A sincere respect for the natural world
Our company is rooted in a sincere respect for the natural world and a sensitivity to man’s relationship with that world. As a result our production and design philosophy pays homage to the natural world that gives us our materials and our inspiration. We create kitchens and living spaces with a view to longevity, for each piece to last generations.
In selecting materials for construction, we focus not only on the aesthetic and strength properties but also the provenance of the inputs. We have an uncompromising policy of using FSA certified timber and a strong preference for local suppliers wherever possible. We also prefer finishes that compliment rather than mask the natural properties of our materials and are either natural of water-based products.
Why we started the company
Cabinetworks came about out of a need to bridge the divide between sophisticated modular European cabinet systems and the highly skilled craft of handmade cabinetry. By combining the best of both approaches, we are able to offer the refinement that comes with an integrated system together with the craft of custom design, fabrication, and individual flexibility.
Craftsmanship
We believe the human touch and a hand crafted approach allows us to create things that even the most sophisticated technology cannot. Wherever possible we stick to time honored joinery techniques and minimise our dependency on hardware, always allowing the natural authenticity of the materials to shine through. We like to think that the pieces we create pay tribute to the majestic trees that yield their timber to our cause.
How we work
We provide an expert, tightly focused design service to suit the unique needs of each client whether an architect, interior designer or home owner. We deal with a limited number of select projects each year that involve extensive client liaison and intense attention to detail. We produce all the elements of your project in our fully-equipped woodworking facility, deliver them with care, oversee the installation process if necessary, and provide all-inclusive aftersales support.
The team
Andy de Klerk
Founder and Director
Coster “Dixon” Distone
Factory Teamleader
Billy Nell
Senior Cabinetmaker
Warren Franken
Head Designer
Janine Muller
Design and Sales
Sheralyn Gilchrist
Design and Sales
Company history
Andy de Klerk is one of the most respected all-round mountaineers in the world today. Climbing has defined his life. It has taken him to places where he has encountered elements that are hard to find in the modern, urban world – order, simplicity and peace.
When he founded Cabinetworks in 1994, Andy set out with the same passion and respect for the natural world that drove him into the mountains to bring this sense of harmony, this calm and balanced beauty, into his client’s homes.
Today the company is recognised as the premier cabinetmaking company in South Africa. Our work is also internationally sought after and half of what we make is shipped internationally.
We employ 27 people and operate out of a 700m2 workshop in Kommetjie in the south peninsula of Cape Town. We have a showroom and design studio in central Cape Town and have created an agency for our Japanese Sliding Shoji Screens in Johannesburg.
