A Legacy of Craftsmanship: Tenterden House Interiors
Tenterden has long been known for its independent shops and timeless sense of style, and few places capture that spirit quite like Tenterden House Interiors. The story behind this much-loved business stretches back nearly two centuries, to 1826, when the original cabinet and piano makers, E. Dodimead, were founded in Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. Built on a tradition of craftsmanship and fine furniture making, that legacy still runs through the business today.
In 1984, Robert Willson, with the help of his wife Ingrid, revived his passion for beautiful, handcrafted interiors and established Tenterden House Interiors. Their vision was clear: to bring exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and British-made furniture to the heart of Kent. Their son Jamie joined the business in 2003, and when Robert retired a few years later, the next generation continued the family’s dedication to design and detail.
The business flourished, and in 2008 they took the opportunity to expand into a larger premises on Tenterden High Street, where the shop remains today. Spread across 6,000 square feet and three floors, it houses 16 beautifully presented showrooms, each styled to inspire visitors with its distinctive mix of furniture, fabrics, and finishing touches. From bespoke British-made upholstery to unique gifts and accessories, it’s a space that invites exploration, often described by customers as an Aladdin’s Cave of interior ideas.
In 2016, a second location joined the fold: Manor Row Interiors. Just a short distance from the main store, it was completely refurbished to offer a fresh, contemporary environment showcasing a different range of products. Together, the two locations complement each other perfectly one celebrating tradition, the other embracing modern design both underpinned by the same commitment to quality and service.
Every piece at Tenterden House Interiors and Manor Row is personally selected by the family team, ensuring that each range reflects their eye for craftsmanship and their customers’ varied tastes. Many collections are exclusive to them, unavailable anywhere else in the country. It’s this combination of experience, individuality, and passion that continues to make the business such a cornerstone of the Tenterden high street.
For anyone seeking furniture or interiors that tell a story of heritage, creativity, and enduring British craftsmanship, Tenterden House Interiors remains an inspiring destination.
As the business looks ahead, a new chapter is on the horizon. After over a decade of success, Manor Row Interiors will close its doors at the end of March 2026, as co-founder Ingrid Willson begins a well-deserved retirement following 42 remarkable years in the world of interiors. The decision comes as part of a considered plan to consolidate the company’s operations within Tenterden House Interiors, ensuring its long-term strength and stability in an ever-changing retail landscape. To support this transition, both shops will host a selection of special sales in the New Year, offering customers the opportunity to discover unique pieces before Manor Row’s farewell. The team extends heartfelt thanks to all who have supported the business over the years and looks forward to welcoming familiar faces to Tenterden House Interiors, where Jamie and Amy Willson, together with long-standing team member Rosemary, will continue to uphold the same standards of quality, service, and creative design that have defined the family’s legacy.
www.tenterdenhouseinteriors.co.uk
