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Above left: There has been greater interest in classic kitchen styles such as Shaker or in-frame; this kitchen was designed by retailer Angel Interiors Above right: Stoneham’s Latitude range
manufacturer and, ending the year on a high, we were awarded the new Royal Warrant “by appointment to His Majesty the King”.
TTJ: HAVE WIDER ECONOMIC CHALLENGES IMPACTED BUSINESS AND THE PRICE BUYERS ARE WILLING TO PAY? AS: Early indications are that the start of 2025 will be a slightly tougher market. However, reports of the economy growing in the last quarter of 2024 and the drop in interest rates is certainly positive and could impact purchasing decisions. We remain optimistic these changes will boost the market.
TTJ: HAS STONEHAM BEEN ABLE TO PASS ON HIGHER COSTS TO THE BUYER? AS: We had to increase [prices] in 2024 due to the rising costs in materials, components and so on. We have limited these increases wherever possible and customers tend to understand the reason for price increases, so fortunately this hasn’t impacted sales.
TTJ: HAS STONEHAM KITCHENS CONTINUED TO INVEST? AS: We made significant investments in two Homag CNC machines in recent years. These allow complex cutting and unique shaping of solid timber and panels ensuring great precision for kitchen projects. We continue to keep up to date with the latest technology on the market and if we see capabilities that could enhance manufacturing facilities then investment wouldn’t be out of the question.
TTJ: WHAT HAVE BEEN KEY KITCHEN STYLE TRENDS IN THE LAST YEAR? AS: Warm neutrals were particularly popular in 2024 and are here to stay. Shades such as cream, soft pink, taupe, greige and beige are just some of the neutrals prominent in kitchen design. It isn’t surprising these tones have been popular, as they suit all kitchen styles
and can easily be paired with other colours and materials.
In contrast, rich shades such as dark blues, forest and emerald greens and black have been key colour trends for those wanting bolder kitchens. We’ve also seen a greater interest in classic kitchen styles such as Shaker or in-frame design over the past year. These timeless styles combine quality craftsmanship and elegant detail, which is why they are very sought-after.
TTJ: IS THE WORKING FROM HOME TREND STILL INFLUENCING KITCHEN DESIGN AND FEATURES REQUIRED? AS: Hybrid working is very common so there is still a need for features to aid at-home working. However, what we’ve found is that features that were once in demand for at- home working have become essential for all types of buyers. Pop-up sockets and charging drawers are a great example of this. Not only are they great for powering up laptops but they are used for any device in the home.
TTJ: ARCHITECTS TALK ABOUT THE TREND TO BIOPHILIC DESIGN AND WELL-BEING CONSIDERATIONS DRIVING A DESIRE FOR USE OF MORE NATURAL MATERIALS IN BUILDING. ARE YOU SEEING THIS IN THE KITCHEN SECTOR? AS: The whole concept of biophilic design, bringing as much nature into the home as possible, as well as connecting to the outside is certainly impacting a desire for natural materials and natural colours in kitchen design. That said, we’ve seen elements of this in kitchen design for some time. Skylights and large bi-fold doors that let in lots of natural light and open to connect the kitchen with the garden are very common. Oak enhanced grains on cabinets and floating shelves are also popular for incorporating natural elements. Many customers like to decorate their kitchens and living spaces
with indoor plants to further enhance that connection with nature.
TTJ: WHAT ARE LATEST TRENDS IN TERMS OF TIMBER AND WOOD PRODUCTS USE IN KITCHEN DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE? AS: A large percentage of our customers have chosen painted kitchens for their designs, however, we also get many orders for painted cabinets with timber accents, as well as kitchens using wood throughout. We are particularly seeing a resurgence for limed oak cabinetry, which was popular 15 years ago. The grains on this lighter timber provide an elegant finish. In contrast, American black walnut is popular for its richness and stunning grains. We also often use oak for feature units such as bars and islands. In terms of worktops we are finding that quartz worktops are favoured over wooden due to the wide choice of colour and detail available. The veined, marble effect for instance is very popular.
TTJ: WHAT HAVE BEEN THE TRENDS IN TIMBER PRICES OVER THE LAST YEAR AND HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED ANY ISSUES WITH SUPPLY/AVAILABILITY? AS: American black walnut and American white oak have risen in price significantly in recent years, and these prices could be impacted further if Donald Trump’s impending tariff threat on imports from the UK are offset by import tariffs on American goods.
TTJ: WHAT IS YOUR OUTLOOK FOR 2025 AND BEYOND? AS: This year we are continuing to work with our retailers, introducing new designs and innovative storage solutions so they remain key contenders in this competitive industry. We are also looking to expand our brand awareness through new marketing channels. ■
www.ttjonline.com | March/April 2025 | TTJ
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