An unusual pair of British bedside tables dating from the 1990s, originally produced under contract for Ministry of Defence accommodation.
Constructed predominantly from warm honey-toned plywood, the tables have a wonderfully simple, utilitarian design. The exposed laminated ply edges are deliberately visible throughout, complemented by contrasting timber rails, pale hard-wearing laminate tops and rows of gold-toned metal fixing caps.
The construction is particularly appealing, with full-height plywood sides forming both the structure and feet, an open lower shelf and a raised rail running along the back of each top. The result is functional and economical, but also remarkably architectural.
Although produced during the 1990s, their pared-back form has a distinctly Modernist quality, recalling earlier post-war utility and institutional furniture. The combination of plywood, laminate and exposed fittings also gives them a character that feels very much at home within contemporary, industrial and loft-style interiors.
In excellent original condition, there may be some minor marks and blemishes as to be expected for their age. Please see photographs for detail.
Importantly, the original labels remain beneath the tables. These identify them as “Defence Accommodation Stores” bedside tables, with Remploy/Yexel named as the contractor, together with the original MOD reference and contract information.
Remploy was a significant British organisation with a long history of furniture production and of supplying goods under government contracts. We have therefore retained the original contractor attribution, while not assuming that every component was necessarily manufactured directly by Remploy.
Dimensions (each)
Height: 61cm
Width: 38cm
Depth: 30cm
A really characterful pair of late 20th-century British institutional pieces: practical, beautifully uncomplicated and made particularly appealing by their honest construction and surviving MOD provenance.
Furniture Delivery Service
- Specialist courier: items are fully insured & handled with care by our tried and trusted couriers.
- Delivery charge varies by location, size and weight - automatically applied at checkout.
- Timescales: Usually within 10 working days. Scotland & farther afield may take longer.
- View the main Delivery Page for more information on our furniture delivery service.
- If you have a specific request or need an item urgently, please email us prior to purchase.
Our restoration process
Preparation
We carefully assess every piece, identifying any damage, repairs or replacement parts it may need. Drawers may need new runners, handles can be missing or damaged, and joints may require repair or reinforcement. We look beyond the surface to uncover hidden defects, ensuring each piece is restored to work as it was originally intended.
Restoration
With over 20 years of experience, we know that the right restoration techniques can make all the difference. It’s a delicate process that takes patience, skill and attention to detail — one we’ve taken the time to perfect. Each piece is carefully and sensitively restored, preserving its original character and charm while giving it a new lease of life.
Finishing
Finally, we add the finishing touches — whether that’s painting, oiling or sealing, fitting new handles, hinges or catches, or simply giving the piece a final clean and polish. We make sure every piece is ready for modern living, giving it a new lease of life and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to be loved for generations to come.
Before and after
Each piece is carefully and sympathetically restored to preserve the character, charm and beautiful details that make it unique. The result is a truly individual piece of furniture, thoughtfully restored for
modern living and ready to bring warmth, personality and timeless style to your home for years to come.
