A family and friends business at its heart, the Dowsing & Reynolds story begins in 2012 with James, concrete sculptures, vintage light bulbs and the search for a creative outlet. Co-founder Ally noticed the similarities between James’ designs and expensive concrete light fittings in a magazine, and that sparked an idea…
Where it all began…
Initially enlisting the help of patient family members and friends, things soon ramped up for James. He began designing new products and curating unique collections until the range grew to encompass a whole host of beautiful home interior fixtures and fittings from the handle you pull to open your biscuit cupboard, to the light switch you flick off once you’ve said your ‘na-nights’, and every special moment in between.
A dab hand in all things digital, Ally was roped in to build the Dowsing & Reynolds’ website, all while holding her senior position in an ad agency. This is where the brand was born.
The D&R filter
Everything we sell has to go through the D&R filter first… Would James and Ally have this in their home and if so, where and how would they use it?
Ally’s standards, in particular, are high; we spend a lot of time researching and refining our designs to make sure everything is as good as it can be. The devil is in the detail, after all.
Everything we sell has to go through the D&R filter first…
Would James and Ally have this in their home and if so,
where and how would they use it?
Oh, how we’ve grown
Originally, James and Ally assembled a team of eight, but even that wasn’t enough to keep up with the orders so we moved from our cosy old mill in Mabgate, Leeds to a larger space at Scott Hall Mills.
A few years and a (fair) few new faces later, we’re a growing team of 60+ and in 2021 moved to a 30,000 sq ft HQ on the outskirts of the city to house our superb warehouse and head office teams.
Team spirit
Our origin story is one of a desire for exceptional design combined with a passion for creating a one-of-a-kind workplace. We’re part of the Good Business Charter which means we’ve been officially recognised for our responsible business practices and dedication to our team’s wellbeing.
Our teams enjoy a number of benefits including the Cycle to Work Scheme, access to Health Assured, as well as free food to enjoy at breakfast and lunch.
If you’re curious to know more about what it’s like to work at Dowsing & Reynolds, head to our Team page.