Ross Stewart, UK senior sales manager for Neolith UK, shares his thoughts on what will shape the surfaces industry in the year ahead, including the rise of circular practices, inclusive design, and a heightened focus on eco-friendly, durable materials.
General
Going into 2025, consumer awareness around sustainability and ethical production will continue to grow, with homeowners prioritising brands that demonstrate transparency in manufacturing. Sustainability is no longer a trend but a necessity, driving demand for materials that align with circular and responsible practices. Neolith strongly believes in the importance of this offering and is at the forefront of this movement, introducing its 98R range, with models containing up to 98% recycled materials, reducing raw material consumption and promoting waste reuse. In addition, Neolith’s achievement of the Cradle to Cradle Certified Bronze certification for a wide range of products – the only brand in its category to do so – sets a new standard for safe and sustainable design in 2025 and beyond.
Kitchens
The kitchen in 2025 will continue to be the heart of the home, with an emphasis on sustainability, functionality, and timeless design. Homeowners are increasingly seeking materials that can endure daily use, resist heat and stains, and contribute to a healthier indoor environment. Compared to 2024, this year’s trends will reflect a heightened awareness of sustainable living, with a greater emphasis on eco-friendly materials that don’t compromise on style or durability.
One challenge for the industry is meeting this demand with materials that are both beautiful and robust, but it also presents an opportunity to lead with innovation. Neolith’s sintered stone surfaces, known for their strength, versatility, and environmental sustainability, are perfectly suited to meet these expectations, offering a range of colours and finishes that help transform kitchens into high-performance, design-driven spaces. Further, they are the only work surface brand to have a Cradle to Cradle certification, demonstrating a clear awareness of where the market needs to be heading in 2025.
The other emergence is a need for inclusive design, as more generations within a family are currently living under the same roof, thus increasing the requirements a kitchen needs to meet. The kitchen and bathroom markets have seen significant developments in recent years, with sintered stone manufacturers increasingly integrating accessibility features into their product designs. For example, sintered stone floors and bathroom countertops can be customised to accommodate varying heights for the likes of wheelchair users, ensuring accessibility and comfort in kitchen spaces, or sintered stone can be installed on walls and floors to create a wet room area which minimises trip and slip hazards.
The rise of outdoor living spaces has also brought a surge in demand for outdoor kitchens, which are becoming a sought-after feature for homeowners who want to maximise their use of external areas. These spaces require materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions while maintaining aesthetic appeal and durability. Neolith’s sintered stone, with its exceptional resistance to UV rays, extreme temperatures, and moisture, is ideal for this purpose. Its ability to seamlessly flow between interior and exterior spaces makes it the perfect choice for those who desire a unified, cohesive design that bridges the indoors and outdoors.
Bathrooms
In the bathroom sector, 2025 will see a surge in demand for materials that convey luxury and wellness while also meeting stringent sustainability standards. Consumers are looking for spaces that feel like personal retreats, driving interest in materials with natural textures, timeless beauty, and the ability to withstand moisture and frequent cleaning.
At the luxury end of the market, 'Stone drenching' is becoming more prevalent. Consumers are opting to cover not only their shower enclosures, but their floors and ceilings and built in steam room/sauna seats with the same stone effect throughout. The resulting look is sleek and luxurious, whilst also providing a sense of calm. There is a desire for relaxation in today’s fast paced world, and this paired with the wellness movement which has gained significant traction in recent years.
Bathroom designs will increasingly require surfaces that minimise maintenance without compromising on style. Neolith’s sintered stone, with its water-resistant and easy-to-clean qualities, meets these demands, offering designers and homeowners a sustainable, high-performance choice that elevates the bathroom experience. The challenge lies in delivering solutions that feel luxurious yet practical, positioning Neolith as a leader in sustainable, low-maintenance bathroom surfaces.
Retail
In 2025, retail spaces will continue to embrace materials that enhance both aesthetics and durability as brands aim to create immersive environments that engage and retain customers. Compared to the previous year, the demand for premium, long-lasting materials is expected to grow, with retailers placing increased emphasis on sustainability and unique design to differentiate their spaces. Neolith’s newly formed Promoter Team, launched in June 2023, has played a key role in fostering these retail relationships within the UK, particularly in the kitchen and bathroom design sectors.
