timber increases it’s elasticity and allows wood to be set around shapes that it wouldn’t otherwise be able to bend around without splitting

• Tooling - Using tools such as a compass plane, a spoke shave, or a rasp in order to slice and nibble small amounts of material off your stock to make a very accurate finished shape.

However, learning to ‘sculpt’ wood through boat building didn’t just improve my catalogue of techniques, but it developed my eye and feel for a smooth or ’fair’ curve.

Jigs and Machines

I tend to see curved pieces in two categories:

• Simple curves - whereby the piece is curved on one plane (as is common on arch top windows)

• Complex or compound curves - whereby the piece is curved on two planes (as is common on handrails and many parts of a wooden vessel)

Using modern machinery is essential to produce both types of curved pieces for the sake of efficiency and to help aid in replication (even if final finishing is achieved with hand tools), this usually requires the making of a jig or a template to be used in conjunction with a machine or power tool such as a router, spindle moulder or bandsaw.

Because almost every element on a boat is curved, I have picked up numerous techniques from fellow employees as well as from books that allow me to create complex and often repeatable curved pieces with relative ease.

Measuring and marking

As previously mentioned, when doing curved work it is not only the sculpting that is challenging but also the measuring of corresponding shapes and the marking up of the piece. It may be the case that an arched fan light window needs to be made to fit a gap in the masonry above a doorway and this will require both the measuring of the gap that is present and the marking out of the workpiece. There are many instances where this is the case whilst working on older buildings, not only where there is a curved piece as part of the design, but where the building has moved out of true and requires shaped parts to fit cleanly into its fabric.

Whilst working as a boatbuilder I learned that every curve on a vessel is based off of straight lines, be it the centre line, the various water lines, or just off of level or plumb. When you’ve got your head around the principles of this you can work off of straight lines when building a piece and also work back to straight lines when taking measurement.

Some of the techniques that cross between boatbuilding and joinery are listed below:

• Spiling - using a block of a fixed width or compass to follow around a shape to transfer a mark to an adjacent board

• Templating - most commonly done by using short strips of wood and joining them with a glue gun or stapler to mimic a shape, sometimes this shape is then spiled onto

• Using a fairing batten - the use of a thin strip of wood, bent to intersect points on material below to create an even or ‘fair’ curve that can be traced around

• Tick stick method - A complex but highly effective method of transferring intricate internal curved or irregular shapes

Restoration

It’s not uncommon for us to undertake repairs, especially on external joinery where replacement isn’t required - this is a point that has a crossover with boatbuilding whereby replacement isn’t possible and repairs are annual. Because repairing woodwork on classic vessels is so common, the industry has developed thousands of techniques that I have picked up on whilst working on boats such as scarfing and dutchman joints. 

I have also gained the skill in being sensitive to the fabric of woodwork and in the careful dissection of components without damaging the piece more than necessary.

Joinery in harsh environments

A boat is subject to the harshest conditions that any woodwork would be expected to withstand and thus many considerations must be taken into account by the boatbuilder and the naval architect in order to prevent rot from forming, and warping from happening. Steps are taken to design ways for water to fall off the woodwork rather than to sit stagnant, and for the structure and makeup of the pieces to be incredibly dimensionally stable.

Although joinery on terra firma doesn’t generally have to withstand quite as destructive conditions as those experienced at sea, I generally put a higher emphasis on protection from the environment into the joinery I design and make than some might. Some of the methods we use are as follows:

• Sloping mouldings and drip rails

• High quality glues and sealants, often using cascamite or epoxy on external joinery

• Suitable timber species for their use

• High quality coatings and finishes

When it comes to working on older buildings and in woodwork in general, I believe it is advantageous to have worked on wooden boats, in a way it is enough of a challenge to make the right angle joinery we do seem more simple and the curved joinery more achievable. Between the members of our team we have a lot of experience working on boats in yards and training colleges across the UK.

How to Spot Quality Joinery: A Guide for Homeowners and Designers

Whether you're a homeowner commissioning a bespoke front door or an interior designer commissioning cabinetry for a renovation, understanding the signs of skilled joinery can save you time, stress, and money in the long run.

At Sutherland Joinery & Boatbuilding, we specialise in traditional and bespoke joinery crafted to the highest standards. In this guide, we break down what to look for when assessing the quality of joinery in furniture, windows, built in cabinets and more.

1. Precision

The most telling mark of quality joinery is the accuracy of its joints.

• Tight, seamless joins are a must—there should be no visible gaps.

• Traditional methods like dovetail, mortise and tenon, and finger joints are a sign of craftsmanship. These are stronger, longer-lasting, and more attractive than simple butt joints or fasteners. That’s not to say there isn’t a place for modern construction in quality builds, more on that in another post.

• The joins should be consistent throughout the piece, indicating a skilled hand and careful planning.

Look closely at drawers, frames, and cabinetry corners as well as for even gaps around and between doors.

2. Consistent Finish and Detailing

A true craftsman will ensure every surface and edge is clean, smooth, and well-finished.

• The grain should be sympathetically matched across panels and doors.

• Sharp edges are usually eased slightly to prevent chipping and splintering over time.

• Paint or varnish should be even and clean, with no drips, brush marks, or bare spots.

In heritage joinery, period-accurate detailing such as mouldings, beads, and sashes should reflect the original style—not just mimic it.

3. Symmetry and Proportion

Whether it's a simple shaker door or a decorative fireplace surround, good joinery balances proportion and layout.

• Panels and frames should be aligned and evenly spaced.

• Openings like drawers and cabinet doors should be square and even, not skewed, and operate smoothly.

• In bespoke projects, pieces should be tailored to the space, avoiding excessive filler panels or irregular gaps.

It’s this attention to proportion that gives a room elegance and cohesion.

4. Hardware and Functionality

No matter how beautiful the woodwork is, functionality should never be compromised.

• Hinges and runners should be smooth, strong, and correctly aligned.

• Drawer slides should extend fully without sticking.

• Cabinet doors should close flush with minimal force and remain aligned over time.

In quality joinery, hardware is carefully chosen not only for performance, but also to complement the style of the piece.

5. Material Selection

Quality starts with what you can't always see at first glance: the timber itself.

• Look for solid hardwoods or high-quality veneered plywood for structural elements.

• Grain should be tight and consistent, with no signs of warping or excessive knots.

• All materials should be sustainably sourced

At Sutherland Joinery, we select materials based on durability, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility.

6. Bespoke Details

Small details can add a lot to a design without giving it an overpowering feel of obnoxious grandeur. We like to consider some of the following:

• Custom profiles and mouldings

• Design integration with existing architecture

• Thoughtful problem-solving in tight or awkward spaces

This level of detail is what transforms a standard kitchen into something more special, or a simple window frame into a heritage feature.

Why It Matters

Poor-quality joinery may look acceptable on the surface but often warps, rots, or fails within a few years. It is especially important with external joinery to have a high level of understanding of how the weather may affect the piece and how this can be mitigated.  Quality joinery is an investment—it improves the feel of your space, increases property value, and will serve you well for decades.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re renovating a Georgian townhouse, commissioning new wardrobes for a modern home, or designing a yacht interior, knowing how to spot quality joinery gives you confidence in your decisions and results to be proud of.

At Sutherland Joinery & Boatbuilding, we take pride in delivering craftsmanship that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Every cut, joint, and finish is made to last.

Thinking about your next project?
Contact us to discuss bespoke solutions, material choices, or get a quote tailored to your vision.

Why Joinery Matters in Period Property Renovations

Preserving history with craftsmanship and care in Suffolk, Norfolk, and Greater London.

When restoring a period property, every detail counts — and few details are as crucial as the joinery. From original sash windows and panelled doors to timber staircases and mouldings, joinery plays a central role in preserving both the character and integrity of historic homes.

At Sutherland Joinery & Boatbuilding, we specialise in high-quality joinery for heritage properties across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Greater London. In this article, we explore why joinery is more than just a finishing touch — it’s a vital part of any successful renovation.

1. Joinery Defines Character

In Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian homes, timber detailing is everywhere: box sash windows, panelled doors, skirting boards, architraves, and picture rails. These features:

• Define the architectural style of the property

• Add depth, continuity, and warmth to interiors

• Reflect regional craftsmanship and materials of the era

When these elements are lost or poorly replaced, much of the building’s original charm disappears. Authentic joinery maintains that character or replaces it in a period accurate way.

2. Listed Buildings Require Sensitive Restoration

If your property is listed or located in a conservation area, alterations must meet specific planning and heritage guidelines. This includes the restoration or replication of:

• Original window profiles (e.g. glazing bars, horn details - all of which we are able to replicate)

• Timber doors and frames in keeping with the property’s age

• Like for like materials in certain cases materials will be very specifically listed

1. Our team is experienced in working within planning regulations, listing requirements and guidance from the diocese, providing joinery solutions that meet conservation standards while enhancing functionality and energy efficiency.

3. Matching Timber and Techniques Matters

Using the right timber is essential for longevity and historical accuracy. Whether restoring rotten window sills or replicating missing features, we consider:

• Timber species originally used (e.g. pine, oak, mahogany)

• Grain, colour, and patina matching

• Traditional joints (like mortise and tenon) rather than modern fixings

1. Where appropriate, we use modern timber such as Accoya®, which provides exceptional durability and stability without compromising the traditional look and feel.

4. Well-Crafted Joinery Adds Value

Thoughtful joinery enhances not just the aesthetics but also the performance of your home. For example:

• Restored sash windows can be draught-proofed and double-glazed discreetly

• Custom-made shutters and panelling offer insulation and period-accurate design

• Bespoke cabinetry and staircases create useful space while blending seamlessly with existing details

High-quality joinery can also significantly increase a property's market appeal, especially in heritage-sensitive areas.

5. Historic Buildings Require Tailored Solutions

Every period property is different, shaped by layers of history, location, and individual quirks. Off-the-shelf joinery won’t cut it.

At Sutherland Joinery, we work closely with homeowners, conservation officers, architects and designers to ensure every element is tailored to your property’s story. We take the time to understand:

• Your home’s heritage and structure

• Your goals for restoration or modernisation

• The materials and methods that will deliver the best long-term results

Work with Joiners Who Understand Period Homes

Whether you’re restoring a Georgian townhouse in London, a Victorian terrace in Norwich, or a timber-framed cottage in Suffolk, expert joinery is essential to getting it right.

At Sutherland Joinery & Boatbuilding, we blend traditional techniques with contemporary insight — ensuring your property is both beautiful and built to last.

Planning a heritage renovation?
Get in touch to discuss how we can support your project with bespoke joinery crafted to the highest standards.