For housebuilders working in an industry where quality is paramount, finding a reliable supplier that can meet all your needs can be a significant challenge.
With that in mind, we got in touch with one manufacturer and supplier that has been shaking up the bespoke hardwood market for over a decade, offering a comprehensive range of products that caters to even the most complex needs of architects, and developers across the UK.
Founded in 2007 to handle overflow from a local joinery company, Buckinghamshire-based Country Hardwood has grown exponentially over the years, evolving into a leading manufacturer and supplier of bespoke timber windows, doors, conservatories and more.
“Our journey has been one of constant evolution,” Mark Osborne, Managing Director of Country Hardwood reflects. “We started with conservatories and gradually expanded our range to cover all external joinery needs for any property or project.”
“One of our main strengths now as a company is that we offer a complete package,” Osborne adds. “Whether our customers require beautiful bespoke architectural roof lanterns or traditional Georgian-style sash windows for a restoration project, we can provide it.”
Reframing timber
When it comes to manufacturing timber products, expertise is everything. Often considered the most premium material, timber continues to be sought after for the most luxurious of projects. However, creating timber products that stand the test of time requires exceptional craftsmanship. Country Hardwood’s manufacturing process is best described as a careful balance between tradition and innovation. While these may seem like two opposing forces, it’s this perfect balance that allows the manufacturer to offer beautifully crafted timber products on a large scale.
Combining time-honoured woodworking techniques with cutting-edge technology, Country Hardwood produces windows, doors, bifolds, orangeries, conservatories, and roof lanterns that are as durable as they are beautiful. At the heart of the manufacturer’s success is a team of 18 highly skilled artisans, many of whom have been with the company since its inception.
This wealth of experience is complemented by significant investments in state-of-the-art technology, including a recent £700,000 acquisition of a one-of-a-kind CNC machine. “We’ve always believed in combining traditional woodworking techniques with advanced manufacturing processes,” Osborne explains. “Our new CNC machinery allows us to produce joinery with precision and provide consistently exceptional quality.”
Over the years, Country Hardwood has continued to innovate, even with a material as timeless as timber. “We’re dedicated to developing our products in response to the evolving requirements of developers, and architects. We recently introduced a wrap-around locking system that is completely unique to us – this ensures that our timber windows and doors are more secure than ever before.”
“A few years ago we also introduced an Oak-lookalike hardwood that’s soaring in popularity,” Osborne shares. “It offers the aesthetic appeal of oak without the premium price tag, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality on a budget.”
Sustainable luxury
In recent years, the construction industry has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainable materials, and so housebuilders and architects are increasingly recognising the environmental benefits and aesthetic appeal of timber. Country Hardwood is well-positioned to meet this growing demand: “Our entire product range is crafted with FSC-certified timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, making our products ideal for environmentally-conscious developments.”
Better still, sustainability doesn’t come at the cost of quality. On the contrary, Country Hardwood’s bespoke approach ensures that each product is fully customisable, making them ideal for high end projects that demand unique specifications. “We understand that every project is unique,” Osborne states. “That’s why we offer fully bespoke solutions, from dimensions to finishes. Our in-house CAD design team can bring even the most ambitious visions to life.”
Osborne is optimistic about the future of Country Hardwood: “We’re constantly innovating and improving our offerings. Our R&D team is always working on new ways to fine tune our products and processes.”
While Country Hardwood’s primary focus is the UK market, their reputation for quality has attracted international attention. “We’ve recently shipped to Argentina, Spain, Japan, and France,” Osborne shares. “However, our heart remains in the UK. We’re committed to supporting British craftsmanship and keeping our manufacturing local.” Osborne adds that “Every product we supply carries with it the passion, skill, and dedication of our entire team. We invite trade professionals to join us in bringing the timeless beauty and sustainability of timber to projects across the UK and beyond.”
