Louis Francis Calmels established his metalwork business L.F. Calmels in 1925. He was a master craftsman and made highly detailed pieces, including lead castings and decorative brasswork.

Louis Francis's son, Robert Louis Calmels, acquired the current business' site in 1956, taking over a row of Victorian houses on Southville, London SW8 and converting them into a metalworks.

Robert created a highly successful business, supplying John Lewis with a range of furniture and becoming well known for his elaborate film and theatrical stage sets.

After qualifying as an engineer, Robert's son, Louis, learned his trade in the Calmels family workshop and in time took over the business. His list of achievements includes several successful furniture ranges; collaborations with many leading designers and artists; the design of a unique orrery, produced in conjunction with an international magazine publisher and sold throughout the world; and the design and launch of Khôra Spaces, a range of unique glass and metal structures incorporating the company's signature curved glass Dome and engineered to the highest standards, using the best quality materials. The Khôra Dome premiered at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2014, winning two prestigious awards.