North Devon business expanding by building brand new factory in Barnstaple

A thriving North Devon business that preserves heritage crafts and exports them worldwide is expanding into a new purpose-built factory twice the size of its current Barnstaple premises.

Turnstyle Designs has begun construction on a new sustainable factory and headquarters nearby after 25 years at its current location on Roundswell Retail Park.

When the business began in 1992 it employed six people - today it employs more than 60 people from across the region, providing training and apprenticeships in skills from leatherwork to metal patination, to help preserve heritage craft skills within North Devon.

Above: A graphic impression of how the new Turnstyle Designs factory will look.

The company has built a global reputation, creating luxury hand-crafted hardware, fixtures and fittings for high-end residential, commercial and yacht projects worldwide.

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It was also the first hardware manufacturer in the world to achieve B Corp status, a certification that recognises a company is socially and environmentally aware and uses its business as a force for good. 

Ground has been broken to begin work on the new factory, which will be constructed by Devon Contractors – which built the current Turnstyle Designs premises – and Barnstaple-based Peregrine Mears are the project architects.

Sustainability is central to the design of the new factory. The building will be powered by solar panels and renewable energy, with high-performance insulation and thermally efficient construction will help reduce energy use.

Natural ventilation and opening roof vents will regulate temperature during warmer months, reducing reliance on mechanical cooling, while targeted workstation heating will provide efficient warmth in winter.

Employees have been consulted on the new plans and as a result there will be a strong emphasis on natural light, comfort and space for departments to expand.

Above: Inside, the new Turnstyle Designs factory will make use of natural light and heating/cooling methods to be energy efficient and for the comfort of employees.

Large windows and translucent panels will allow daylight to reach deep into production and office areas, reducing reliance on artificial lighting while creating a healthier working environment.

Oscar Roberts, managing director of Turnstyle Designs, said: “This new factory and headquarters represent a huge step forward for us.

“We’ve designed the building around how our people work, taking on board feedback around light and space. Sustainability has been central to every decision, aligning with our B Corp values and our commitment to responsible manufacturing here in Devon.” 

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Nigel Whelan, managing director of Devon Contractors, added: “Turnstyle Designs is a highly respected North Devon business and we’re proud to be delivering, once again, their new headquarters here in Barnstaple.”

Turnstyle Designs was founded in North Devon by Steve Roberts in 1992 to introduce progressive design, processes and new materials, while preserving time-honoured, British craftsmanship.

The new building is expected to be completed in November.