How We Began

Bokel began as a lockdown project in 2020. Like many others at the time, I was looking for a desk but found myself stuck between beautiful but out-of-reach high-end options and "fast furniture" that wasn't built to last. I hated the idea that the things we bring into our homes are destined for a landfill. I'd had enough of collapsed drawers, warped MDF, and peeling paper foil.

I wanted to return to a more traditional way of furnishing. Inspired by the durability of vintage furniture, I set out to source pieces crafted with traditional techniques and solid materials. 

The real turning point came during the renovation of my first home. A Victorian terrace with sloping ceilings, wonky walls, and awkward alcoves. I spent my free time searching for standard furniture that would fit, only to realise that most modern pieces are too generic to solve the problems of a real home. While bespoke joinery is the ideal solution, it often remains unaffordable for most. 

I launched our Custom Design Service in 2023 to bridge that gap. It is a personal way to solve the puzzle of your floor plan with craftsmanship that doesn't carry a luxury markup. Bokel Home furniture is fully customisable, allowing you to modify the dimensions, finish, hardware, storage functions, and more to suit your space perfectly.

Our Name

Pronounced: BOH-kuhl

Bokel is a beautiful rural village in Germany where my Opa grew up. It is a place where things move at a slow and quiet pace. As I have gotten older, I have realised that this quieter way of life is exactly what our modern homes are missing.

The name is a reminder to do things differently. We do not just sell furniture; we advocate for a slower pace of life. This is why our site is designed to be quiet and simple, without the overstimulating countdowns or high-pressure tactics found elsewhere. We want the process of furnishing your home to be as calm as the village itself.

Our Philosophy

My favourite homes to visit are those that reflect individual personality through colour, art, textures, homeware and furniture. Homes should reflect who we are, not fleeting trends. You will not see us sharing what is 'in' or 'out'. Once you "buy" a piece of furniture, it should be yours to love forever, or to pass on to someone else who will.

Our Ethos

We keep our team small and our overheads low. This allows us to invest in quality materials and fair wages without the luxury markup, ensuring ethical furniture remains accessible.

Transparency is central to how we work. Our Ethical Tag System provides an honest look at our materials and packaging, including the areas where we still need to improve. We have no interest in greenwashing; we would rather be direct about our progress.

We also advocate for mindful consumption. If you need time to decide, we can lock in prices for a few months to give you the space to make the right choice. 

Get in Touch

We're always here to help. Drop us a message if you need help with an upcoming project, need advice, or have a question. 

Chloe Stephens - Founder