Stone Lab: Creating Longevity and Sustainability for Stone and Tile
Leif completing a bench restoration
In 2017, Leif (a descendant from Ngā Puhi) and Telessa Nahi launched Stone Lab, a whānau business specialising in the treatment, restoration, and protection of natural and engineered stone and tile. With over 28 years in the Bay of Plenty, they have seen its transformation and are passionate about contributing to its growth. Combining Telessa's business management background and Leif's extensive stone industry experience, they are committed to preserving the natural beauty of stone.
Navigating Market Demands
Before founding Stone Lab, Leif and Telessa operated Coastal Tiling for 18 years, focusing on stone and tile installation. The global financial crisis in 2008 forced them to downsize and rethink their service offering. After recognising the physical demands of stone installations on the tinana, Leif and Telessa began to make a shift in their services. Leif’s desire to understand the science behind effective stone treatments shaped the direction of Stone Lab.
“During the years of installation, I found that there was a lack of knowledge and guidance in the protection and sealing of Natural Stone and when issues arose that were directly linked to poor sealer treatments, I was left holding the responsibility of recommended sealers. I found that they weren’t performing as expected. Not willing to accept this standard in such a big industry, I decided to research to understand the true value of chemical treatments. I wanted to know why and delve deep into the science of stone,” Leif expressed.
With the financial support from whānau, Leif and Telessa were initially unsure about the demand for stone restoration, but they quickly realised there was a gap in the market that they could service. Ranging from anti-graffiti protection, hydro-repellent applications for moisture issues, and thermal loss protection for various surfaces.
“For us it was about diversification and looking to see what people need in the market and if they are struggling to find someone to do it,” Telessa explains.
Understanding market needs became essential and by being proactive rather than reactive, Stone Lab has successfully navigated fluctuations in the industry to remain financially viable and successful.
Kaitiakitanga in Action
As a Māori-owned business, Leif and Telessa embrace their role as kaitiaki. They understand that poor-quality treatments can lead to environmental degradation and costly replacements that harm our environment.
Telessa explains,“Our ethos revolves around sustainability. We don’t just rip something out; we repair or refurbish it.”
This approach not only saves clients a lot of money, but also helps them fall in love with their stone again while reducing their carbon footprint through restoration services instead of new stone installations.
“It takes time to change mindsets, but the trade-off for the environment is worthwhile,” Leif explains.
Stone Lab is noticing more and more clients' willingness to pay for higher quality stone restoration because of the lifetime value it provides.
Words of Wisdom: Stay Competitive
Business is never static and the surrounding environment is always changing due to the many factors that influence market demand. However, core to Stone Lab’s survival and success can also be attributed to providing as much value as possible to their customers while also upholding their company and personal values.
“Be passionate about your trade. Your customers will see that and it will set you apart from the competition. Stay positive and believe in the value of what you are doing,” Telessa explains.
In stone restoration, Stone Lab stands out not just for their high quality services but also for their commitment to sustainability. Their journey from installation to restoration is a testament to their passion, resilience, and vision for a more sustainable future!
