PEL (Practical Equipment Limited) - A mahogany sideboard fitted with an arrangement of three drawers, a double door cupboard and single cupboard, with chromium plated tubular handles and raised to a conforming tubular steel frame over a sledge style foot, probably designed by Oliver Percy Bernard, S/D
Provenance - Formerly the property of the present owner's grandfather, William Harvey (Jim) Reynolds, (1890-1977).

He worked at PEL as a works manager from 1932 to 1956 and then was on 'special duties' from 1956 until he retired in 1960.

During his time at PEL he was instrumental in the development of steel tube furniture and there are a couple of patents registered in his name relating to the design of steel tube chairs. During this time, the family recall that he brought prototypes of several items back to the family home.

The sideboard is typical of the furniture made by PEL. The present owner and her brother have particularly fond memories of the sideboard - "We used to slide up and down the rails underneath it as small children and a special treat was to reorganise Nan and Grandad's drawers (as there were frequently sweets hidden in the jumble). My Nan used to store her 'medicinal' stout in the cupboard"

Ask a specialist

Will Farmer
Director

Contact & bio