Flukes at Big Penny Social | London, UK

Flukes at Big Penny Social is a new destination in Walthamstow where hospitality lighting design meets the atmosphere of a traditional games hall. Our lighting consultancy team worked closely with the architects and interior designers to create a layered scheme that recalls the warmth and grit of old English social clubs, while supporting the demands of a busy hospitality venue.

Big Penny Social in Walthamstow has become known for its open, community-driven spaces. Flukes extends that spirit with a dedicated games hall, complete with pool tables, shuffleboard, interactive darts, karaoke booths and a stage for live entertainment. The name itself refers to a lucky shot in pool, setting the tone for a venue that is playful, social and full of character.

Commercial Lighting Design with a Vintage Edge

The brief asked for a lighting design that would capture the grungy mood of a vintage games hall. To achieve this, the Michael Grubb Studio team developed a scheme based on a mix of 2400k and 2700k light, chosen to emulate the sodium glow that once filled English pubs and billiard rooms. The result is a deliberately heavy, atmospheric quality that frames the activities of the venue in a nostalgic light.

High-level spotlights are concealed within the structure to provide general ambient illumination, while decorative fixtures at low level and on vertical surfaces add texture and character. This layering of light not only enhances the interior design but also ensures each activity zone, whether darts, karaoke or shuffleboard, feels connected within the wider hospitality environment.

Lighting the Narrative in Hospitality Setting

In a commercial hospitality setting, lighting must do more than look good; it must support the rhythm of social activity. At Flukes, the lighting balances mood and function. Pool tables and shuffleboards are lit carefully to ensure visibility without losing the warm, vintage tone. The bar is highlighted with accent lighting that draws attention without overpowering the space. Decorative details help anchor the interior, echoing the character of traditional games halls while remaining flexible for modern events.

The project brought together Unknown Works as base build architect and Hunter’s Daughter as interior designer. The collaborative approach ensured the lighting design integrated seamlessly with the architectural structure and interior finishes, creating a cohesive identity for the space. Through a carefully considered vintage-inspired lighting scheme, Flukes offers a layered, unique and atmospheric experience.