Are We Bespoke? The Real Story Behind Our Craft

At Salthouse Stonemasonry we are often asked whether our work can be described as “bespoke”. The short answer is yes. We design and create individual stone features for clients, including fireplaces, architectural mouldings, hand carved plaques and one off commissions. Every piece is carefully planned, measured and shaped to suit the needs of the project.

However, the true identity of our craft goes far beyond the idea of simply being “bespoke”. The heart of our work lies in traditional stonemasonry techniques, particularly hand tooled finishes that give each stone surface its own character. These heritage methods form the backbone of our business and allow us to produce stonework with an individuality that machinery can never replicate.

Much of our inspiration comes directly from historic buildings. When we begin a project, we study existing stone surfaces, original tooling patterns, mouldings and aged textures. These details guide our approach and help us understand how past masons shaped the building. Recreating or complementing these traditional elements ensures that our work does not feel modern or out of place. Instead, it blends seamlessly with the fabric of the property and protects the historic character that makes it special.

Our team has grown over recent years and with it a strong culture of respect for traditional craft. Everyone at Salthouse Stonemasonry values the importance of natural materials, careful workmanship and the patience required to tool stone by hand. This shared commitment ensures consistency across all of our projects, whether we are carving a detailed plaque, shaping a new fireplace or restoring a historic feature.

We have also expanded the range of quarries we work with. This is essential for clients who want stone that matches the age, colour and texture of their building. By sourcing from a wider variety of quarries, we can offer stone with subtle differences in grain and tone, allowing us to create finishes that fit naturally within a historic or contemporary setting. This flexibility is especially valuable for conservation stonework where accuracy and sensitivity are vital.

Our approach is rooted in listening. We listen to the building, its history and the materials that define it. We listen to our clients and help translate their ideas into carefully crafted stone features that will stand the test of time. The outcome is not just a bespoke commission but a piece of work shaped by tradition, knowledge and skill.

The individuality of our stonework comes not from the idea of being bespoke, but from the way we carve, tool and shape the material by hand. Every surface carries the mark of genuine craftsmanship. Every detail reflects an understanding of heritage stonemasonry. This is what sets Salthouse Stonemasonry apart and what continues to guide our work for the future.

For clients seeking handcrafted stone features, traditional restoration or unique pieces inspired by historic architecture, our team is ready to help. Contact us to discuss your project and discover how hand tooled stonework can enhance the character and longevity of your building.

www.salthousestonemasonry.co.uk

info@salthousestonemasonry.co.uk