2021: A look back on a pretty incredible year

As we look forward to the New Year, and say ‘fond farewell’ to 2021, we’re reflecting on the eventful year it has been!

Although there have been a fair share of challenges: supply chain issues, such as importing our MOSO Bamboo from Holland, rising commodities prices and occasional difficulties sourcing materials – even screws – we have nevertheless experienced a tremendous year full of unbelievable moments and highlights.

So instead of focussing on the obstacles, we’re going to reflect back on the high points – all the partnerships, launches, events and business growth that have made 2021 so memorable.

Firstly though, we’d like to express how truly grateful we are to our customers and partners as well as our friends and family for their continued support. Relationships make our business what it is, and with you by our side we are building a business that’s undeniably different and unique.

Without further ado, here are just a few of the highlights of 2021…

Launching fresh Collections.

In 2021, we launched several new collections, extending GCATLY’s existing offering to comprise ceramic lighting in our Laverick Collection, fire pits and our simple-yet-elegant Tala range of pendant and wall lights.

Our Laverick Collection would see us partner with incredible Staffordshire-based father and son ceramicists Tony and Jack Laverick, who we are delighted to be working with.

Our inaugural collaboration with Jardin Blanc.

In September we were proud to supply bespoke interior and exterior pieces to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show’s renowned botanical-themed pop-up restaurant Jardin Blanc, helmed by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc OBE.

Our 50+ handcrafted luminaires were essential to delivering an immersive atmosphere and we were thrilled to receive many congratulations on our contribution, from the event organisers, from fellow contributors and from the man himself. (Pictured: Our director Jeff and Chef Blanc becoming bons amis over a game of petanque)

The 2021 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, its first-ever show held in the autumn, was also our second experience as exhibitors. We were delighted to receive glowing comments from the judging panel, who gave our stand four stars and described it as ‘beautiful’ and ‘very well presented’. We are currently planning for our appearance at RHS Chelsea 2022, which will take place in late May.

Growing our reputation for IP44-rated lighting.

A little while ago, we set ourselves the lofty goal of becoming the UK’s go-to supplier of handcrafted IP44-rated lighting for bathrooms. And thanks to our growing profile online and amazing word-of-mouth referrals, we are emerging as a supplier of choice to some of the nation’s biggest names in hospitality, architecture and interior design.

Our products have caught the attention of hoteliers Ian and Christa Taylor, who collaborated with architectural lighting designer Sally Storey (Lighting Design International) and subsequently incorporated our lighting into the renovation of their own home and also their boutique hotels. We’re delighted to work closely with all our customers, from top designers to DIYers, to achieve bespoke luminaires that fit their needs both in form and function. (To read more about our past work, click here.)

New digs.

Finally, our director Jeff was delighted to cut the ribbon on his all-new home office, designed by Oakwood Garden Rooms based in Leeds and built by Jeff himself. The new garden office has given Jeff all the space and quiet he needs to help our valued customers, and to be creative too!

It’s hard to believe we are already closing the book on 2021, but we can’t wait to kick off another year of exciting new collaborations and developments.

See you in 2022!

For more lighting commentary, design news and advice, follow Gwyn Carless At The Light Yard on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.