About Us
How it started
In 2023, co-founder Chris’s ‘premium’ bike shed was in bad shape, just a couple years after purchase. On inspection he found mold, cracks, a disintegrating roof covering, trim falling off, poorly weathered wood and a damp floor. For all the talk of quality, at the end of the day it was just a single-skin shed. Together with friend Matt, who happened to be in the construction industry, they set about harnessing construction techniques to create a better way to store valuable items outside.
How it's going
After countless redesigns and do-overs, plus purchasing what felt like every tool on the planet, the first Stow rolled out of Matt’s garage in late 2023. Many admiring glances followed, word spread and both neighbours and friends requested Stow’s of their own. In 2024 Stow was officially born. After a whirlwind start there’s a new website, upgraded workshop and some bigger tools to help meet demand. Both Chris & Matt remain fully commited to ensuring every single customer loves their Stow, both now and in many years time.
Inspiration
The inspiration for the Stow shape came from a trip to the USA and the ‘Saltbox’ houses popular in New England. These evolved from a typically shaped ‘Cape Cod’ house when people looked to extend the roof down to create extra space. Their open plan structure is supported by heavy ridge posts at each of the gable ends. This is the same basic structure we use for each Stow, combined with modern construction techniques.
Handmade
We’re obsessive about quality and treating each Stow with the same care we would show if we were building a house. Each Stow is made by hand in Hampshire using proven construction techniques and materials.
Naturally sustainable
Unlike plastic or metal outdoor storage options, Stows are made of predominantly wood. The timber frame is FSC certified and the Douglas Fir is locally sourced. The Stainless Steel hardware is recyclable and as all deliveries are installations, there is no packaging waste.
Built to last
Each Stow is built to last a very long time. That’s why they all include a waterproof membrane, 2 layers of battoning between the cladding and the structure (to allow the wood to breathe and dry), a solid OSB (orientated strand board) internal cell and modern construction techniques. A 5-year warranty covering faults relating to manufacture is also provided as standard.