A new year of seasonal focuses at Ragdale Hall
As we head into a brand new year, filled with fresh starts, hopes and aspirations, there is a luxury spa nestled in the Leicestershire countryside that has a whole year planned for elevating wellness.
Now in my 3rd year of commissioned work with Ragdale Hall Spa, I’m excited to start the new year showcasing a brand new ‘seasonal focus’ illustration titled ‘Awakening’. These seasonal focuses aim to stay in tune with each quarter, or season, of the year and tailor treatments and activities at the spa that will compliment the offerings of the season. My brief is to create an icon like illustration that conveys the tailored messaging of each focus, which can then be used alongisde marketing and promotional products.
The icon
Inspired by spring and slow emergence of flowers following a cold winter, I created this icon style illustration filled with crocuses, winter ammonites and of course, snowdrops; the ultimate symbol of the coming spring and rejuvenation. This icon was then used throughout the hall for all their marketing purposes as well as online, particularly to advertise their limited edition spa day offering under the same name.
Application
The most important thing about the design was it’s versatility, and so it was key to ensure that elements of the illustration could be pulled apart to be used for other marketing that was used around the hall. These large screens feature throughout the spa, showcasing various offerings and treatments, which the individual flower elements were used to not only help adorn but signal to the viewer that this too was part of the ‘Awakening’ theme.
Being commissioned by Ragdale is a special thing for me; not just because they are an award winning spa, but because it’s been a special place for myself and my mum to visit for many years prior to working with them. Every (paid) visit I make with my mum is always a pinch me moment; seeing my work through the halls of the historical property or in the gift shop never gets old, and find myself quietly whispering to myself “Can you believe it, you did this!”
I look forward to sharing more of these seasonal focuses throughout the year, but until then I have updated my Portfolio page with all of Ragdale’s 2025 and 2024’s illustrations.
