This cabinet began life as a large elm sideboard that had been part of a family home for decades. When the elderly original owner moved to a smaller flat, the sideboard could no longer stay, yet no one had the heart to see it thrown away. Instead, it was given a new purpose.

Lovingly dismantled and repurposed, the salvaged elm timber was transformed into a beautifully crafted bedside cabinet — a piece that preserves both the wood’s natural beauty and the family’s memories, while giving it a completely fresh chapter.

The Process

The transformation began by setting out the dimensions and proportions for a traditional frame-and-panel construction. Mortice and tenon joints were hand-cut to form the sturdy side panels and rails, while grooves were made to receive floating panels that can naturally expand and contract with the seasons. The drawer runners and front rails were fitted with precision, ensuring smooth movement and lasting strength.

Each element was built with care — from shaping and moulding the edges to crafting the door and drawer using the same timeless joinery methods. The top, made from tongue-and-groove boards, was secured with timber buttons to allow flexibility in the wood, while a rebated inner edge gave the structure added refinement. Every curve and moulding was designed to balance practicality and visual appeal.

The carcass

The drawer runners

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The top

The mouldings

The door

The drawer

The handles

The Result

Once assembled, the cabinet was finished with two finely turned elm handles, a fitted shelf, and a dust board beneath the drawer for extra functionality. The entire piece was then sealed with three coats of lacquer, highlighting the rich grain and warm tone of the elm.

This cabinet is more than just a functional item — it’s a testament to sustainable craftsmanship, where skill, patience, and respect for materials come together to give new life to forgotten wood.

Now fully restored and repurposed, this elegant elm cabinet carries forward the story of the original sideboard. What was once destined for the tip has been transformed into a meaningful piece of furniture that continues its legacy — now taking pride of place in the bedroom of the original owner’s grandson. A perfect example of how thoughtful craftsmanship can preserve both beauty and family history.

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