Bespoke Internal Oak Interpretation Displays
DAB Graphics were commissioned by Monkie Limited of Nottingham to manufacture a suite of bespoke internal oak interpretation displays for the nationally significant St Mary Magdalene Church in Newark-on-Trent.
Following a two-year development and quotation period, production began in November 2025 with a fixed installation deadline of February 2026.
The project included:
● Interactive touchscreen lecterns
● Static oak interpretation lecterns
● Freestanding vertical display units
All units were positioned throughout the church interior to enhance visitor engagement while respecting the historic fabric of the building.
The Brief
The interpretation displays needed to sit naturally within a medieval ecclesiastical interior while providing a durable and future-proof solution for both digital and printed interpretation content.
Key requirements included:
● A furniture-grade finish suitable for a nationally important church
● Robust construction for a high-footfall public environment
● Seamless integration of digital technology
● Full accessibility, including Braille interpretation panels
Balancing heritage sensitivity with modern functionality was central to the success of the scheme.
Materials and Craftsmanship
Each unit was constructed using kiln-dried solid oak combined with oak-veneered MDF components. The displays were finished in a durable two-pack lacquer, creating a refined, furniture-quality appearance while ensuring long-term resilience.
The production programme required a significant push through the Christmas period and was expertly delivered by our cabinet maker, Fred Somerscales.
The result is oak joinery that feels entirely at home within the architectural setting — detailed, balanced and built to last.
Technical Integration
The interactive touchscreen lecterns represented the most technically complex aspect of the project.
Each pedestal was carefully designed to discreetly house:
● Touchscreen monitors
● Media hardware
● Cabling systems
● Integrated speakers
● Essential ventilation
All technical components were concealed within a visually calm, traditionally crafted oak structure.
Accessibility was a critical consideration. Dedicated Braille interpretation panels were carefully incorporated into the oak framework, ensuring they integrated seamlessly with the overall design language.
The Result
The completed displays successfully combine traditional craftsmanship with modern digital interpretation technology.
The family of oak interpretation units now sits naturally within the church interior, providing engaging, accessible and durable interpretation points for visitors.
The project was extremely well received by both the client team and the church.
Heritage Craftsmanship, Modern Interpretation
This project demonstrates how bespoke oak interpretation displays can enhance historic interiors without compromising their character.
By combining skilled joinery, integrated digital technology and careful material selection, DAB Graphics delivered a robust and refined interpretation solution tailored to a nationally significant heritage environment.