Founded by William Linnell in 1730 at 8 Long Acre, St Martin’s Lane, the Linnell workshop grew into one of London’s largest cabinet-making firms. In 1750 the business moved to 28 Berkeley Square, placing it at the heart of fashionable Mayfair. After William’s death in 1763, his son John Linnell inherited the firm, expanding its clientele and reputation until his own death.
Patrons & Major Commissions
John’s early triumphs included a suite for the Chinese Bedroom at Badminton House for Charles Somerset, 4th Duke of Beaufort. Further important commissions followed:
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Nathaniel Curzon, 1st Baron Scarsdale, at Kedleston Hall, Derbyshire
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Robert Child, at Osterley Park House, Middlesex
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Hugh Percy, 1st Duke of Northumberland, and Elizabeth Percy, Duchess of Northumberland — with armchairs attributed to Linnell at Alnwick Castle
These projects cemented Linnell’s status among the premier designers and makers of the century.
Style, Materials & Signature Works
Linnell’s finest pieces display exceptional marquetry and expert veneering using rare satinwood, rosewood, and mahogany. His designs range across:
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Cabinet furniture and veneered case pieces
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Suites of seating, notably armchairs
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Console and side tables
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Giltwood mirrors — both wall and pier mirrors
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Chimney-pieces and other interior furnishing designs
Aesthetically, the firm moved with the times, excelling in both the Rococo and Neoclassical tastes, often blending lively ornament with refined architectural restraint.
Circle & Contemporaries
Working within London’s tight-knit network of designers, bronze-founders and architects, the Linnell firm stood alongside and interacted with contemporaries such as Thomas Chippendale, Ince & Mayhew, Thomas Sheraton, Robert Adam, and Matthew Boulton.
Legacy
From Long Acre to Berkeley Square, the Linnell name became synonymous with quality, fashionable design and superb craftsmanship. Surviving works in country houses and collections across Britain attest to the firm’s enduring influence on eighteenth-century furniture and interior decoration.
Quick Facts
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Founded: 1730 (William Linnell), Long Acre, London
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Relocated: 1750 to 28 Berkeley Square
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Succeeded by: John Linnell (from 1763)
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Specialities: Marquetry, veneered cabinet furniture, giltwood mirrors, console tables, suites of seating
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Styles: Rococo and Neoclassical
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Key patrons: Badminton House, Kedleston Hall, Osterley Park, Alnwick Castle
