Katie has been part of the Barker and Stonehouse family for just shy of two years and says one of the things she loves most about working here is being part of a family-run business where no one is just a number. From the store floor to other areas of the business, everyone is known by name and valued for the part they play.

As a Manager, no two days are the same. Katie enjoys having the autonomy to make commercial decisions that influence her store, seeing ideas she’s shared with the wider business come to life across our retail estate, and, of course, working alongside a fantastic management team.

When it comes to her favourite area of the store, it’s a difficult choice! Our new Venjakob display has just launched and is currently a firm favourite. Although, with a new Duresta studio, an updated Pure Home display and a refreshed Somnus studio all coming in September, that favourite spot could soon change!

One of Nicola’s favourite things about working here is the customers she gets to meet in store. She loves getting to know people and helping them make decisions on everything from colour to style. As buying furniture is rarely an impulse decision, Nicola enjoys seeing customers return to store over multiple visits, building a relationship with them and helping bring their vision to life.

When it comes to design trends, Nicola is loving warm neutrals paired with rich, earthy colours at the moment - think linen and oatmeal tones mixed with rust, chocolate brown and olive greens.

One of Nicola’s favourite things about the area surrounding the store is the Metrocentre, with its fantastic mix of shops and restaurants all in one place.

And her current favourite display in store? The Orla Kiely range! With its bright, playful colours, it brings a welcome pop of personality to the shop floor and really stands out amongst the more neutral tones of our other ranges.

In store, Paul's favourite area to work in is Pure Home. He enjoys working with natural wood and helping customers choose from a range of finishes and sizes.

When it comes to design trends, Paul is drawn to Whitemeadow, loving its modern, contemporary feel and vibrant colour ways. It's a brand that brings a sense of personality and energy into any space.

One of his favourite things about the area surrounding the store is Saltwell Park. There's something wonderfully peaceful and tranquil about it, the perfect spot to escape.