“Using Microvellum has shown us how investing in technology can truly streamline our workflow,” says Design Dimensions. From hand-drawn designs to cutting-edge automation, Design Dimensions is evolving – embracing technology to redefine bespoke woodworking.
Founded in 1990 by Ken Hopes, Design Dimensions has spent over 35 years delivering high-end residential projects, including kitchens, bedrooms, and wardrobes, as well as commercial work like reception counters, offices, and restaurants.
In the early 2000s, Luke Tomkins and Carl Harvey began their careers at Design Dimensions as apprentices. Seeing the company as a long-term opportunity, they worked their way up and eventually purchased the business together in 2019.
Upon taking ownership, Luke and Carl carefully evaluated the company’s operations and identified critical areas for improvement. Traditional methods – like hand-drawn designs, wall saws, table saws, and manually drilling drawer runners and shelf holes – were no longer efficient.
“We also knew we had to improve communication with the shop,” Luke explains. “For every job, we had to personally relay production instructions. Not only did this slow down manufacturing, but it also caused frequent mistakes.”
In addition to operational inefficiencies, finding skilled workers who shared their standards and vision proved challenging, highlighting the need to leverage technology for enhanced production. These challenges drove Luke and Carl to seek innovative ways to optimise their workflow.
Their search led them to a Biesse Open House, where they discovered Microvellum, an AutoCAD-based design-to-manufacturing software. It immediately stood out as the solution to many of their challenges, including employee shortages, manual drafting, estimating, and the need for greater customisation.
“We needed software that allows us to customise any cabinet down to the smallest detail – and Microvellum does that and more!” shares Luke. Along with adopting Microvellum, they invested in a Biesse Rover A TF 2231, further modernising their operations.
Since implementing Microvellum, Design Dimensions has seen a transformative impact on their manufacturing process. The software has enabled them to tackle more complex and unique projects, streamline operations, and boost efficiency. Detailed drawings and reports have minimised communication barriers between design and manufacturing teams, fostering stronger collaboration and significantly reducing errors.
“We’ve significantly improved efficiency in our manufacturing process. Now, we can design highly bespoke rooms and communicate these designs to our fabricators much more easily,” states Luke. They can seamlessly incorporate custom elements such as curved designs, banquette seating, and other unique products.
The expansion of the Face Frame Library within Microvellum has been equally transformative, saving hours of work and automating many aspects of their process. While face frame designs have always been part of their offerings, this enhanced product library has drastically reduced production time. It empowers them to bid confidently on any project, knowing they have the tools to complete jobs faster and with greater accuracy.
Time efficiency and precision have seen dramatic improvement, allowing Design Dimensions to complete five to six projects per month, while keeping their 20 employees consistently busy. “Although we are completely new to CNC technology and software, one major advantage has been Microvellum’s outstanding customer service,” says Luke. “Whenever we have an issue – whether technical or just a question about functionality – Daniel, Martin, or Colin are always incredibly responsive. When you’re mid-project and stuck, this level of support makes all the difference, making Microvellum a trusted partner for our business.”
Microvellum University (MVU), with its extensive online learning resources, has also played a pivotal role in helping Luke and Carl get started. “Being able to watch videos, rewind, and replay has been incredibly helpful,” Luke explains. Additionally, in-person training sessions and opportunities to learn from others were invaluable in setting them up for success. As they grow, they continue to refine their skills and expand their knowledge.
Looking ahead, Design Dimensions is excited about what’s next with their new tools and the company’s fresh direction. Their focus is simple: keep improving efficiency and drive growth with the help of innovative technology.
