Steve Keeling

Professional profile-

After achieving a BA (Hons) in Design and Communication at Leeds Faculty of Art and Design Steve worked freelance for a number of clients and advertising agencies before setting up a small design practice with Aude Watson in 1976. In 1986 this evolved into Total Image, a multidisciplinary practice, which worked with a wide range of clients across many industry sectors. In 2016 the company merged with MONUMENTAL, a creative heritage interpretation and design practice.

Steve's key skills are the creative and practical application of design thinking and principles. This includes an understanding of materials and applied technologies, 2D (surface) and 3D (spacial) problem solving, space planning, interior and architectural design, design development and application. He uses design innovation and practice as a development tool to communicate ideas, add value (cultural and commercial) and reduce costs. 

Key project synopsis...

Mebon Paints- design and implementation of a corporate identity programme, new HQ building design and fitout. Acted as design and art director for Mebon Paints and as brand guardian when it became a BP Chemicals company. This position continued when Mebon was taken over by Croda International, 1978-94. 

The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA)- produced feasibility studies for conversion of the decommissioned Windscale Nuclear Power Station buildings into offices for SMEs, 1994. 

ABB- projects at two locations- planning of offices and hospitality building refurbishment plus office and conference facility conversion feasibility study, 1995-9. 

Allied London (property developers)- retail development and way-finding system, 2000-2001.

Bells Bakery- brand development, packaging, retail fit-outs at various locations, exhibitions, building refurbishment and new HQ office feasibility study and design, 2000-9.

The Heights of Abraham (heritage tourist attraction and Britain’s first alpine cable car system)- brand and product development, publicity, exhibitions, retail fit-outs, building refurbishments, landscaping and feasibility studies. Working regularly from 1977 when the current owners bought the estate to the present day. Since 2011, Steve has been instrumental in a programme of redevelopment and refurbishment of building and venues. In 2020 after conducting a heritage asset survey a new Heights Vision was created and documented to direct the estate’s development in the future. Steve continues to provide design consultancy services via the Monumental partnership.

The Input Group- (rail industry and building contractors). Developed the logo and brand identity and as the company grew provided design support, advice and architectural design for the enlargement of workshop and offices. From 2000 to 2022, Steve worked with The Input Group in a consultancy capacity where he has provided design proposals and solutions for: Eurostar, exhibitions London St Pancras and Bluewater, Euro despatch facilities Brussels and St Pancras International, First Capital Connect ticket offices and brand rollouts, signage programmes for East Coast Mainline plus design and visualisation for various railway station refurbishments. In recent years this has developed into interior and exterior architectural development and improvement schemes for Network Rail, South West Trains and DHL.

In 2007 he became involved with Monumental, a design and creative interpretation consultancy who provide a range of contemporary solutions for museums, heritage organisations, visitor attractions, local authorities etc. In June 2016 Steve became a Partner and Design Director and handles creative development work for larger projects, site installation and project management. For more information please visit www.monumental.uk.com