The Refilling Station Contribution
Back in November, Kirsty mentioned that we were taking part in the Chapel Allerton Spaces Living Advent Calendar, where a new advent window is revealed each day of December up until Christmas Day. I love using light and colour to create spaces which welcome people in, so when Kirsty asked if I’d like to take on the design of the advent window, I leapt at the chance, and enlisted fellow Leeds-based creative Philip Scott to work together on the project.
For me, the Christmas season has always evoked feelings of anticipation and excitement; looking forward to time spent with loved ones, enjoying good food and feeling cosy by the fire. I wanted to capture that atmosphere and display it in a way which illustrates the ethos here at The Refilling Station.
As much as possible, we’ve used natural materials - foraged wood and berries, natural twine and raffia, and recycled wrapping paper too. We filled glass baubles with some of the dry food products from the shop, as a reminder that even at Christmas time, it’s possible to shop packaging-free.
Glass baubles filled with dry wholefoods
Using warm light from the filament bulbs and lights woven through the foliage has helped to bring together a window which feels welcoming and cosy even on a cold day. This is what really underpins the display, as it reminds us of what advent is pointing towards - that at Christmas, we can remember that there is light even when the world feels dark.
Image of glass baubles
Philip and I absolutely loved designing and installing the window - and I feel very fortunate to work for people who trust me to drill holes in their shop and hang logs from the ceiling! Please do pop by and have a look - the display will be up until the New Year.
If you’re interested in our other work, Philip and I both run instagram accounts to showcase our art - you can find us at @lizziefrycreative and @philipscottart.
