Phil Stephenson

What does your job involve?
Mainly designing interpretation panels based on client briefs. These can include additional aspects such as creative mapping and illustrations.

What do you enjoy most about working here?
Occasionally a job will come through the studio which allows for creative freedom. No templates or guidelines just my research and creativity.

What project are you particularly proud of?
We delivered a series of VE Day commemorative interpretation panels for Churchill Memorial Gardens in Brixham. The project comprised approximately eight panels, each requiring the careful integration of extensive historical content and archival imagery within a clear, engaging layout. Maintaining a cohesive visual identity across all panels while working to a fixed deadline for the commemorative event presented a significant challenge, but the outcome was both successful and rewarding.

What’s your favourite way to spend the weekend?
I’m a keen runner, so spending Saturday mornings running through the countryside is a must. Then it’s all about keeping the children entertained. If that can coincide with a trip to a nice pub then great!

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about signage?
Pubs feature illustrated signage because the earliest pub signs date back to the 12th century, when literacy levels among the general population were low. Visual symbols allowed people to identify premises easily, regardless of their ability to read.

If you could design a sign for any famous place, where would it be?
I love Formula 1, so a race circuit like Silverstone would be great.