About the Studio
Foundations & Inspiration
Corley Stained Glass was founded by John Corley, whose introduction to stained glass began while studying at Canterbury College of Art, in the shadow of Canterbury Cathedral. The power of medieval glass, its colour, scale and narrative, sparked a lifelong dedication to the art form and laid the foundations of the studio’s approach.
John’s artistic training at Northampton School of Art and Canterbury College of Art was shaped by influences ranging from early European masters such as Giotto and Cimabue to Rembrandt, Cézanne and the great twentieth-century artists including Picasso, Matisse and Chagall. This breadth of study continues to inform the studio’s understanding of colour, composition and light.
John at Canterbury Cathedral Studio
Training & Early Professional Work
John’s early professional experience included work at the Cathedral Studios under Frederick Cole FMGP, where he worked on the windows at Canterbury Cathedral followed by specialist training with the York Glaziers Trust, assisting with conservation projects at York Minster, including work on the Rose Window.
This grounding in both design and conservation established the dual focus that remains central to the studio today: new commissions alongside the careful conservation of historic stained glass.
Queen Elizabeth II and John Corley at the opening of the Maughan Library, Kings College London.
Establishing the Studio
After several years of professional practice, John established his own studio in Kent, undertaking stained glass commissions and conservation projects. As demand grew, the workshop expanded into its present premises, developing into a skilled team of craftspeople carrying out all aspects of studio and site work.
Alongside our commissioned and conservation work, the front of the studio houses our Studio Shop, where visitors can browse a curated selection of mouthblown glass by British makers, together with small stained and fused glass panels and handmade glass jewellery crafted in our studio.
Today, Corley Stained Glass is a family-led practice run by John and his wife Heather, supported by an experienced team trained within the studio’s traditions. While the studio continues to evolve, its ethos remains constant - careful craftsmanship, respect for historic fabric and a commitment to excellence in both conservation and contemporary design.
Heather Corley at the front of the studio in Deal, Kent
Accreditation & Professional Recognition
In 2000, John Corley was awarded Accreditation of Conservator–Restorer (PACR) by the Institute of Conservation (ICON), and the studio is registered with the Conservation Register.
In 2020, he became an Associate of the British Society of Master Glass Painters and was admitted to the Freedom of The Worshipful Company of Glaziers and Painters of Glass - recognition of more than four decades of contribution to stained glass design, conservation and restoration.
What We Offer
Whether creating a bespoke stained glass commission, conserving a historic window or restoring a cherished piece, we combine traditional craftsmanship with thoughtful design to produce work that is both beautiful and enduring.
We work with homeowners, churches, architects, heritage organisations and public bodies across the UK, bringing the same care and attention to every project, regardless of its scale.
Thinking about a stained glass project?
Whether you're commissioning a new piece or looking to conserve an historic window, explore our specialist services to learn more about how we can help…
