Founded in 1730 by Robert Gillow, Gillows of Lancaster became one of Britain’s most respected cabinetmaking firms, renowned for its craftsmanship, innovative design, and use of the finest materials. From their early adoption of imported West Indian mahogany to their pioneering practice of stamping furniture, Gillows set standards that continue to guide collectors today.
The firm’s success allowed it to expand from Lancaster to an Oxford Street showroom in London by the late 18th century, placing it at the centre of fashionable society. Their designs reflected the evolving tastes of the Georgian and Regency periods, from the symmetry and restraint of early Georgian styles to the elegance and refinement of Regency furniture.
Gillows is credited with popularising enduring forms such as the extending dining table and the Davenport desk, combining beauty with practical innovation. Today, Gillows furniture is prized for its quality, provenance, and timeless appeal, celebrated as a benchmark of British cabinetmaking.
