Southampton Design and Build Team – Interior Designer & Bespoke Carpenter | LNDesigns x HandleyBespoke

If you’ve been following my work for a while, you’ve probably heard me mention Paul who's my partner in both my personal and work life. I realised recently that I’ve never really introduced him properly on here, even though his work is so vital to a lot of what I do. So, allow me to shout out Paul Handley, the man behind HandleyBespoke. He’s the build to my design, my fiancé, master carpenter, and all-round genius maker. and together we offer something pretty unique in the world of interior design and bespoke furniture in Southampton and Hampshire.

Interior designer Leisha Norman and carpenter Paul Handley team Southampton

Interior Design Meets Bespoke Carpentry in Southampton

Our clients always tell us how smooth the whole process feels and that’s no accident. Paul and I have been working together for years and are experienced as a complete design and build team, and because we live and breathe what we do (and also live together… shoutout to houseboat life on Flo), there’s a level of communication and collaboration that just works.

Because when design and craftsmanship come together under one roof (literally), the magic really happens.

Where I bring the vision, colour palettes, layouts and spatial solutions... Paul brings the joinery know-how to make it all happen to the highest standard. He’s been working with wood professionally for over 15 years, creating everything from custom kitchens and fitted wardrobes to clever alcove storage, bespoke media walls, and handmade tables. If it's wood-related and you're dreaming about it, chances are Paul can make it happen.

Why choose a Southampton design & build team for your home?

In a typical design project, things can get lost in translation between designer and trades. But not here. When you work with us, you’re getting a joined-up service from start to finish which means no crossed wires, no delays, and no awkward gaps between planning and execution. As a trusted design and build team based in Southampton, we truly know the value of blending beautiful design with practicality.

Here’s what working with us looks like:

• Fast decisions: I can bounce ideas off Paul in real-time - not days later over email.

• Designs that work IRL: I know exactly what’s possible to build, so I can push boundaries without wasting time.

• Smooth installs: We can slot jobs into Paul’s diary with ease, which helps keep your project running on time.

• Total trust: I don’t just design with beauty in mind, I design knowing the build will be flawless.

Bespoke Interiors & Joinery Across Southampton and Hampshire

We’re proud to be based in Southampton, working across the city and surrounding areas like Winchester, the New Forest and wider Hampshire. With over 15 years in our respective fields, what really sets us apart is the love we have for our craft. I live and breathe interiors, creating spaces full of personality, colour and intention. Paul is endlessly passionate about the details... meticulous in his joinery, always striving to exceed expectations. Together, we’ve honed our skills through years of hands-on experience with real homes, real families, and real spaces. It’s that dedication to design, to craftsmanship, and to doing things properly that makes all the difference.

Client Reviews of Our Southampton, Winchester & Hampshire Design & Build Projects

“Paul and Leisha are a dream team. From the moment we met them, we felt in safe hands. Leisha designed the most incredible kitchen and living space, and Paul’s workmanship is second to none. They delivered exactly what we hoped for and more.”

"Our living room had an awkward alcove we didn’t know how to use. Paul and Leisha designed and built a stunning media wall that not only fits perfectly but has transformed the whole space."

"The custom wardrobes HandleyBespoke created for our home are an absolute game-changer. They’ve given us storage we didn’t think was possible and look so elegant—it’s like they’ve always been there."

"Working with Leisha and Paul was seamless. Having a designer and craftsman on the same team meant everything was cohesive, effortless, and beautifully executed. The quality speaks for itself."

“The whole experience felt effortless, and the quality speaks for itself. It’s rare to find a designer and craftsman who work so closely. it made the process so smooth, and the results are stunning.”

"I want to thank Leisha and Paul for the enormous help they have both given in transforming my house. Leisha has fantastic design ideas. Her sense of colour, of design, of the way a room needs to be used, to feel lived in - all are wonderful. She seems to instantly sense the 'feel' of a room and how it will be used.She designed my kitchen and had great design input to other areas of the house - sitting room, study, walk-in wardrobe - in each her input was invaluable. She has such an eye for detail ranging from colours to compliment a room, space, layout right down to the small detail of door knobs. I cannot rate her highly enough. Paul has then carried out her design ideas. His workmanship is so professional and the finished product is superb. Again, his products show the fine detail that we have come to expect from them both. I am enormously grateful to them both and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending them."

"Leisha made the whole process enjoyable, from the initial kick of meeting to the first revision of drawings then onto sample boxes etc it really was a first class experience. Coming up with ideas we would never thought of, utilising every square inch of the property for storage, practicality and aesthetics. In the past we have always played it safe with neutral greys and whites, however as I write this review in my fantastic bespoke blue office it goes to show "trust the process and more over trust Leisha" she really is a pro and knows what she is doing. She is well connected on the South coast allowing very favourable rates, not least the bespoke furniture we have fitted all over the house by HandleyBespoke where the craftmanship is second to none, this with our bespoke media wall really gets compliments. In summary, project was expertly managed, stayed within budget and time frame and myself and wife where left to simply choose various options and stop the kids causing havoc. Nothing but praise from us and we wish her all the best in the future, we shall be sure to use her services again on our next property."

Ready to transform your home?

If you’re searching for bespoke kitchens, fitted wardrobes, or custom furniture in Southampton or Hampshire, that are as practical as they are beautiful, we’d love to bring your ideas to life. From awkward alcoves to full room redesigns, our design and build team blends creativity with expert craftsmanship so your home looks beautiful and works perfectly for your lifestyle.

📞 Book a free consultation today to start planning your project.

📸 And for a peek at Paul’s love of wood and beautiful builds, follow him on Instagram: @HandleyBespoke or explore his full portfolio at: www.handleybespoke.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer bespoke kitchens in Southampton? Yes. We design and build bespoke kitchens across Southampton and Hampshire. Every kitchen is tailored to your space and lifestyle, from clever storage to custom cabinetry, all finished with Paul’s expert joinery.

Can you design and install fitted wardrobes in Southampton? Absolutely. We specialise in creating fitted wardrobes and clever storage solutions that make the most of every inch of space, whether it’s a master bedroom in Southampton or a family home in Winchester.

What areas do you cover besides Southampton? While we’re proudly based in Southampton, we also work across Hampshire including Winchester, Salisbury, the New Forest, Romsey, and surrounding areas. If you’re nearby and looking for bespoke interiors, we’d love to hear from you.

What’s the benefit of using a design and build team instead of separate trades? Working with us means design and craftsmanship come as a package. There are no crossed wires, no delays, and no awkward gaps between planning and execution... it's a smooth, joined-up process from concept to completion.

Can you help with small projects, like alcove storage or media walls? Yes — no project is too small. From transforming an unused alcove into storage to building a bespoke media wall or handmade dining table, we love making practical, beautiful solutions for every corner of your home.