Lighting Designer Jason Taylor, working closely with Lighting Technician Matt Burke, has delivered an imaginative lighting design that has transformed a small former Edwardian theatre hall into a theatrical experience, blending storytelling, charm and functionality. The overall creative concept for the space was devised by Caroline Dalton, in-house designer and content creator.
This exciting new café forms part of The World of Beatrix Potter, a globally renowned attraction that celebrates the life and stories of the iconic children’s author. In May 2024, the venue was named one of the Top 10 "must-visit" family-friendly museums by travel booking platform Omio.
So, the pressure was on to raise its game when the opportunity arose to transform this empty space, owners Roger Glossop and Charlotte Scott saw potential for something more than just a simple café. Their vision: to immerse visitors in the world of Beatrix Potter using themed menus, theatrical set pieces, and a creative lighting scheme to match.
A theatrical experience - with illumination playing a major part
From the outset, Roger was clear that the lighting needed to go beyond conventional hospitality design. He wanted a scheme that told a story, one that captured the
emotional tone and playful sophistication of Beatrix Potter’s work, while still meeting the functional needs of a working café - one that would become a visitor magnet in its own right.
The cafe accommodates around 50+ diners in a range of table configurations, with the former stage area a key focal point at the far end of the space. Here, visitors get to see a rotating scenic Beatrix Potter diorama that changes every 15 minutes. The lighting was designed to complement this - creating mood, drawing focus, and enhancing the set’s transitions.
Crafting atmosphere with PROLIGHTS
Jason and Matt worked together to meet two key challenges. First, the scheme needed to provide sufficient ambient light for dining, without losing the magic of a theatrical environment. Second, it had to bring key visual features to life: Peter Rabbit figures on the walls, bespoke faux stained-glass window lightboxes, and a striking central ‘vegetable chandelier’ made from repurposed chrysanthemum fittings and warm, dimmable LEDs. If you’re familiar with Mr McGregor - this chandelier will strike a chord.
To achieve the required precision and flexibility, the team selected PROLIGHTS DATFC fixtures - compact gallery-style LEDs capable of delivering smooth colour fades, gobo effects, and sharp shuttering, which were fitted to positions on existing roof bars. The fixtures offered theatrical-level performance while being discreet enough for a hospitality space with limited rigging points.
Additionally, four PROLIGHTS profiles were mounted to newly created fixing points in high corners, allowing for carefully sculpted highlights across the space.
“Both the client and I are extremely pleased with the quality of the equipment and the successful realisation of the design. The café is now open and thriving, and we’re already looking at subtle enhancements to further refine the experience.”
