In a busy workshop in Leeds, filled with the scent of freshly cut timber, Dovetailors brings bespoke furniture to life – fusing traditional joinery with modern CNC technology. Founded in 2005 by David and Emmanuelle Wilson, the family-run business serves private clients, architects and retailers with high-quality, handcrafted pieces.
For years, the team at Dovetailors took pride in their clean, well-organised space. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems were in place, cleaning routines were followed and the workshop felt safe. But something was still off.
“We always thought our LEV and good habits were enough,” says Ethan Roberts, Lead Furniture Maker. “But during busy days, the air would get thick. You could actually taste what material was being cut. Looking back, we didn’t realise how much we were breathing in.”
The problem? Fine dust doesn’t stay put. It drifts. It lingers. It settles in walkways where no one thinks to wear PPE.. Despite best efforts, air quality was still a silent risk.
That’s where Zehnder Clean Air Solutions came in. The goal wasn’t to replace what already worked, but to enhance it – building on Dovetailors’ solid foundation with an ambient air cleaning system that tackled the dust LEV couldn’t reach.
Installation took less than a day, with no interruption to daily operations. Zehnder’s solution runs as a managed service – meaning no capital investment, no maintenance burden, no hassle. The smart sensors in the system automatically adjust to dust levels, ramping up filtration when needed.
The difference was immediate. The air felt lighter, the noise dropped and that fine layer of dust began to disappear.
“I used to walk through the workshop and feel the dust settle,” Ethan shares. “Now, it’s a much nicer environment to work in – and to walk through. Everyone feels it.”
Zehnder’s air audits confirmed the transformation: an 80% reduction in airborne dust. With less exposure, Dovetailors not only protects its craftspeople, but also its office staff, visiting clients and anyone else moving through the space.
The difference isn’t just visible – it’s tangible. Cleaner air means healthier breathing, easier cleaning, and peace of mind that the invisible risks have been addressed. For Dovetailors, it’s a change that supports the people behind the craft as much as the craft itself.
“Now we can enjoy the scent of the wood,” Ethan says, “without worrying what’s floating in the air.”
