Keystone Solid Surfaces: From Shared Roots to Fabrication Expertise

Childhood friends turned co-owners, Cyle Barnwell and Spencer Allen brought new energy to Keystone Solid Surfaces when they acquired it in 2017. From in-house innovations to a broadened mix of residential and commercial work, the Wichita-based fabricator and installer has grown its Midwestern footprint while keeping quality at the core.

From Friendship to Fabrication

Cyle and Spencer grew up together in Kansas, forming a friendship that began when they were seven. When the opportunity to acquire Keystone Solid Surfaces came to Cyle, he turned to Spencer—the perfect counterbalance to his finance background. “I’m the accounting guy that can’t hang a picture. Spencer’s the guy who builds cabinets and bunk beds for his kids. I knew I needed someone like that,” he says.

A Culture of Collaboration

Today, the two lead a nearly 70-person team, fabricating every project at Keystone’s Wichita facility, which also includes a showroom open to consumers and trade professionals alike. Their success stems from a shared commitment to craftsmanship, trust, and pride in the work they do. Cyle and Spencer credit much of the company’s momentum to their employees—many of whom have been with the company for years and advanced through multiple departments. “We’ve got really great people who make it happen every day,” Cyle says.

A Growing Presence

From the Wichita facility, Keystone now serves clients throughout Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. What was once primarily residential has evolved into a near 50/50 split, reflecting steady growth and trust on larger, more complex commercial projects alongside residences. The team recently opened a second showroom in Lee’s Summit, MO, to support both residential and commercial work across the Kansas City region, while back home in Wichita, a 9,000-square-foot expansion will nearly double fabrication capacity and further strengthen their regional presence.

The Cambria Connection

When Cyle and Spencer bought the company, Cambria already represented a significant share of its work—so much so that continuing the relationship was key to the transition. “Cambria has been in Keystone’s DNA since the beginning,” Cyle says. 

That commitment is immediately visible in its showrooms, where Cambria takes center stage. Firsthand experience reinforces that decision: both the owners and team members have visited Cambria’s Minnesota facilities. “The factory is spotless—you could eat off the floor. Once you’ve seen it, you understand why it’s the best product on the market,” he says.

Projects in Focus

From Residential to Commercial: Cambria’s Woodcroft™ showcases its versatility across a range of Keystone’s projects. For example: In a basement bar, the design clads the countertops, its warm gold veining echoes the surrounding wood tones. And at Wichita State University, the same design is thermoformed to create a curved reception desk paired with a striking diagonal structure, a signature fabrication technique for the company.

Double-Island Display: In this kitchen remodel, a pair of islands create a stunning centerpiece. Black Rock™* clads the first island with a precise mitered-edge waterfall, mirroring the dark cabinetry and tile backsplash. On the perimeter and additional island, Ironsbridge introduces a bright contrast, providing balance.

An Office Refined: In a client’s commercial office, Brittanicca Gold Warm™ defines the reception desk, featuring precise mitered edges and a symmetrical diagonal waterfall. The warm wisps of copper gold are enhanced by the desk’s metallic ridges, creating an elegant entryway to the space.

Commercial Innovation

Keystone continues to take on projects that highlight its expertise in complex, large-scale fabrication. Beyond residential spaces, their growing commercial portfolio spans education, healthcare, and hospitality. A recent casino project features more than 50 slabs of Cambria’s Golden Dragon™, with extensive wall cladding and surface installations throughout the property, showcasing the team’s ability to deliver both artistry and precision on a grand scale.

Always Delivering

Keystone’s ethos is simple: say yes and execute any challenge. “We’re not afraid to jump in and figure it out,” Spencer explains. That mindset shows up in advanced work: thermoforming in-house; executing knife edges and integrated drain boards; and delivering precise backlighting and bookmatching. For example, Cambria’s Brighton™ appears in a dramatic backlit installation in their Lee’s Summit showroom. For Cyle and Spencer, that spirit of innovation defines their future, constantly refining techniques, expanding capabilities, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in fabrication.

*Gensler product design consultant