Introducing Doug
Doug in his “creative’ place.
“It gives me much satisfaction when I design and produce beautiful pieces of functional sculpture. The kind of quality that stands the test of time, pieces that are eventually passed on to other family members.”
Kia ora koutou!
My name is Douglas Pearson, I’m the owner/creator of Retro Soul Design.
I was born in Kawakawa, Aotearoa New Zealand and grew up in Whangarei exploring and surfing Northlands magical landscapes and coastlines.
After graduating from Northland Polytechnics Diploma in Visual Communications (majoring in graphic design), I left New Zealand shortly there after and began my extensive travels abroad capturing high-end imagery for some of the world's most prestigious image libraries. My images have graced the covers of a large array of international publications, calendars, guide books, novels, CD's, TV adverts, advertising campaigns as well as countless internet uses.
I recently returned permanently from living in Europe and established myself in Northland as a commercial photographer while busily growing/developing Retro Soul Design out of the coastal paradise which is Ngunguru. I firmly believe that creating the highest quality hand made bespoke lamps and lampshades (using locally sourced sustainable woods) is the best way. In a world of mass produced, low quality goods we strive to produce top quality products that enrich peoples lives/homes with that extra feel good factor.
I’m really excited about the future of Retro Soul Design! We have new in-house fabrics being designed as we speak, as well as some really cool new products to unveil very shortly. I’m also really excited about the artist collaboration project that we’re working on as well. I will be inviting some of New Zealand’s amazing artists to use their unique styles/genres to create stunning shades to complement RSD’s beautifully sculpted wooden bases.
Watch this space!
Nga mihi,
Doug
Introducing Stocky
Stocky is the talented wood turner (and good friend) behind the exquisite Retro Soul Design lamp bases. Stocky lives on a particularly beautiful hill top local overlooking the magical Pataua North. This is where he breathes new life into the often recycled native timbers that are used in our products. Stocky is an avid surfer/fisherman who maintains an almost zen balance of a life leaning more towards lifestyle than work. This is a part of the RSD ethos... "work to live, not live to work". Love your work bro!”
“Work to live, not live to work.”