David Gundry, founder of David Gundry Upholstery, shares an insight into the family business in a tribute after being recognised with a recent industry accolade.
After 20 years in the furniture industry and working his way up to Works Director at the original Buoyant Upholstery, in 1973 David and his wife Glennis fulfilled their dream of starting their own company producing high class quality bespoke furniture. Some 10 years on, their son Paul joined the Long Eaton-based company and is now Managing Director, while David concentrates on design and development, with the Gundry family upholding the same dedication and high values today.
The business also continues to evolve and push the boundaries of precision and elegance through its products and ongoing craftsmanship – a core pillar within its ethos. “We pride ourselves in remaining true to our core values; working with traditional artisan craftsmanship and mastery, sourcing and selecting the finest materials available, as well as providing exceptional customer service,” David said.
“We hope that each unique and carefully constructed piece will find a treasured place in our customer’s homes, and be enjoyed by them, their friends and their families now and for years to come.”
With each bespoke piece of furniture made, David said that only the “finest materials” are selected. He continued: “The commitment of our team of highly skilled crafts men and women contribute to producing our exquisite ranges of furniture. We’re proud to manufacture beautiful classic and inspirational contemporary designs, which reflect individual tastes and lifestyles.
“Equally important is what can’t be seen too. All frames are guaranteed for 25 years and are 100% made from selected hardwoods. Each one is glued, screwed and dowelled, resulting in a strong, secure finish. In addition, the industry-leading fully coil-sprung mesh top unit is selected for comfort and longevity.”
From frames to fabrics, David Gundry Upholstery sources its stylish fabrics from the finest mills around the world, which are upholstered with “unrivalled pattern-matching expertise”. “They are cut and tailored by hand, and all valances are hand sewn,” David added. “An extensive range of trimmings are available too, which add a subtle twist, or a flash of excitement to each iconic customisation if required.
“We are able to tailor our range to meet customer’s special requirements, a bespoke product in every sense of the word; height, depth and width can be adjusted.”
Earlier this year, David Gundry Upholstery unveiled many new fabrics as part of its 2025 collection, as well as introducing its new Marlow collection to its range of handmade bespoke sofas and chairs. Furthermore, and more-recently, the company was named as the Best Upholstery Supplier (Bespoke/High Quality) 2025 in the Big Furniture Awards, as voted by the industry.
“It’s been a busy year for us so far with new collections and fabric introductions, which have all been extremely popular,” David said. “To top that off, being recognised as the Best Upholstery Supplier in our bespoke field is truly an honour.
“We would like to thank the retailers that have voted for us. We’re a family business and we have supplied furniture to the retail trade for 53 years, always with the emphasis of making high quality bespoke furniture, so we are very proud to receive this award.”
The business is now preparing for this month’s Autumn Long Point exhibition, which takes place from 15-17 September 2025. Visitors attending can find David Gundry Upholstery in Harrington Mills on Leopold Street.
“If you have any questions or would simply like to discuss any aspects of our company or products, we are always delighted to hear from you,” David said. “Please do come and see us during Long Point, we’re excited to welcome you to our showroom.”
For more information or to arrange a visit, please call +44 (0)115 972 9147 or email enquiries@davidgundry.com.
