Carving Out Connections: Gregory Crane’s Special Relations With Haddonstone

As a leading member of the UK Cast Stone Association, family owned Haddonstone has a reputation for its excellent cast stonework, and works with installers and developers on prestigious projects around the country. Here we meet one such installer, Gregory Cane, managing director of G C Stonework.

G C Stonework offers a complete tailored service to its clients, providing step by step support throughout every project. With over 30 years of experience at its disposal, the company offers a full range of stonework services, from the repair and restoration of existing stonework to the installation of porticos, balustrading, door surrounds, and hard landscaping, and lots more. As an approved Haddonstone installer, Greg has used Haddonstone’s products on many prestigious projects.  

Over the years, our team has gained valuable working techniques which have enabled us to offer a total package, whether that is for a complete house build, a bespoke stone installation, a water feature or for our steam cleaning service. Steam cleaning has become popular over the last five years, with the end results looking great. We travel all over the country and abroad to undertake all of these works. We always say to our clients, if a drawing is provided, we will work with the client and a Haddonstone team member to achieve your dream project.

GC Stonework has worked with Haddonstone for years. What is so special about your partnership?

I think one of the main factors is trust; we have been installing Haddonstone products for around 19 years now. The feedback that Haddonstone receives from clients is wonderful.  We take care and pride on the service we provide to achieve that quality on every project.

What changes have you seen and experienced within the stone industry over the years?

We have been installing cast stone products for a long time now and we are finding that people are, today, willing to spend that little extra on quality cast stone. Cast stone is a superb alternative to natural stone for a number of reasons.

For example, cast stone has a relatively quick turnaround in manufacturing; it is also around 4-5 times cheaper than natural stone. Over the last 2-3 years, we have started to install more and more wet cast products; this is down to the material used.  It is non-porous; the colour is maintained throughout the years, and it is easy to clean, making it a great all year-round choice of material.

What are the main considerations a client should consider when choosing cast stonework for their property or landscape?

There are many factors to consider before choosing the right Haddonstone product. Firstly, Haddonstone offers standard products throughout the brochure, as well as a bespoke service which can be tailored to special requirements. The portfolio includes a range of colours for architectural stonework as well as garden ornaments and statues.

Haddonstone provides three materials, dry cast, wet cast and TecLite and provides sample packs for each colour and material. A major factor for me is the overall appearance of the stone.  How will stone weather in years to come?  Do you want it clean and fresh or the weathered look?  Different properties suit their own individual requirements.  Whether it’s a modern property or a stately home.

If you could choose a favourite project that G C Stonework has been involved in, which would it be?

There are so many to choose from, but for me it would have to be the installation of the temple and bespoke plinth work we installed for the National Military Dog Memorial in Holywell, North Wales. We were appointed very early on with this project, by the National Military Dog Memorial charity. We also attended the opening ceremony with the Royal Navy, and RAF, along with fundraisers and committee members all attending this special occasion. 

Why do you enjoy working with Haddonstone?

One of the many reasons is the quality of the material.  The sharp crisp details of the stone, make installation easier; the products provide a seamless look once pointed whether that be a portico, water feature or bespoke project. The team provides a delivery date, which is never compromised.  This makes our planning a lot easier, knowing the materials will be on site for us to commence work. A team member is always there to help. 

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of embarking on a building project?

Take your time and really give it some thought. There is a lot to consider, with many factors which include design, colour and materials.

Haddonstone provide CAD drawings and expert advice to assist you through the whole process, to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.  For further information, call 01604 770711 or visit www.haddonstone.com

Haddonstone Adds The Crowning Glory To The Historic Grade II* Former Granada Cinema

Architectural cast stone specialist Haddonstone, has restored key stonework features on the newly restored former Granada Cinema Building, recently reopened in May 2025 and operating as Soho Theatre Walthamstow. Since the opening of the original Victoria Music Hall in 1887, the site has been home to a variety of entertainment genres.

Soho Theatre Walthamstow - photography courtesy of David Levene

In 1930, following a complete development, the Music Hall Granada Chain Cinema Variety opened as a cinema and performance venue which, during the 1950s and 1960s, hosted stars of the moment including Buddy Holly, The Beatles, The Who and The Rolling Stones. The site was granted Grade II*-listed status by English Heritage in 1987 and added to the Theatres-at-Risk Register 2015.

Waltham Forest Council purchased the building in 2019, a legacy commitment as the Mayor of London's first Borough of Culture. The council led an originally budgeted £30m for the restoration of this historic venue in Walthamstow. It has transformed the building into a landmark cultural multi-use venue with four units, one of which is operated by Soho Theatre Walthamstow,, a vibrant 960-seat live performance space. 

Returning the building to its former glory while introducing modern cultural features; it offers a variety of live performances, including comedy, theatre and music, along with a host of community-focused events.

The venue also features three bars, a restaurant, and studio spaces, enriching the local community's cultural landscape. The collaboration, led by Waltham Forest Council, with Historic England, conservation specialists, experts and Soho Theatre ensures that the space serves as a hub for both local residents and visitors.

With a Historic England's Building at Risk Repairs Grant in place, Haddonstone's expertise was called upon to preserve and restore key architectural features; the experts supplied bespoke string courses, cornices, and coping to the Dutch gable of the building. A new motif was created to reflect the original scroll detail of the gable and all the stonework was crafted from wet-cast limestone in Portland colour, ensuring a  seamless blend of new and historic materials.

The need to preserve historical accuracy while adapting the building for today, required careful consideration and collaboration. The use of cast stone was integral in overcoming these challenges, allowing Haddonstone to replicate the ornate detailing of the original architecture and blend it with new structural elements.

The new scroll motif after casting: and once installed on the Dutch gable of the building

The project's success was a testament to the skillful integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern restoration techniques, ensuring that this beloved heritage landmark will continue to serve the community for many years to come.

Cllr Rosalind Doré, Cabinet member for Libraries, Culture and Sports and Leisure said: "We are delighted to announce the revival of our iconic venue, which embodies our vision from Waltham Forest as a vibrant ‘cultural neighbourhood'. This investment not only enriches our community but also strengthens our commitment to creating an economy that benefits everyone."

"As part of the London Borough of Culture 2019 legacy, we are dedicated to placing culture at the heart of our borough, enhancing the local evening and night-time economy while supporting our businesses and residents." For further information, call 01604 770711 or visit www.haddonstone.com

Haddonstone's USA Customers Love Traditional English Architecture

Here Chris Doyle, Vice President of Haddonstone's Commercial Operations in the USA, talks about the American operation in Pueblo, Colorado, and gives us an insight into the American customer base.

Can you give us a short biography on you?

I hail from Doncaster in South Yorkshire and have worked for Haddonstone Group for 15 years. I joined whilst still at university (it is the only ‘proper' job I have had!).  In terms of education, I have a Bachelor's degree in business management from the University of Hull along with Master's degree in Senior Leadership from Sheffield Hallam University (Haddonstone also sponsored and supported me to carry out my Master's).  

I joined the Haddonstone group in 2010 working for Pennine Stone as a graduate trainee and worked my way up to Commercial Manager after learning all aspects of the business processes.  I was then asked to move to the US operation in November 2021 as Commercial Manager and now hold the title of Vice President of Commercial Operations. Regarding family, I have an amazing wife and seven-year-old son who are enjoying a new life in the USA; we have been here nearly 3 years now! In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf and exploring the Colorado mountains with my family.

What is your title and role at Haddonstone? Can you describe the role and what it entails?

As VP of Commercial Operations, I oversee all aspects of the company's commercial operations including sales processes, contract management, and pricing strategies.  I am tasked with ensuring the efficient performance of all sales activities and operational performance.

Where do you find inspiration?

Great question! I get a lot of inspiration from people.  Interacting with people from all walks of life, especially those from diverse backgrounds who have admiring stories to share, gives me new ideas and insights.  I also get a lot of inspiration from personal experiences (both positive and challenging). 

Projects - most proud of and why?

Two projects spring to mind.  One was a project called Yuki Hospital in Japan; this was the first large project I was involved in when I moved to the US.  This is now a huge private Nursing Home in Ibaraki (about 70 miles North of Tokyo).  Our client was based in Seattle and I had multiple visits there to fully understand the requirements.  This was also a UK collaboration with the products being manufactured in Northamptonshire.

(https://www.haddonstone.com/en-us/case-studies/yuki-hospital-ibaraki-japan/)

Yuki Hospital, Japan

The second project was a local one in Evergreen Colorado (which is about two hours north of our office and manufacturing plant in Pueblo).  Our client was an inspirational man called Charles Bluth who is a very successful self-made property developer.  Charles took his vision and passion for classical architecture and wanted to produce a property designed with the look of the palace of Versailles. We manufactured the façade stonework for this property on its own private mountain 30 miles from Colorado's capital of Denver.

(https://www.haddonstone.com/en-us/case-studies/private-residence-evergreen-colorado/).

Chateau V in Evergeen, Colorado

What size is the facility you look after and how many people work there?  What is the capacity product-wise? For example, "how many units per week" is a good statistic.

We have a three-acre site in Pueblo Colorado, and we employ 25 people.  We manufacture, on average, 35,000lbs of product a week and, depending on the size of products, this would be roughly 200-300 products. 

How many employees are you responsible for?

I am responsible for four employees in the front office, and I also help the factory of 21 individuals on some operational practices.

Haddonstone is known for continual investment in the factory - what is the next addition/development in US?

Our next addition to the factory will hopefully be the custom-made manufacturing arms that have been installed in the UK for a couple of years now.  These were designed by our in-house steel fabricator, Andy Holt, and these produce a more compact product; they also reduce the hand arm vibration that our casters experience with a routine hammer.

Haddonstone's site in Pueblo, Colorado

Where in the world do your products go - just USA?

We ship to the US, Canada, Korea and the Caribbean Islands.

What are favourite products/design trends the USA loves?

I think the USA market really appreciates our classical and more traditional architectural and landscape products.  They give them a feel of having an English-inspired design in their space.  Americans are also proud to receive products that are made in their own country so our balance of English designs that are manufactured in America really goes well with our clientele.

Does the US operation differ from the UK one? If so, what are the differences?

Overall, the manufacturing operations are very similar. However, one big difference is the logistical challenges of moving product around such a large country.  Commercially, it makes no sense to have our own fleet of vehicles, like we have in the UK; we rely on trusting and developing relationships with America's largest freight carriers to get our products to customer safely.

Are US customers different to UK customers? If so, how?

Overall, I think customers have some similarities. However, I think US customers are just so devoted to a product or service once they have received or experienced something they like! They love us and love telling everyone. 

Who are your customers?

We have a wide range of customers such as private homeowners, architects, landscape designers, general contractors and governing bodies.  We have a very loyal customer base; particularly, architects and landscape architects who continue to specify our products for appropriate projects.

What is the best thing about working for Haddonstone?

The best thing about working for Haddonstone must be the family history behind the business.  Although we are a relatively small business, our employee retention in both countries speaks for itself and I truly believe this is down to everyone having value and respect for one another which I think has been instilled right from the start of the founding of the business over 50 years ago.

 For further information, call 01604 770711 or visit www.haddonstone.com