For over 85 years, Duresta has stood as a symbol of British craftsmanship, timeless design, and refined comfort. Born in 1938 and still handmade in the heart of England, Duresta furniture continues to reflect a proud tradition of artisanal excellence—where every stitch, every frame, and every fabric selection is a celebration of personal style and enduring quality.
At the heart of Duresta is a devoted team of designers and upholsterers whose knowledge and skill are unmatched. “Only when you produce quality do you understand quality,” says Dale Corner, a master upholsterer who began his journey at Duresta in 1979. Now with 45 years of experience, Dale remains driven by the same passion he had as a young apprentice. “My aim is to produce the very best furniture possible—and to leave a legacy of quality and design for future upholsterers.”
Duresta’s ethos is built around one central promise: comfort. Whether through plush cushions, perfect proportions, or indulgent fabric choices, each piece of Duresta furniture is designed to offer the ultimate in luxury seating. With roots in traditional English upholstery techniques, Duresta’s handcrafted sofas and chairs carry subtle yet defining characteristics: deep seats, generous padding, and supportive structure—all brought to life with a meticulous eye for detail.
While comfort may be at the core, Duresta is equally defined by its unwavering devotion to self-expression. With an expansive catalogue of designs—ranging from classically elegant to clean-lined contemporary—customers are empowered to express their individual tastes and personalities through their furniture.
The brand’s bespoke approach ensures every Duresta piece is uniquely tailored. From choosing from an impressive palette of luxurious fabrics—featuring bold colours, intricate textures, and artistic prints—to selecting from refined wood finishes and interior trims, Duresta furniture becomes a true reflection of the homeowner’s vision.
“We don't just build furniture,” explains a Duresta design lead. “We help people tell stories about who they are and how they want their home to feel.”
Duresta’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of Long Eaton, a historic centre of upholstery craftsmanship. The company remains one of the last standing British manufacturers committed to producing luxury furniture entirely by hand—right here in the UK.
Each frame is made from solid hardwood and assembled using traditional joinery methods. Every detail—from pattern cutting and sewing to the final upholstery—is overseen by artisans who bring decades of experience to their work.
“Our people are our pride,” says the Duresta leadership team. “Behind every beautifully made sofa or armchair is a person whose hands and heart shaped it.”
In an age of disposable design and mass production, Duresta stands out for its dedication to sustainability and longevity. Pieces are not only built to look stunning, but also to stand the test of time—both structurally and stylistically. This commitment to quality means that a Duresta piece is an investment, not just in aesthetics, but in durability and responsible production.
By continuing to manufacture in the UK, Duresta also reduces its carbon footprint, supports local employment, and maintains tighter quality control—all of which contribute to a more sustainable furniture industry.
As Duresta looks ahead, the brand remains grounded in the traditions that built it—yet inspired by the possibilities of modern design and materials. Innovation meets heritage in every new range, as Duresta seeks to balance timeless appeal with contemporary living.
“Whether you’re furnishing a Georgian townhouse or a modern apartment,” says a spokesperson, “Duresta offers you the opportunity to create a living space that is both beautifully personal and incredibly comfortable.”
About Duresta
Luxury sofa and chair company that is handcrafted in England using the finest materials and traditional methods, using a wide range of beautiful fabrics to suit your requirements. See our website to view the full selection of both English luxury designed models and International luxury products.
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Duresta, the iconic British furniture brand known for handcrafted luxury, timeless comfort, and expressive design, is delighted to announce an exclusive in-store workshop event for interior designers at its elegant Islington showroom, taking place during London Design Week and beyond.
Held over two sets of dates—16th & 17th September and 30th September & 1st October 2025, from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM—this engaging and inspiring mid-morning event offers design professionals a unique opportunity to connect, discover, and indulge in the world of Duresta.
We would be delighted to welcome you to our Duresta Showroom for an exclusive designer event – for a morning of fresh coffee, delicious cake and a first look at our latest collections.
Discover exquisite new fabrics and timeless handmade designs that embody the true spirit of Duresta. Our highly knowledgeable Brand Ambassadors will be on hand to share their expertise in the craft and heritage, ensuring you leave feeling inspired and full of ideas for your projects.
As a thank you for joining us, you will receive a designer goody bag to take home.
In addition, all attending designers will be automatically enrolled into the Duresta Designers Club — granting you access to exceptional trade terms and exclusive discounts. Experience an ongoing partnership with one of the UK’s most trusted luxury furniture brands.
As part of the Duresta experience, our designers will also be introduced to the ‘TLC Designers Hub’ — a welcoming, creative space that serves as a base for future collaborations.
Located just 200 metres from the Business Design Centre, in the heart of vibrant Islington, the Hub offers a peaceful yet central meeting location. Designers are encouraged to bring clients here for future consultations, make use of the calm, inspiring atmosphere, and enjoy the convenience of ample and easy parking nearby.
- Duresta has long been a destination for discerning interior designers - Heritage craftsmanship and attention to detail, made in Long Eaton, England - A vast range of exquisite fabric and leather options, natural wood finishes and customisable designs - A dedicated Islington showroom with highly knowledgeable brand ambassadors
Whether your projects are residential, commercial or bespoke, Duresta offers a trusted solution for your quality, comfort, and long-term needs.
Dates: 16th & 17th September 2025 / 30th September & 1st October 2025 Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Duresta Showroom 116G Upper Street Islington Square London, N1 1QP
Travel & Access: Nearest Parking: Business Design Centre Car Park (just 200m away) Nearest Tube Stations: Angel (Northern Line) or Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line & Overground)
Reserve Your Place Feel free to RSVP at [email protected] with your preferred date to secure your spot or walk in at your leisure.
We look forward to welcoming you for a morning of warmth, creativity, and connection — and of course, Mid-Morning Cake and Coffee.
This engaging and inspiring mid-morning event offers design professionals a unique opportunity to connect, discover, and indulge in the world of Duresta.
Sessions: - Tuesday 30th September, 10:30am - 12pm - Wednesday 1st October, 10:30am - 12pm
SBID Members earn 2 x CPD points (per session) for attending!
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