2007

OUR STORY BEGINS IN FRANCE

Living in Avignon in the South of France, Jeff retires from over a decade working in the hospitality industry and finds inspiration in the dramatic night-time scenes created by exterior lighting cast onto classical French architecture.

He launches an online shop, Adorable Eclairage, suppliying high-end exterior lighting to private French residences and châteaux throughout France and Switzerland.

2011

A first collection from British artisan Gwyn Carless

Jeff seeks British handcrafted luminaires and a full collection of indoor lights to add to his offering.

As he shifts focus to collaborating with British artisans, he connects with Master Craftsman Gwyn Carless and launches the GCD exterior collection in France.

2013

The Light Yard is founded

Jeff and his expanding young family returned to settle in the picturesque Northwest of England, which inspired him to establish an English version of the successful French website Adorable Eclairage.

From its inception, The Light Yard is dedicated to upholding its core values of delivering exceptional service, trust, and integrity.

2015

The Alchemist Collection is launched

Working with a handful of select producers, The Light Yard grows its reputation for supplying handcrafted, high-quality outdoor lighting.

Jeff and Gwyn experiment with traditional Edison filament light bulbs, leading to an all new collection of luminaires.

The Alchemist Collection is officially launched in March 2015 at the Hotel Design Summit London.

2017

Our interactive showroom opens

The Light Yard showroom officially opens in Leigh, Greater Manchester, its integrated Luxone automation system providing an immersive experience of sound and light.

2018

Production moves to Chesterfield

Due to increased demand, production of the GCD collection relocates to a new 1400 sq-ft red-brick industrial unit in Chesterfield.

Gwyn and the small team build in new efficiencies which will streamline the manufacture and shipping process for quicker delivery to clients.

2019

HERE WE COME!
THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

With many lessons learnt from their previous RHS show at Tatton Park in Cheshire, England, Jeff and Gwyn successfully gain a stand at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show and realised their dream.

The show proves to be a huge success and plans are made for the 2020 show.

2019

DAVID LLOYD HEALTH CLUBS - A SPECIAL COMMISSION

After seeing Jeff and Gwyn at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, David Lloyd commissions them to design a new lighting scheme for their new Spa areas.

2020

A new identity: Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard

Positioning the business for ongoing growth, Jeff and Gwyn re-envision the brand identity in order to underscore the company’s artisanal offering and unique business model.

Now Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard, all lighting is produced exclusively through Gwyn’s Chesterfield design studio and workshop.

2020

the unexpected challenge

In light of the pandemic, the long-term stability and growth of the business were assessed, and the decision was made to close the Greater Manchester-based showroom.

This move allowed Jeff and Gwyn to retain all their staff and supplier contracts and to keep the workshop fully operational. Investment in website development was increased to create a seamless online retail experience for visitors. 

With the cancellation of this year's RHS Chelsea Flower Show, more time and effort was freed up to focus on new designs and product ranges for the winter.

2021

BACK WITH A BANG!

With the entire world still recovering from the effects of a global pandemic, Jeff & Gwyn were proud contributors to the RHS's first-ever Autumnal Chelsea Flower Show.

They were also honoured to be commissioned by renowned chef patron Raymond Blanc OBE to illuminate the gardens at his botanical-themed pop-up restaurant, Jardin Blanc.

2022

A VERY SPECIAL INVITE

Still enthused from last year's RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Jeff and Gwyn are invited back by Raymond Blanc OBE to illuminate the stunning landscaped gardens of his pop up restaurant, Jardin Blanc.

"The Lighting Pieces looked stunning and were truly admired by our guests"

Raymond Blanc OBE

2022

RHS CHELSEA - A NEW CHAPTER

Now becoming a regular event in the diary, Jeff & Gwyn are commissioned once again to illuminate the pop-up restaurant as the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

A brand new concept is launched under the guidance of one of London's finest event catering companies, Alison Price & Co and celebrity chef Skye Gyngell.

Spring Garden is born and the new exterior lighting scheme is specially developed around the displays by renowned floral artist Amie Bone.

2024

SPRING GARDEN AT THE RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Following the massive success of the first Spring Garden and with year-long preparations complete, Jeff and Gwyn once again head down to London.

Italian themed restaurants and gardens transform the home of the Chelsea Pensioners and a comprehensive and unique lighting scheme is installed.

2024

SBID GLOBAL AWARD WINNERS!

We rounded off the year with our 1st ever SBID Awards held at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, Hyde Park, London.

We were proud and privileged to have been guests of Focus SB at the awards. The design collaboration journey has been fascinating and a constant learning curve.