In collaboration with Darren King of Bagpress, Chilfen Joinery now provides an expanded range of innovative and quality joinery solutions to various sectors. We are announcing today that we have added a curved vacuum laminating and veneering service to our solutions. This state-of-the-art technique enables us to provide high-quality commercial joinery that can cater to personalised requirements in both high-end residential and large-scale commercial projects.

What Are Curved Vacuum Laminations?

Vacuum lamination is the process of bending and shaping wood laminates, mainly thin plywood, MDF or constructional veneers, in a vacuum press utilising atmospheric pressure, to create intricate, curved shapes that would otherwise be difficult, time consuming, and therefore expensive to manufacture by other means.

Chilfen Joinery is now capable of producing custom curved panels and components swiftly, and cost-effectively, by leveraging innovative laminating technologies by partnering with Bagpress, a market leader in curved vacuum laminating, thus gaining accessing to well over 20 years of specialist manufacturing experience. These technologies include large-format vacuum presses and 4-axis CNC hot wire cutting of polystyrene press formers.

Redefining the Cost of Curves—Precision Meets Affordability

Our method combines the accuracy of CNC technology and the adaptability of vacuum pressing to produce complex curved panels, including conical shapes, that were challenging, expensive or even impossible to produce through traditional means. This technique has the benefit of being, not only faster than conventional methods, but also more affordable, perfect for bespoke and lower-volume joinery projects as well as larger production runs.

Why Use Chilfen Joinery for Curved Vacuum Laminations?

Affordable Innovation: Conventional methods of forming shaped components such as hydraulic pressing, or through using two part male /female formers, involve costly tooling and set up charges and the processes have significant limitations on the size of component that can be produced. Our methods provide a very high degree of accuracy while saving you money through the use of much lower cost polystyrene tooling.

Unparalleled Flexibility: This production process is incredibly flexible and can be used to press components as small as a salad server to panels measuring 1.3m x 3.1m and beyond. The 4-axis hotwire cutter used to make our forms and also easily cuts complex forms such as cones, and regular or irregular wave forms. The freedom of design that is afforded by the possibilities of this process is especially beneficial for architects, designers, and contractors who need adaptable and personalised solutions to match specific designs based on imagination and artistic flare rather than the limitations of traditional manufacturing processes.

Quick Turnaround: Time is crucial, whether during the design or production stages. Through our rapid CNC mould making capabilities, we can quickly produce sample sections or components to enable designers to make early decisions relating to material choice and geometries avoiding later delays and setbacks during implementation. This instant turnaround allows you to finalise designs faster, ensuring projects stay on track by eliminating possible issues early in the design process.

Benefits of Using Curved Laminations

1. Attractive Design: Curved shapes have a distinct visual appeal that may transform any room. From welcome desks to wall panelling, our solution allows you to create elegant, flowing designs that enhance the appearance of a space and which can also add to acoustic performance.
2. Durability: Our panels and components are not just built to look good; they are designed to last, using the best materials and techniques available. We pride ourselves on supplying functional and long-lasting pieces of customised joinery.
3. Design Integration: We endeavour to create a design that integrates seamlessly into the intended space. Whether it’s a commercial joinery piece for an office fit-out or a piece of residential joinery for a custom home build, we ensure a perfect match that will complement the design holistically.

Applications Across Sectors

Our curved laminations service is versatile and can be employed across many sectors:

High-end Residential Projects: From staircases to feature walls, the use of curved wood panels will add an elegant and luxurious finishing touch to every home.

Commercial Spaces: In retail and office spaces, hospitality and entertainment venues, curved forms can create a dynamic and welcoming environment. When considering reception desks, column casings, shelving, counters, and custom-made furniture, the possibilities for incorporating curved elements in unique and functional designs are endless.

Education and Institutional Projects: Our refined, curved laminations can be tailored to suit various educational projects, including libraries, auditoria and activity areas.

Sustainability is Vital

As a sustainable construction company, Chilfen Joinery takes a lead role in adopting environmentally friendly approaches. Our curved laminations use sustainable processes that minimise energy and materials. Our clients can be assured of achieving their environmental goals without having to compromise design or quality.

Your Next Step: Get in Touch

Whether you require bespoke joinery for commercial and residential projects with a need for design and project management services, Chilfen Joinery offers a comprehensive package. Our curved laminations provide a value-engineered solution that is cost-effective, efficient, and adheres to the high-quality standards expected from a leading joinery supplier.

For further information on how our curved laminations service can benefit your next project, please contact us.

Chilfen Joinery—Your Trusted Partner for Project Success.

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In March 2025, the UK Government launched the Timber in Construction Roadmap, reinforcing its commitment to timber as a sustainable building material. The roadmap outlines clear steps for the construction industry to reduce carbon emissions and adopt greener practices.

At the same time, global timber prices have been affected by exchange rate fluctuations, making procurement and cost planning more challenging. Added to this, new tariffs on imported materials, especially timber, aluminium, and steel, are expected to impact the UK construction sector later in 2025. According to the Oxford College of Procurement and Supply, these tariffs could increase costs across the joinery supply chain.  CLA Connect also warns that tighter margins and customs delays may slow down projects.

With these developments alongside fluctuating interest rates, inflation, labour shortages, and ongoing supply chain pressures, construction professionals must plan ahead and adapt to stay competitive.

Understanding the Key Economic Drivers in 2025

Interest Rates and Inflation Trends: The Bank of England recently estimated that interest rates will be high until at least 2026 to control inflation. This has implications for construction and joinery businesses, such as increased financing costs for projects and less purchasing power for clients.

Labour Shortages: There is a continuing skills shortage within the UK construction industry and is set to continue. This increases wages and can cause project delays if planning is not done from the start of a project.

Supply Chain Challenges: Although global supply chain disruptions are decreasing compared to earlier levels, they are still some concerns due to geo-political tensions. Construction professionals are advised to adopt an agile approach to materials procurement and invest in developing a broad and dependable supplier network to reduce risk.

Government Initiatives: The Timber in Construction Roadmap, launched in 2025, contains new commitments to increase the use of timber and enforce sustainable practices. Construction companies must align with these standards while maintaining cost and time efficiencies.

At Chilfen Joinery, we believe in staying ahead by turning challenges into opportunities. Here’s how businesses can prepare for 2025:

Strategies To Prepare for Economic Shifts

1. Sustainable and flexible procurement should be prioritised.

With timber legislation becoming more stringent and sustainability playing a significant role in project success, collaborating with manufacturers such as Chilfen Joinery, who comply with UK and EU timber regulations, is becoming more important. Ensuring chain of custody, responsible sourcing, and adherence to the regulations will keep projects compliant and future-ready.

2. Strengthen Financial Forecasting and Risk Management

Conducting regular reviews of commercial models and pricing structures will help you negotiate increased costs caused by changes in interest rates, inflation, and tariffs. Working with a joinery partner who offers clear, precise tenders and can value-engineer designs can ensure commercial feasibility from the start of a project.

3. Leverage Expertise

Construction and fit-out professionals’ benefit from working with a skilled partner. If bespoke joinery solutions are required, working with Chilfen Joinery can ensure precision and a high standard of work. Our integrated approach reduces rework, supports quicker approvals, and delivers accurate samples, critical in a high-cost environment.

4. Embrace Digital Design and Project Collaboration Tools

Using CAD design and CNC-led production, Chilfen Joinery, achieves consistency and accuracy on every project. Additionally, developing digital workflows can help address labour shortages by spending less time on-site, a key advantage as workforce availability remains constrained.

5. Develop Long-Term Relationships with Suppliers and Subcontractors

Developing trusted supplier partnerships can minimise the risk of disruptions in the supply chain. We nurture strategic supply partnerships at Chilfen Joinery to ensure a consistent flow of materials to our customers, particularly in the commercial joinery and residential joinery markets.

Why Chilfen Joinery is a Trusted Partner

Chilfen Joinery is a partner who can provide scalable bespoke joinery solutions in line with design and budgetary requirements. From intelligent design, precision-led manufacturing and our dedicated customer service, we supply high-quality joinery products for complex builds. We know our clients require a responsive, straightforward and flexible partner, whether they are managing costs, chasing approvals, or installing on a demanding programme, and teams at Chilfen Joinery offer all this and more.

In 2025, economic pressures will challenge the construction industry’s resilience. However, construction professionals can remain resilient if they follow the right strategies. Businesses that invest in collaborative partnerships, proactive procurement, and precision-led solutions won’t just survive the shifts — they’ll thrive in them.

Contact us to see how Chilfen Joinery can support your next project.

Chilfen Joinery—Your Trusted Partner for Project Success.

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Quality assurance should be at the centre of all bespoke joinery projects, ensuring all projects adhere to rigorous standards from design to readiness for installation. At Chilfen Joinery, we believe that implementing joinery best practices will ensure project success as well as enhance the durability and aesthetics of the joinery work.

These are the best practices we adhere to for each project:

Ensuring Quality When Selecting Materials

The selection of materials forms the basis of any successful commercial joinery project. Sustainable compliance and performance begin with materials.

Our key considerations when choosing materials include:

• Sustainability: We source materials from suppliers compliant with environmental legislation, such as the UK Timber Regulations, which promote responsible forestry practices.
• Durability and Suitability: Materials selected for the project should align with the project’s requirements as well as environmental conditions.
• Aesthetic Compatibility: We pick materials that align with the design vision, ensuring consistency with the aesthetic goals of the project.

At Chilfen Joinery, we are careful to use only the best materials that adhere to these standards, ensuring your bespoke joinery solutions look appealing and are durable.

From Precision Concepts to Manufacturing

Accurate designs are key to a project. Design is especially critical to prevent mistakes and rework, which can be costly if not highlighted and resolved at this early stage.

Our best practices include:

• Comprehensive CAD Drawings: CAD drawings are provided with precise dimensions and directives that can be followed by both manufacturing teams and on-site contractors.
• Collaborative Development: We encourage communication between designers and manufacturers so that designs are practical and manufacturable.
• Prototyping: Pre-production samples are provided to verify designs and materials to confirm the final product meets full specifications.

Utilising cutting-edge CAD technology and working closely with our clients throughout the entire process, Chilfen Joinery can produce accurate, practical designs and smoothly carry them through to production.

Successful Joinery Installations Include Planning

Proper pre-installation planning is essential to ensure the smooth delivery of joinery installation services.

At Chilfen Joinery, we only provide installation services for residential projects. Our key steps include:

• Site Surveys: A survey is done, if necessary, to confirm the measurements and challenges that will be faced during the installation at the site.
• Logistics Planning: Deliveries are scheduled in accordance with the construction schedule to reduce disruption on-site.
• Compliance Authentication: We ensure that all joinery products conform to the appropriate safety and building standards before installation.

Chilfen Joinery ensures the joinery project management keeps on track and within budget.

Ensuring Installation Quality On-Site

The installation phase is when all the painstaking planning, coupled with high-quality materials, finally comes together into a successful project.

Our best practices include:

• Expert Installers: We partner with expert joinery installation services who specialise in fitting and aligning joinery accurately.
• Effective Communication: Communication is key between the site manager and installers and project teams to ensure any problems that arise are quickly addressed.
• Problem-Solving Mindset: We ensure we are flexible with design adaptations or schedules to adjust to unexpected issues as the installation proceeds.

Chilfen Joinery partners with skilled and trusted subcontractors for all installations. We work closely with each contractor who are always fully managed and under the guidance of our project management team.

Post-Installation Review

It is essential to carry out a thorough review after installation to ensure that all high-quality joinery products satisfy the client’s specifications for the construction project.

This process should include:

• Analysing Project Outcomes: A visual and functional assessment will measure structural integrity, surface quality, and compliance with design specifications.
• Stakeholder Feedback: Collecting input from clients and other stakeholders to analyse what went well and what can be improved for future projects.
• Documentation: Maintaining detailed records that log the actions taken in case this information is needed later for reasons of compliance or as a reference point.

At Chilfen Joinery, we operate with a “Right First Time” ethos, ensuring that our bespoke joinery solutions are delivered to the highest standards, minimising the need for rework and encouraging client confidence.

Continuous Improvement

Quality assurance should be a continuous process that constantly evolves and improves. Our process includes:

• Assessing Project Results: Looking at completed projects and see what went well and what can be improved.
• Create Feedback Loops: Design processes that allow us to collect and act on feedback from clients and team members.
• Invest in Training: Providing education for staff regularly to stay ahead of the curve with best practices and new technology developments in joinery design and manufacture.

By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, Chilfen Joinery ensures that our high-quality joinery products consistently meet the evolving needs of our clients.

Ultimately, quality assurance is a detailed and ongoing process. The selection of quality materials, accurate design, precise planning, skilled installations, and ongoing reviews and improvements allow us to deliver high-quality projects within client requirements and budgets that endure over the years. These values continue to guide Chilfen Joinery, offering outstanding joinery solutions to both commercial and residential clients.

Chilfen Joinery—Your Trusted Partner for Project Success.

 

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The UK government has announced that they intend to promote more extensive use of timber in the construction industry as part of its Timber in Construction Roadmap. This roadmap is designed to incentivise the domestic timber industry, support economic growth, generate rural jobs and achieve ambitious housebuilding commitments. These key actions were announced by Environment Minister Mary Creagh at the Timber in Construction (TiC) Summit held in London on the 27^th of February.

Key Actions of the Timber in Construction Roadmap

1. Promoting Sustainable Building Materials

The roadmap highlights the need for sustainable, low-carbon materials in construction. The initiative seeks to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry by taking into account carbon emissions during the design, construction, and operational phases of buildings.

2. Delivering 1.5 Million Homes using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)

The government plans to use MMC – potentially timber construction – to meet its pledge to deliver 1.5 million homes in the next parliamentary term. It will drive productivity in the housebuilding sector and help deliver quality, energy-efficient new homes.

3. Creating a Circular Economy

The roadmap advocates timber as the solution for a clean growth future by encouraging the construction sector to use the most sustainable, low-carbon materials and techniques. This is part of a wider push for a circular economy within the industry.

4. Accelerating Economic Growth and Job Creation

The initiative seeks to increase the use of timber in buildings to help facilitate economic growth and the creation of diverse green jobs in the forestry and timber sectors. This should promote more investment in domestic timber and timber-processing supply chains.

The Implications for Construction Fit-Out Decision Makers

For those responsible for procurement, project management and budgeting in commercial and residential construction the roadmap offers opportunities and challenges that will help shape their future projects.

• Joinery Solutions That are Efficient and Environmentally Friendly

With a growing emphasis on sustainable construction, the roadmap introduces a requirement for decision-makers to consider timber-based bespoke joinery solutions that can help achieve not just certification but compliance with environmental targets. Choosing a joinery supplier with a depth of experience in joinery design and manufacture means that projects can evolve to meet changing sustainability targets, without impacting quality or budget.

• Reducing Project Risk and Improving Quality

The construction industry grapples with many common pain points – project delays, and cost overruns. When project and site managers collaborate with an experienced joinery supplier, they can guarantee precision in the management of the whole joinery project, preventing rework on-site, and reducing installation issues. High-quality, pre-manufactured joinery components streamline fit-out processes, ensuring seamless integration into modern construction methods.

• Compliance and Regulatory Considerations

As targets for sustainability grow increasingly ambitious, buyers and estimators alike must ensure that materials meet the requisite standards. With a heightened focus on timber in construction, adherence to environmental policies will now play a vital role in the acceptance of tenders. But here’s the high note: compliance with the requirements is matched with a recommendation of increasing the quality of joinery products by using sustainably harvested timber, which will retain the value of the project in the long term.

• Doing it the Right Way — Efficient Planning and Installation for Large-Scale Projects

Efficient scheduling is key, especially in the construction of high-end residential, educational and office developments. The wide range of fit-for-purpose bespoke joinery options for commercial and residential projects can save substantially on installation time, reducing labour costs and keeping projects on schedule. Working with joinery specialists who offer pre-production samples detailed design, and construction drawings allows decision-makers to make informed choices before the materials arrive on site, minimising last-minute changes and issues.

The Future of Timber in Construction

With the UK construction industry transitioning toward greater timber use, decision-makers in both commercial and residential projects need to rethink how they source and manage projects. Choosing partners who have a good understanding of the changing landscape of the construction industry will be central to delivering successful, future-proof projects.

The Timber in Construction Roadmap not only represents a policy shift encouraging the use of timber in construction projects but also challenges construction professionals to innovate by integrating timber and high-quality joinery in the project design phase. If project teams can proactively address these trends, they will be on track to deliver cost-effective, sustainable, and regulatory-compliant projects that meet the expectations of both clients and industry standards.

Chilfen Joinery—Your Trusted Partner for Project Success.

 

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The materials that you choose when designing spaces can have an immense impact on how people feel and how they behave. Wood, beautiful and warm, stands out not only the aesthetic experience but the emotional and psychological one for people interacting with the space. Whether you’re designing a workspace, a retail environment, or a high-end residential space, using wood in your design can significantly influence mood and productivity across various environments, from offices to homes and commercial spaces.

Enhancing Focus and Well-being in Office Spaces

It’s more crucial than ever to create a workspace conducive to focus and well-being in our fast-paced, often stressful office environments. Enter wood. Research shows that the inclusion of natural wood into office spaces has been proven to decrease stress levels, improve the air quality of the environment, and even boost cognitive ability. A workspace crafted with custom joinery solutions — shelving, cupboards and feature walls — is not only aesthetically pleasing but can bring the space together. Incorporating these natural elements helps to make the environment calming, welcoming, and conducive to productivity.

Being in the presence of wood and touching it — running your hand across a smooth desk surface or the irregular contours of a natural wood — brings clarity and further lowers stress levels. In fact, many companies are investing more in office joinery that incorporates wood to create a healthier, more focused working atmosphere.

Delivering Memorable Experiences in Hospitality and Retail

The impact of adding wood into your design is not just for the office space — it influences customer experiences in hospitality and retail spaces, as well. In these spaces, every design element is critical to creating a lasting impression. Wood, due to its warmth and timeless beauty, helps create a perception of comfort and luxury, essential components of customer satisfaction.

Whether it is a wooden bar counter, bespoke display units, or custom shelving, these elements can help boost the aesthetics of a space and therefore impact the mood and behaviour of the customers. Wooden areas give a feeling of authenticity and craftsmanship, creating a connection that can be felt by the consumer. In hospitality, this translates into a more memorable stay and in retail, longer visits and a deeper sense of loyalty with customers.

Wood’s Role in Residential Projects

The wood used in residential joinery says a lot. In high-end residential projects, the choice of wood species, grains and finishes isn’t just about aesthetics — is a deeply personal choice that reflects the homeowner’s taste and lifestyle. Certain woods elicit different emotions — dark woods, such as walnut, confer sophistication and elegance, while lighter woods, such as oak, impart a feeling of openness and warmth, making them ideal for living areas and kitchens where brightness and activity are desired.

Even the grain and finish of the wood is very important in creating the appropriate atmosphere. In addition to tinting, smooth, glossy finishes can add polish and refinement whereas matte or natural finishes can highlight the organic beauty of the wood.

Wood aesthetics aren’t only attractive, but they also feel natural and calming, which is why they are typically used in spaces meant to pamper, such as living rooms, bedrooms and libraries. Picking the right wood can make a room feel luxurious yet welcoming.

Why Wood Is Important Beyond the Aesthetic: Sustainability + Health

Aside from its aesthetic and utilitarian qualities, wood brings many sustainability and health advantages. Timber is a renewable resource, and, if responsibly sourced, its environmental footprint is smaller than most other building materials.

If you are in the construction business and you are considering more sustainable solutions, wood offers the best option for sustainable construction projects. Lastly, wood is a healthier choice for interiors because it doesn’t release harmful chemicals as some synthetic materials do.

From increasing productivity in an office, creating hospitality and customer experiences, back to creating still and high-end living areas, the psychology of wood is compelling. The right joinery decisions can affect how we feel, how we work, and how we relate to the world around us.

The strategic use of wood in joinery design and manufacture extends beyond mere aesthetics; it profoundly impacts the psychological and physiological well-being of individuals interacting with these spaces. Whether aiming to boost productivity in an office, create an inviting atmosphere in a commercial setting, or craft a serene environment in a residence, the choices made in wood selection and joinery design are pivotal. Embracing the natural beauty and benefits of wood not only enhances the functionality and appeal of a space but also fosters a deeper connection between individuals and their environments.

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How we teach and learn is changing more than ever, and so should our classrooms and campuses. Today’s classrooms are very different from the stereotypical image of rows of desks, chairs and whiteboards; they are about building spaces that foster learning, engagement and overall student well-being. Bespoke joinery solutions can transform these educational spaces into multi-purpose, vibrant areas that enhance the way we teach in the modern age. Let’s explore how custom joinery is setting the stage for the future of education.

High-Quality Joinery Products that are Built to Last

School furniture can take a beating. From busy classrooms to bustling libraries, everything has to be tough enough to withstand regular use but also look good. So, high-quality joinery products are essential. Think about:

• Bookshelves for libraries that not only house books but form cosy reading nooks.
• Heavy-duty lab benches, ideal for hands-on STEM activities.
• Acoustic sound panels that help classrooms and auditoriums stay calm and focused.

Made with durable materials and precision craftsmanship, these items withstand the test of time, saving schools money over the long run and ensuring that spaces remain functional and appealing.

Sustainable Construction — How to Go Green

Sustainability is more critical than ever, and schools are no exception. Here’s how joinery can contribute to greener construction:

• Using ethically sourced FSC timber compliant with the UK Timber Regulations.
• By using energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
• Creating durable furniture to combat waste and the need for replacements.

These practices not only help minimise a project’s environmental footprint.

Creating Inspiring Spaces

Schools are where you learn but they’re also where you get inspired. Whether it’s a welcoming reception area, a vibrant common room, or a state-of-the-art lecture hall, thoughtful joinery can make a big difference. Imagine:

• Bright, airy reception areas with bespoke desks that offer a wow factor.
• Adaptable lecture halls with comfy, tiered seating and built-in tech areas.
• Playful, engaging sections where younger students can learn while having fun.

When carefully designed and thoughtfully finished, these spaces can inspire students and staff and help create a school everyone is proud to be in.

Making It All Happen with Expert Joinery Project Management

Educational projects have unique challenges and most often time constraints. This is where expert joinery project management comes into play. With all of these joinery tasks taken care of by experienced professionals schools can expect:

• Clear communication every step of the way.
• Seamless coordination between teams to avoid delays.
• Quick, creative solutions to any unexpected issues.

This leads to less stress for everyone involved and keeps the project on schedule, no matter how complex.

The Importance of Bespoke Joinery in Education:

At the heart of all this is the idea that educational spaces should be more than just functional—they should be inspiring. The significance of well-designed joinery inspires active engagement in learning. Whether it is tailored classroom furniture, ergonomic workstations or a touch of elegance in common areas, it can inspire creativity.

At Chilfen Joinery, we love working in educational spaces to create inspiring spaces. We bring a unique approach to every project we take on, merging innovative design with expert craftsmanship, based on our commitment to sustainability. Want to update your space? Come and visit us at Chilfen Joinery to discover how we can assist you.

Chilfen Joinery—Your Trusted Partner for Project Success.

 

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