Business Details
Expert Timber Buildings & Theatrical Scenery Construction
D S H Carpentry & Design has been delivering specialist scenery construction, pantomime set hire, and bespoke timber building solutions for over 25 years. Founded by RADA-trained professionals David and Sarah Holland, our business combines theatrical expertise with carpentry craftsmanship to create unique, budget-conscious projects. We collaborate closely with theatre designers, production managers, and private clients to ensure every structure meets exact specifications while maintaining artistic integrity. Our team's extensive experience in both stage scenery and garden architecture allows us to offer a seamless service from concept to completion.With workshops in the Cotswolds, we serve London, the Midlands, and southern England, supporting both cultural institutions and residential clients. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through continuous set refurbishment cycles and a 10-year craftsmanship guarantee on timber buildings. Having weathered industry challenges during the pandemic, we remain dedicated to providing innovative solutions that exceed client expectations.
Services
Scenery Construction
Pantomime Set Hire
Timber Buildings
Shepherd Huts
Garden Retreats
Highlights and features
- 25+ years' experience in theatrical and architectural carpentry
- RADA-trained professionals managing every project
- 10-year craftsmanship guarantee on timber buildings
- Continuous set refurbishment programme ensures quality
- Integrated design-to-construction process with site visits
What people say
Delighted with the result
Most impressed
Successful birthday present
Hassle free project
Quality and permanence
Services
Scenery Construction
We create custom theatrical scenery using traditional timber methods combined with modern techniques. Our 25+ years' experience serves touring companies and prestigious venues like Cambridge Arts Theatre. Projects include steel fabrication, backdrop painting, and complete set installations with nationwide delivery options.
Pantomime Set Hire
Our 12 professionally maintained pantomime sets suit proscenium stages up to 15m wide. We offer refurbishment cycles, custom modifications, and special effects integration. Clients benefit from expert advice on sight-lines and flying systems for seamless productions.
Timber Buildings
Crafted from hardwood or softwood, our bespoke garden buildings include offices, playhouses, and storage solutions. Each project includes free consultations, site visits, and detailed design visualisations. We manage complete installations with optional landscaping services.
Shepherd Huts
Custom-designed shepherd huts combine traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality. Available with optional utilities integration, these structures serve as garden retreats or event spaces. Each unit receives individual attention to match client specifications and site conditions.
Garden Retreats
We create bespoke garden retreats ranging from home offices to entertainment spaces. Our process includes design visualisation, material selection, and complete installation. Projects incorporate client preferences for style, functionality, and budgetary requirements.
People
David Holland
Set Construction, Stage Carpenter and Technician
RADA-trained carpentry expert with 25+ years' experience in theatrical scenery and timber building construction. Specialises in traditional joinery techniques and project management, ensuring quality delivery across diverse projects.
Sarah Holland
Scenic Artist
Reigate Art College graduate with expertise in scenic painting and architectural design. Manages bespoke garden building projects from concept to completion, combining artistic vision with practical construction requirements.
Questions
What types of pantomime sets do you hire?
We offer 12 high-quality sets including Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, and Jack and the Beanstalk with customisable options.
Can you accommodate unusual stage requirements?
Yes, we create bespoke effects like flying carpets, beanstalks, and custom 'slosh' scenes tailored to production needs.
What areas do you serve for timber buildings?
We work across Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, and Gloucestershire with nationwide delivery options.
How does the bespoke design process work?
Sarah Holland provides free consultations, site visits, and artistic impressions before creating detailed working drawings.
Do you offer guarantees on your work?
We provide a 10-year craftsmanship guarantee on all timber building projects.
