Stonehouse Brewery Website Design
As the brewing industry grappled with the sweeping challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, it became clear that adaptability and innovation were essential for survival. For Stonehouse Brewery, a well-loved independent brewery with a loyal local following, the shift in consumer behaviour presented both a challenge and an opportunity. With taprooms closed and footfall drastically reduced, the team recognised that the path forward lay in embracing digital commerce—allowing customers to enjoy their favourite beers from the comfort and safety of home.
However, their existing website was no longer fit for purpose. Outdated in both design and functionality, it lacked the tools and flexibility required to support a modern e-commerce experience. What should have been a simple transition to online sales became a frustrating and inefficient process, highlighting the urgent need for a digital overhaul.
Understanding the importance of not just surviving but thriving in a changing landscape, Stonehouse Brewery turned to LemonTop Creative with a clear but ambitious brief: to design and build a fully responsive, visually engaging, and user-friendly e-commerce website that would elevate their brand and make buying beer online as smooth and enjoyable as drinking it.
The Solution
Once we received the full list of requirements from Stonehouse Brewery, it became clear that this project would go far beyond a simple e-commerce build. But challenges like this are exactly where LemonTop thrives. We don’t just design websites—we solve problems, and we’re passionate about delivering smart, creative solutions that exceed expectations.
From the outset, our team approached the project with clarity, focus, and the enthusiastic drive to create something not only functional but also visually striking and future-proof. Stonehouse needed more than just an online shop—they needed a fully integrated digital platform that reflected every aspect of their brand, from their renowned beers to their vibrant bar and kitchen.
At the heart of the project was the need for a robust, intuitive Content Management System (CMS). Stonehouse required the flexibility to update stock levels, publish new events, and upload fresh content with ease. So, our top priority was building a CMS that was not only powerful and scalable but also easy to use, even for those without technical expertise. Whether adjusting seasonal opening times, tweaking the food and drink menu, or adding a new product to the shop, the system needed to support seamless, real-time updates.
Beyond functionality, the design itself had to capture the personality and energy of the Stonehouse brand. They’re not just a brewery—they’re a destination, offering a full experience through their bar, kitchen, and events. We put this at the forefront of the design with a bold, image-led approach. Large, vibrant visuals were used throughout the site—especially on the homepage—to showcase the inviting atmosphere of their venue and the quality of their food and drink offering. These visuals not only bring the site to life but also invite users to explore, engage, and ultimately, visit.
The end result is a site that balances form and function: fast, flexible, and beautiful. It empowers Stonehouse to manage their content with confidence, sell their products online with ease, and present their full offering—from brewery to bar—in a way that feels authentic, engaging, and built to grow alongside their business.
Considerations
At the core of this project was a simple but vital objective: to create a website that worked seamlessly for both the customer and the Stonehouse team. From the very beginning, ease of use was our prime consideration—not just in terms of navigating the online shop, but also in how efficiently the site could be managed and maintained behind the scenes.
Stonehouse Brewery is a dynamic, fast-paced business, always evolving with new products, events, and offerings. They needed a digital platform that could keep up. Whether it was updating stock in the online shop, adjusting seasonal menus, promoting live events, or refreshing site imagery, the process had to be fast, intuitive, and entirely within their control.
With this in mind, we built a powerful yet user-friendly Content Management System tailored specifically to their needs. It empowers the Stonehouse team to make changes instantly—adding new beers to the shop, updating product details, publishing events, swapping out images, and keeping menus current—all without the need for technical support. This means the site can evolve in real time, always reflecting the latest developments at the brewery, bar, and kitchen.
The end result is a future-ready platform that gives Stonehouse complete control over their online presence. It ensures the website remains fresh, engaging, and aligned with the ever-changing nature of the business. More than just an e-commerce solution, it’s a digital extension of the Stonehouse experience—flexible, welcoming, and built to grow.
The Results
Srtonehouse now have a fully functional, responsively designed e-commerce site that has completely transfromed the online side of their flourishing business. Its user-friendly CMS system, allows all members of staff to access what they need and It can be constantly refreshed with upcoming events, new stock, and updated images. The online shop and delivery service has proved invaluable during these times of uncertainty and has become a firm favourite with existing and new customers. It has fast become an essential tool to use throughout the Covid 19 lockdown. As we slowly and tentatively emerge from the pandemic, it has given Stonehouse the injection of confidence and assurance they need to be certain that they can work through any obstacles that come their way in the future.