Chatting with James Griffiths
We’re chatting with James Griffiths, Director at Portman Stone, a company renowned for its exquisite stone worktops and surfaces.
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To kick things off, can you tell us how Portman Stone got started? What inspired the creation of the company, and what was the vision in those early days?
Portman Stone’s story began not in kitchen worktops but in limestone and marble fireplace production. Originally a fireplace factory, the company specialised in crafting elegant, high-quality pieces for homes. However, as trends shifted and demand for fireplaces naturally declined, we saw an opportunity to adapt.
With the right machinery already in place and a passion for working with stone, we transitioned into creating bespoke stone worktops. This pivot allowed us to leverage our craftsmanship and expertise in stone to meet the growing demand for kitchen worktops. Today, we’re proud to serve the Dorset community and beyond, offering premium local worktops for kitchens, bathrooms, and more.
Portman Stone is known for beautiful stone countertops and surfaces – could you give us an overview of the main services you offer?
We specialise in bespoke stone fabrication and installation, offering a wide range of services including kitchen worktops, bathroom vanities, and bespoke surfaces such as custom table tops for residential and commercial spaces.
Our services cover every step of the process, from the initial phone call or visit to our showroom, to sourcing and installing your new stone surfaces, ensuring a seamless experience for all our customers.
What makes working with natural stone so special, and what are some of the unique qualities of the materials you work with at Portman Stone?
Natural stone is truly one of a kind; no two pieces are ever the same. Each slab has its own unique character, veining, and colour variations, making every project a personalised work of art. At Portman Stone, we pride ourselves on working with the finest quality stones, including granite, marble, and engineered stone.
Our Sergio Range, for example, has been meticulously curated over the years to ensure it meets the highest standards of quality. These engineered stones offer both beauty and durability while keeping up with modern design trends. We’re always ahead of the curve, selecting colours and finishes that are in high demand to ensure our clients’ projects are as timeless as they are stylish.
What do you think really sets Portman Stone apart from other companies in the industry? What’s your unique edge?
Our commitment to quality and customer service is at the core of what we do. We offer a personalised service from start to finish, with all our work carried out in-house, ensuring that customers are supported at every step of their journey. Our expertise, combined with our focus on understanding our customer’ visions, sets us apart and ensures each installation is perfect for its space.
The process of choosing and installing stone surfaces can be quite personal. How does Portman Stone guide clients through that journey to find exactly what they’re looking for?
We offer a personalised consultation process where we take time to understand our clients’ style preferences, functional needs, and budget. From there, we guide them through options, from selecting the perfect stone to choosing the ideal finish. Our team is always on hand to answer questions and provide advice, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
As you reflect on Portman Stone’s growth, what have been some key moments or turning points that have shaped the company’s path?
One key turning point was our investment in advanced CNC machinery, allowing us to improve precision and efficiency in our stone fabrication. Expanding our range of stones and finishes has also been instrumental in broadening our offerings. These moments, along with our growing client base, have solidified our reputation in the industry.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Portman Stone? Are there any exciting projects, expansions, or goals you’re particularly excited about in the coming years?
We’re incredibly excited about the arrival of our new CNC machine in January, along with other cutting-edge equipment that will enhance the quality of our work. This advanced technology will refine every stage of our process—from templating to cutting and installation—delivering exceptional results every time. Looking ahead, we’re eager to strengthen collaborations with designers and architects, embracing new opportunities to innovate and explore the possibilities of craftsmanship and design.
How is Portman Stone addressing sustainability concerns in the worktop industry, and what specific actions are they taking to reduce environmental impacts?
We prioritise sustainability by bulk buying slabs directly from the source, cutting CO2 emissions from long-distance transport. By working with local kitchen companies, recycling water, minimising waste, and offering eco-friendly options like recycled glass worktops, we’re leading the way in creating a greener future for our industry and customers.
If you’re searching for stunning, high-quality worktops on the South Coast, paired with exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, look no further than Portman Stone. Whether you’re replacing kitchen worktops or managing a full renovation, their team is here to bring your vision to life. Working with both residential clients and trade professionals, they ensure every project is tailored to meet your specific needs, combining expertise with a seamless process to achieve outstanding results.
Contact Portman Stone today to explore our premium range and experience the Portman Stone difference.
CONTACT
Tel. 01202 484340
Email. [email protected]
1 Airfield Way, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 3PE
