Set up six years ago by Rohan Blacker, Pooky is all about beautiful decorative lighting that doesn’t break the bank. It took two years for Rohan to plan: sourcing the right suppliers, coming up with great designs and developing a website that would appeal to those looking for a fun, fresh and innovative approach to lighting.
The company prides itself on top level service. More than 10,000 near perfect reviews from satisfied customers don’t lie
Key to this was the idea of being able to mix and match different bases with any number of shades – something that traditional retailers were simply not able to offer in the same way. Over time this principle has been applied to other areas of the business, too. So now Pooky (a name chosen mainly because it’s memorable and punchy) also has a market-leading selection of wall fittings, to which shades in all kinds of materials, from ceramic to glass, can be added according to individual taste, as well as a large selection of pendants that can be adapted in the same way.
Today, the company has a loyal following with clients around the world ranging from home owners to interior designers, as well as celebrated restaurants and well-know hotels (including Belmond La Residencia Mallorca, The Painswick in the Cotswolds and the Artist Residence group, to name just a few). Pooky also has a pair of showrooms in Chelsea and Gloucestershire that customers can visit for inspiration to help make great lighting decisions.
Perhaps one of the important developments for the growing business has been the opening of its own shade manufacturing facility that means exciting new designs can be launched quicker and more efficiently. This includes an exciting new collaboration with Matthew Williamson (it’s as bold and brilliantly colourful as you’d expect), as well as a collection of shades based on old Damascan tile designs (think striking geometric patterns that will bring colour and pattern to any home) where some of the proceeds of sales will be donated to the Hands Up for Syria Foundation.
Other additions to the range include stunning chandeliers and wall lights, tiny ceramic pendants, new lamp bases and numerous outdoor lights. As part of the latter, there are contemporary cylindrical pillar lights in copper; understated round wall lights in aged brass that will mellow and darken naturally over time; and discreet downlighters. Combine the new shade factory with Pooky’s already extensive global network of specialist craftspeople – working in disciplines such as glass blowing, brass casting, weaving, block printing, marbling, wood carving and glazing – and the company is perfectly set-up to offer a bespoke design and delivery service for large commercial developments and projects. Almost everything in the range can be customised too, using alternative colours, fabrics or finishes.
What’s more, the company prides itself on its top level service (more than 10,000 near perfect reviews from satisfied customers don’t lie) and its positive working relationships with suppliers. But above all it understands how important lighting is to any interior design scheme and simply wants to offer thoughtfully designed, well-made solutions that are accessible to all. Lighting that’s made to last, that will add colour and warmth to any space.
