Founded in 1981 by David and Liz Village, David Village Lighting began as a small designer lighting store in Sheffield. 'Inspired by their passion for interior design and their understanding of the importance of lighting as a design feature,' the couple opened their first retail space and gradually developed relationships with established European manufacturers, including Flos and Artemide. Initial work focused on residential clients, but later expanded into commercial and UK-wide projects.
© David Village Lighting
Jack Spivey, the Business Development Manager at David Village Lighting shared his insights with us.
A specification-oriented business model
In the past five years, the company has shifted its emphasis toward trade and contract work. 'We've doubled the size of the B2B team,' they report, highlighting an expanded internal structure that allows the business to respond quickly to specification requests. Support covers everything from product aesthetics to technical advice on drivers, dimming systems, and modular configurations. The business maintains close working relationships with specifiers, contractors, and wholesalers across multiple sectors, from hospitality and healthcare to corporate and residential.
Brand curation and portfolio strategy
David Village Lighting's selection of represented brands is shaped by both design coherence and market demands. 'We've endeavoured to add in brands that "suit" the rest of the portfolio… but that fill a gap in terms of what we would've previously been unable to supply.' Recent additions have been influenced by sustainability considerations, including materiality and domestic manufacturing.
© David Village Lighting
Bega display at the Sheffield showroom.
Sheffield showroom as industry touchpoint
Since relocating six years ago, the Sheffield showroom has served as both a retail space and an inspiration hub for design professionals. 'We've curated a relaxed environment that gives an overview of some of the key premium brands in the lighting market.' A recent update included new installations from Tom Raffield, an exclusive UK launch of the Terra range by Mater, and decorative options from Anour and Zero.
The showroom strategy reflects a dual approach: accommodating qualified consumer appointments while offering professionals access to less commonly displayed European brands.
Current trends in product categories
The company notes a growing market for technically advanced products with decorative elements. 'Slimmer line track lighting, textured down lights and spotlights in a range of finishes' have gained traction, particularly where commercial and residential styles converge. High-output, small-footprint fittings also continue to perform well.
Sustainability conversations across the chain
David Village Lighting cites increased demand for sustainable product choices and transparency in the supply chain. 'We're in a position to have conversations around sustainability… with a focus on UK manufacture and more sustainable materiality.' Dialogue with specifiers also helps the company track expectations and evolving industry standards.
Industry engagement and future outlook
In 2025, the company will expand its presence in industry discourse. 'We're now in a position to take more of a role within the wider industry,' they confirm. This includes sponsorship of [d]arc talks at Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, as well as participation in panel discussions. More events and collaborations are in planning.
With its evolving showroom concept, ongoing updates to its brand portfolio, and increased trade engagement, David Village Lighting continues to navigate its positioning in a market shaped by technical requirements, aesthetic evolution, and material consciousness.
© David Village Lighting
Artemide display at the Sheffield showroom.
More information:
David Village Lighting
The Old Cinema,
5-13 Ashgate Road,
Broomhill Sheffield, S10 3BZ
+44 (0)114 2634266
info@davidvillagelighting.co.uk
www.davidvillagelighting.co.uk
United Kingdom