Our Beginnings
In the early 1980s, our journey began high in the Dublin Mountains, where we started the first operations of our sawmill. In 1986, husband & wife, Henry and Shirley O’Kelly officially founded O’Kelly’s Sawmill & The Shed Man, laying the foundations for what would later become Timbertrove - a family-run business built on craftsmanship, hard work, and community spirit.
For over 39 years, Timbertrove has grown and evolved, adapting to the times while staying true to our roots in the Dublin Mountains.
Established our name as a top quality service provider
O'Kelly's Sawmill & The Shed Man continues to grow as we establish ourselves in the industry as high quality manufacturers.
Over the years, our customer base grows and we begin to gain trust, winning us various larger projects. In addition to private work, we were busy working on specially commissioned projects such as this playground at Dublin Zoo, in addition to huge construction site jobs while the industry is booming.
Our company evolved and we adapted to the times, while staying true to our roots in the Dublin Mountains.
Interview exact below from the Business Finance newspaper in 1998 with Henry O'Kelly, Director.
wins and loses for the company as challenges strike
Over the coming years, we face many serious challenges which almost put the company out business.
In 2002, we become the face of a Hibernian advertisement campaign (pictured right) after they saved us during an insurance crisis. Our premium sky-rocketed and we were two days from closing our doors when we finally found a solution with them.
We win big at the SFA Awards in 2006 (pictured below) when we were awarded first place in the Manufacturing category. A huge achievement for us after the hard work we had invested in making the highest quality timber products on the market, which working to streamline our production processes.
Little did we know, the business was about to take a turn for the worse as we approached a worldwide recession.
A turning point to save the business
When the construction sector collapsed in 2009, disaster struck - our sales disappeared overnight. But as one chapter closed, another opened. With more walkers and cyclists visiting the nearby Hell Fire Club and Massy’s Wood, we began serving coffee and home-baked treats from our yard. What started as a small idea soon became something special.
Timbertrove approaches 40 years in business
The company steadily grew and regained its strength following the financial crisis and the opening of the cafe. The company's best selling product is now our famous Timbertrove Scone!
The next generation of the company are involved in different ways - Danielle is the Business Development Director, Conor has his own company O'Kelly Contracts which works alongside Timbertrove, and Ciara works in the creative side of the business.
The company continues to serve the Irish market with top quality timber products whilst being a popular destination for delicious homemade food and coffee.
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Timbertrove
"The Story of Timbertrove" Book is backordered and will ship as soon as it is back in stock.