About Us

Iroko Woodcraft is the trading name for Jim Smith’s joinery and furniture making business, based in Edinburgh.

Jim Smith’s Background

I spent 16 years in facilities management within the Royal Air Force, where I learned the value of professional and reliable service delivered on time. During the first years of my RAF career, I realised that I could not afford to buy the quality of furniture that I like. Many hours spent in the base carpentry workshop instilled a passion for working with wood which subsequently led to the completion of many commissions, made on a part-time basis. Following my RAF service, I returned to full time education to gain a degree in Building Surveying, with a final dissertation on the modern use of timber in construction.

This qualification, and the 2 years of subsequent employment in surveying appointments provided invaluable knowledge of buildings, which is put to good use when advising clients about joinery projects. I now devote my energies full-time to Iroko Woodcraft, which derives most of its business from customer referrals.

Why Iroko?

What is in the name? Iroko is an African hardwood, traditionally used for boatbuilding and external joinery. Like teak, it is used for laboratory benches due to its resistance to acid attack.

Sustainable Woods

The timber I use comes from a variety of sources, but all new stock is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, to ensure that it has been harvested from sustainable and well managed forests. I also use timber reclaimed from second hand furniture, including mahogany and teak. A local sawmill provides Scottish and European hardwoods such as oak, ash and elm.