BRINGING THE DEER INSIDE

Commission for The Deer Park

Set within the rolling countryside of Staffordshire, The Deer Park is a venue rooted in landscape, heritage and sustainability. This commission was about capturing that spirit in a subtle, considered way — creating lighting that reflects the estate’s wildlife, supports its commitment to local craftsmanship, and brings a sense of the outdoors into the heart of the building.

PROJECT GOALS

Lesley Prince wanted the lighting to reflect what makes The Deer Park so special — its land, its wildlife, and its commitment to thoughtful, sustainable choices.
Rather than the traditional stag head motif, the brief was clear: full deer. Movement. Elegance. Presence. The estate is home to eleven female red deer and one rare white stag, and the aim was to bring that living landscape indoors.
The shades also needed to align with the venue’s ethos of supporting local artisans and conscious design, while sitting comfortably within the warm, rustic interior.

CREATIVE APPROACH

Each lampshade was handcrafted from fused recycled plastic, creating a softly textured, translucent surface that glows warmly when lit.
Full-bodied deer silhouettes circle each shade, captured mid-leap to suggest rhythm and freedom. When illuminated, the figures appear almost in motion, adding quiet drama without overpowering the space.
Mounted on sculptural wooden bases, the natural grain and organic forms echo the surrounding parkland. The materials speak to each other — reclaimed plastic paired with solid wood — grounding the design in sustainability and craftsmanship.

A SIGNATURE TOUCH

This project is rooted in an ongoing relationship. I work at The Deer Park and have been part of their Christmas Market for four consecutive years, so there’s a shared understanding of values and audience.
The shades are not fixed in one location. They move throughout the building, allowing guests to experience them in different settings. More than decorative pieces, they act as conversation starters — inviting bespoke commissions inspired by the estate.
Lighting with a story. Design with purpose.

CHALLENGES AND HIGHLIGHTS

Capturing the strength and grace of the deer in silhouette was key. The figures needed to feel alive — recognisable, balanced, and elegant from every angle of the shade.
Another important consideration was ensuring the recycled material remained refined. The texture had to feel natural and calm, complementing the interior rather than competing with it.
A highlight was seeing the warm light bring depth to the fused plastic, softly illuminating the deer forms and enhancing the atmosphere of the room.

THE RESULT

Lighting that reflects its surroundings.
Materials that align with the venue’s sustainability values.
Craftsmanship that supports local collaboration.
The finished pieces sit effortlessly within The Deer Park — subtle yet distinctive. A quiet celebration of landscape, wildlife, and conscious design, brought together in one considered commission.