About Us
Timeless design, made to last generations.
For nearly four decades, Block & Chisel has been a family story as much as a furniture one.
Founded in Cape Town in 1987 by Lynn and Sibley McAdam, the brand grew from their shared instinct for finding, restoring and creating pieces with character. Influenced by English Country, French Provincial and the relaxed spirit of South African living, they developed the distinctive Block & Chisel aesthetic.
Today, our collections combine furniture made in our Cape Town workshop with pieces sourced worldwide. Our stores, from Cape Town to Johannesburg, express the Block & Chisel world: considered, collected and made to be lived in.
Nearly 40 years on
Today, Block & Chisel is led by Paul McAdam and Sue McCoubrey, the second generation of the family.
Much has changed since 1987, but our commitment to thoughtful design and lasting craftsmanship remains. At our Cape Town workshop, furniture is still made with longevity in mind — guided by Sibley’s belief that a piece should earn the right to be made again.
Paul and Sue continue to evolve the Block & Chisel world through new collections, global sourcing and a layered mix of periods, materials and influences.
Nearly forty years on, Block & Chisel remains about more than furniture. It is about creating homes that feel collected, personal and beautifully lived in.
Our Legacy
The Block & Chisel story began long before its first store opened.
Lynn McAdam’s fascination with antiques was sparked by a neighbour’s extraordinary apartment in Port Elizabeth. Sibley developed his instinct for furniture, restoration and craftsmanship through years of working with old pieces.
In 1987, they brought their strengths together and opened Block & Chisel’s first store in Chelsea Village, Cape Town. Their independent spirit became part of the brand’s DNA: a love of pieces with history, materials with integrity and furniture made to live alongside a lifetime of collected treasures.
Hear Paul and Sue tell the Block & Chisel story in their own words below.
1975
Sibley McAdam opens his first workshop with a focus on traditional craftsmanship. He begins creating handmade furniture designed not just for homes, but for generations.
1987
The first Block & Chisel store opens in Chelsea Village, Cape Town, bringing carefully crafted furniture and curated pieces to the public.
1989
English Country and French Country collections begin production in the Cape Town workshop, establishing an aesthetic rooted in European heritage and artisanal skill.
2008
Block & Chisel expands to Johannesburg, introducing the brand to a new city.
2010
The Diep River flagship opens in Cape Town, creating a destination space that brings craftsmanship, scale and the full Block & Chisel experience together.
2016
A new workshop opens in Cape Town, supporting the continued development of the brand's craft and manufacturing.
2017
Block & Chisel launches its online store, making collections available to homes across South Africa.
2019
A new store opens on Kloof Street, reflecting the energy and design culture of the area.
2022
The Sandton flagship opens in Johannesburg, a contemporary expression of the Block & Chisel brand.
2026
A new website launches, refining how Block & Chisel connects with customers and shares its collections.
Explore our Made by Block & Chisel collection
Shop Now