Finding a storage solution that lasts
Have you ever thought, “I’d love to clear all this clutter — not just with a quick fix, but with a storage solution that works for good? I would also like it to look beautiful, suit my home, and reflect our style.”
Let me introduce you to Brian.
A new home, a new challenge
Brian and his wife recently relocated from a larger house in Staffordshire to a charming cottage in Hawkhurst, Kent. However, their dream home came with one particular challenge. They quickly discovered they had more posessions than space.
“Like many people who downsize, we found we had far too many belongings that did not fit into our new home. We also had a serious lack of storage,” Brian told us.
Searching for the perfect furniture
The couple searched for bespoke furniture that would answer their storage problems without costing too much. Unfortunately, they struggled to find the right solution.
“We spent a great deal of time looking for furniture that met our needs and did not require a ‘second mortgage’. We were ready to give up when a local soft furnishing shop in Cranbrook recommended Jali. They had used Jali themselves and thought we would love it.”
Turning ideas into a design
The couple started by exploring the Jali website. Brian used the online design package to create some initial plans.
“We liked what we saw and quickly realised Jali could help us develop our ideas. We explored many options that would allow the storage we needed while also creating lots of room for all our books.”
Working with the character of a period home
Brian wanted to get the details just right. He knew their period house had plenty of character, but also some challenges.
“Like many older homes, the walls, floors and ceilings are not always perfectly straight or square like modern properties. We welcomed advice on how to adapt our design and make the most of the Jali system.”
Creating the perfect dresser
Over the following weeks, Brian and the Jali team worked together to refine the designs. They reviewed the measurements, adjusted the details, and explored different style options.
Finally, with the support of the Jali team, Brian created the dresser you can see below — a piece that fits their home perfectly and provides the storage they needed.
The cupboards after the plinth was levelled:
Trim was added to the cupboard skirting to cover the gap caused by the uneven floor:
… and the shelving installed:
The couple installed and painted the entire unit themselves, and even notched the top section so it would fit snugly round the beam on the ceiling (below):
Finally, the unit is finished and filled with books and treasured objects; Brian’s photo, below, shows the unit with the continuous run of cupboards extending under the window to the right-hand wall.
And a shot by Helen from Jali, below, when she went to visit the cottage recently:
And the verdict? Back to Brian…
Brian Says:
Brian told us that we manufactured the dresser to an exceptional standard. He said the unit feels extremely sturdy and well engineered, with every part fitting together perfectly on the first attempt. As a result, he was delighted with the finished piece.
He also praised the Jali team for being extremely helpful and professional throughout the process.
“Both my wife and I will most certainly order more furniture from Jali. We would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone.”
Thank you, Brian. We are thrilled that we helped solve your storage challenge and created exactly what you wanted. Most importantly, we are delighted that you love the final result.
