Who we are

James Spence — Co-Founder & Design Director

James’s career in design began with a Foundation in Art & Design at De Montfort University, followed by a degree in Furniture & Product Design at Nottingham Trent University. His final-year work was selected for exhibition at New Designers, where he met the Design Director of Parker Knoll and was subsequently offered his first professional role as a furniture designer.

He later moved into bespoke furniture design, developing his expertise in concept development, technical detailing and the delivery of complex, one-off commissions. It was during this time that he began working closely with Tom, establishing the creative and technical partnership that would ultimately lead them to found Thomas James Furniture.

Today, as Design Director, James remains closely involved throughout the entire creative process, from early client conversations and concept development through to material selection, detailing and production. He is particularly passionate about collaborating with specialist artisans, exploring the possibilities of exceptional materials and seeing an idea evolve from initial concept to finished piece.

His approach is defined by proportion, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, always with a deep respect for the original design vision. Outside of work, James is a keen runner and mountain biker, with a longstanding passion for restoring classic cars and attending classic car shows.

Tom Adnams — Co-Founder & Design Director

James’s career in design began with a Foundation in Art & Design at De Montfort University, followed by a degree in Furniture & Product Design at Nottingham Trent University. His final-year work was selected for exhibition at New Designers, where he met the Design Director of Parker Knoll and was subsequently offered his first professional role as a furniture designer.

He later moved into bespoke furniture design, developing his expertise in concept development, technical detailing and the delivery of complex, one-off commissions. It was during this time that he began working closely with Tom, establishing the creative and technical partnership that would ultimately lead them to found Thomas James Furniture.

Today, as Design Director, James remains closely involved throughout the entire creative process, from early client conversations and concept development through to material selection, detailing and production. He is particularly passionate about collaborating with specialist artisans, exploring the possibilities of exceptional materials and seeing an idea evolve from initial concept to finished piece.

His approach is defined by proportion, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, always with a deep respect for the original design vision. Outside of work, James is a keen runner and mountain biker, with a longstanding passion for restoring classic cars and attending classic car shows.