Durham Start-Up Wins Prestigious North East Business Award
- Andrea Stephenson
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
SPELK Studio has been named the Durham, Sunderland and South Tyneside Area Winner in the Start-Up category at the North East Business Awards 2025. This recognition marks a major milestone for the design-led furniture company, which was established with support from the Durham City Incubator (DCI) programme.
Originally launched as a contemporary furniture brand, SPELK is now expanding its offering to include interior design services and bespoke fitted kitchens, with bookings being taken for projects starting in September 2025.
SPELK’s win highlights both the strength of new creative businesses in the region and the impact of Business Durham’s support through the DCI programme.
“Winning this award is a huge honour,” said Kelly Smith. “The DCI programme gave me the tools and confidence to establish SPELK Studio, and I’m thrilled that this hard work has been recognised. This award is not just for me, but also for the network of people and organisations who have supported this journey. Now, as we expand into interiors and kitchens, I’m excited to continue contributing to the region’s design heritage.”
The North East Business Awards, which is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, honours the region’s best businesses and the people behind them. SPELK now goes forward as one of three area winners competing for the title of North East Start-Up Business of the Year in September 2025.
SPELK Studio’s work is rooted in North East heritage and craftsmanship, with designs that marry modern aesthetics with timeless quality and function. While furniture remains at the heart of the brand, the expansion into kitchens and interiors reflects growing demand for thoughtful, design-led living spaces.
About SPELK Studio
SPELK Studio is a Durham-based design studio founded by Kelly Smith. Inspired by North East heritage and committed to contemporary British design, SPELK Studio creates furniture and interiors that combine quality, style and function.
Applications are now open for the next cohort for the Durham City Incubator (DCI) programme. Click here to find out more
.png)
