The makers of Saint John

Led by Chris Thorpe, Saint John brings together a handpicked collective of master makers, designers and technical specialists working at the highest level of their craft.

Combining expertise across timber, metal, stone, glass and specialist finishes, the team brings together a rare breadth of skill and material understanding — realised through precision engineering, technical excellence and an uncompromising attention to detail.

From the workshop to the drawing board, every commission is approached with clarity, care and deep respect for material and form.

THE STORY SO FAR

The making of Saint John


Founded in the Hampshire village from which the studio and workshop takes its name, Saint John began as a small workshop with an uncompromising approach to quality and detail.

What began as a modest workshop has evolved into a multidisciplinary practice creating bespoke interiors, kitchens and one-of-a-kind commissions across the UK and internationally.

As the scale and ambition of the work has grown, the principles behind it have remained constant; thoughtful design, exceptional materials and meticulous execution.

Today, Saint John continues to shape interiors defined by enduring beauty.

2018

Chris Thorpe establishes Saint John with a vision rooted in craftsmanship, technical precision and considered design.

2019

The Saint John brand is born,inspired by the Hampshire village where the business first began, becoming a reflection of the company’s heritage, craftsmanship and enduring values.

2022

As the business continues to grow, Saint John moves into a larger workshop in Hampshire, creating space for an expanding team of makers, designers and technical specialists.

2022

Nick Kirby joins as Production Manager. A highly respected craftsperson with an exceptional eye for detail, Nick brings decades of workshop expertise to Saint John, alongside a passion for sharing knowledge and developing the next generation of makers.

2025

Saint John expands internationally, delivering its first bespoke interior project in the Caribbean.

2026

Saint John undertakes its first commission valued at over £1 million, delivering a highly detailed bespoke interior project for a private client in London’s Holland Park.

latest news

WOW!house 2026 in collaboration with Martin Kemp Design

In collaboration with Martin Kemp Design, Saint John contributes to WOW!house 2026, bringing together exceptional craftsmanship, material detail and contemporary interior design on one of the industry’s leading platforms.

Responsible Making

At Saint John, sustainability is considered throughout every stage of the making process. From reducing waste and improving energy efficiency within the workshop to sourcing materials responsibly, we are continually reviewing and refining the way we work. We prioritise working with trusted local suppliers, estates and well-managed woodlands that share our commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Where materials are sourced further afield, we carefully select timber from certified FSC suppliers to ensure responsible and sustainable sourcing standards are maintained.

Calvin Nelson joins the team

Saint John welcomes Calvin Nelson to the team as Estimator, bringing extensive experience across high-end residential interiors and bespoke projects.

Caribbean Commision

Saint John completes its first overseas project in the Caribbean, bringing its approach to craftsmanship, detail and bespoke interiors to an international setting.

our core team
Chris Thorpe

Chris Thorpe

General Manager

Nick Kirby

Production Manager

John Haskins

Project Manager

Calvin Nelson

Estimator

Adam Game

Joinery CAD Designer

Tom Ryan

Joinery CAD Designer

Claire Flanigan

Project Coordinator

Adam Knowles

Senior Cabinetmaker

Adam Mitchell

Cabinetmaker

Ash Allen

Cabinetmaker

Dean Smith

Cabinetmaker

Melanie Plotkin

Marketing Manager