Design Buy Build Issue 81 2026 | Page 28

BATHROOMS & KITCHENS

PWS ANNOUNCED AS ONE OF THE FIRST FABRICATORS TO RECEIVE THE WFF’ S QUALITY MARK

PWS, market-leading UK manufacturer and fabricator of quality bespoke worksurfaces, is one of the first businesses to officially receive the new Quality Mark accreditation from the Worktop Fabrication Federation( WFF).
PWS has been instrumental in setting the standard for best practice, working closely with the WFF to lead the industry benchmark for fabrication standards across the sector. The new quality mark introduces a structured framework for fabrication businesses to ensure commitment to operational excellence, and workforce protection.
CHRIS WRAGG, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE DANESMOOR GROUP:
“ We have always encouraged a culture of responsibility and continuous improvement in the sector, so to be announced as one of the first businesses to be awarded the Quality Mark from the WFF is an honour. The introduction of this accreditation will transform the industry, ensuring that customers now have full visibility and transparency of leading, well invested fabricators that they can trust to uphold the best safety and working practices for their employees. We are
delighted to be recognised for our strong internal processes, and robust health and safety measures. This new landmark guidance is a positive step forward for the industry and we fully support measures that raise standards and encourage best practice.”
www. pws. co. uk / section / worksurfaces 01325 505599

IS SHAKER STILL THE MOST POPULAR KITCHEN STYLE? INSIGHT FROM LIFE TRADE

Long admired for its simplicity, versatility and timeless appeal, the Shaker door has dominated British kitchens for decades – but bolder design choices and growing interest in contemporary finishes are starting to reshape the market.
Head of Life Trade, Paul Berryman, discusses this classic style and explores how today’ s preferences are changing and what this means for the future of the Shaker:
WHY ARE SHAKER KITCHENS SO POPULAR?
“ A Shaker style strikes the perfect balance between everyday practicality and timeless design. Shaker doors are extremely adaptable when it comes to finishes and colours, so whether a customer wants a soft pastel kitchen, a bold contemporary colour or a more natural woodgrain look, Shaker doors provide a flexible foundation that can be tailored to almost any taste. In addition, the design is robust, easy to maintain and suits a wide range of budgets.”
WHAT IS YOUR MOST POPULAR SHAKER LOOK?
“ Our most popular Shaker ranges span from the Belsay door- available in smooth, woodgrain, and beaded finishes- to the timeless Mornington range, offered in 35 vibrant colours, along with Shaker, beaded, and the new false in-frame Vale option. The recent addition of our Oak finish in the Mornington Shaker and Mornington Vale collections provides even greater versatility, catering to customers seeking both traditional Shaker kitchens and more modern, industrialinspired designs.”
HOW HAS THE CLASSIC SHAKER KITCHEN DEVELOPED & CHANGED?
“ We have seen notable shifts, particularly in frame widths and detailing over the past few years. There has been a trend toward reducing frame sizes, reflecting a more contemporary aesthetic. For example, our most popular Shaker door from a few years ago, Milbourne, featured a 115mm frame, but its more modern successor, Belsay, now offers a slimmer 94mm frame.”
WHAT DO YOU SEE FOR THE FUTURE OF SHAKER STYLE?
“ Looking at the industry, we are seeing a move towards even slimmer profiles, with designs such as skinny or micro-Shaker designs, as well as the return of the traditional Tea Tray style. These shifts highlight the ongoing evolution of Shaker-inspired cabinetry, blending timeless appeal with modern minimalism.”
www. life-trade. co. uk
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