Tim went to work in and eventually to chair Charles Hammond, the Sloane Street firm of London interior designers, founded in 1907 by his grandfather. The firm was one of the principal originators of the "country house" style.
With the help of his brothers he steered the firm through challenging times while sustaining what was, for the trade, a uniquely extensive infrastructure, retaining all crafts and skills in-house and a factory in Chelsea.
Its reputation for fine craftsmanship brought commissions not only from the great country houses of Britain, but from clients in the Middle East, Europe and the United States. He retired as chairman in 1989.