At the age of sixteen years old, Lionel began his Cabinet Making apprenticeship in Nancy, France. The first few years of this 10 year course was dedicated to unique handwork skills.

After three years as an apprentice and as a part of the course structure, Lionel then travelled to various towns and workshops, and over a period of eight years, he learned the diverse techniques and specialities in cabinetry. During this time Lionel had the opportunity to work in England for one year in a fine bespoke furniture workshop near Oxford.

In 2008 Lionel was awarded his ‘Masters in Cabinet Making’ in Reims, France. He then undertook a teaching role at his school for 2 years where he taught 16 apprentices in order to achieve their first Cabinet Making Diploma.

Mainly passionate by transferring his knowledge of traditional French woodworking and marquetry techniques, Lionel also believes that in this fast world of production it is sometimes important to stop and take the time to use, share and enjoy these old-style techniques when working with such a pure and fine material such as timber.