Lighting - Q&A

1/ What are the common challenges of using lighting as an artistic element? 

For me, it's primarily about budget and the project's permanence. Temporary installations allow for more bold and impactful designs, while permanent ones need to be subtler to avoid losing their appeal over time. Budget constraints are another major issue, as clients or local authorities often lack the funds for elaborate, artistic lighting. Simple, creative techniques, like using theater gels, can still achieve magical results without breaking the bank. Lighting, when done right, can evoke powerful emotions—think of a sunset, which is free yet deeply moving. The challenge is creating something equally impactful within the limits of cost and practicality. 

2/ How do you see the role of lighting designers positioned between architects and interior designers in the design process? 

I’ve been fortunate to work with open-minded teams where collaboration led to great results. Successful projects require mutual understanding—lighting designers need to align with the vision and materials, while architects and interior designers must grasp how light works. Challenges arise when their vision conflicts with the physics of light, requiring creative solutions to achieve a similar outcome. 

Collaboration is crucial, as each role brings unique expertise. Lighting designers focus on how light interacts with materials and spaces, while interior designers craft emotions through textures, colors, and shapes, and architects handle structural elements. Miscommunication, like last-minute material changes, can cause issues, so open discussions early in the process are key. When we collaborate effectively, the result is always stronger and more cohesive. 

3/ How can we improve? 

Teamwork and open communication are essential. Successful projects often evolve through collaboration, where unexpected ideas lead to better outcomes. Letting go of control and embracing input from all team members creates stronger results. Hands-on mockups and interactive demos are also invaluable. Showing how light works with materials helps others understand its impact. For example, an exhibition where clients explored lighting firsthand made the experience fun and educational, leading to deeper insights and better solutions.

1/ What effect does lighting have on floor covering especially?

The effect of lighting on floor covering is influenced by two key factors: texture and color. Dark or black floors reflect less light compared to light or white floors. Additionally, rough textures reduce light reflection, while shiny surfaces reflect more. For example, a shiny black floor reflects more light than a rough black floor, but both reflect less than a light-colored floor. Choosing light-colored flooring can enhance reflection, potentially reducing the need for additional lighting fixtures. However, the choice ultimately depends on the desired ambiance and functionality.

2/ Is there a method for layering light based on human height?

The use of the space and the activities performed are key factors. For instance, the height of the person, whether seated or standing, should guide the light placement. If someone is seated, like on a couch for reading, the light source should be at a height that provides adequate illumination. Adjustable lamps, such as floor lamps, can offer flexibility for users of different heights.

For layering light in a room, consider both aesthetics and functionality. For example, hanging lamps near a bedside table may look appealing but may not provide sufficient light for reading. In such cases, either adjust the height of the lamp or add a dedicated reading light. The goal is to align lighting with the intended purpose.

3/ How would you balance layered warm indoor lights with abundant natural light from large windows?

Warm artificial light typically ranges from 2700K to 3000K, while natural light, especially midday sunlight, spans 5500K to 6500K. This contrast can significantly impact activities and experiences in a room, potentially causing glare discomfort. However, natural light is essential for our well-being and circadian rhythms, so it should be controlled, not blocked.

Sheer curtains or blinds, whether automated or manual, can help diffuse natural light without eliminating it. Additionally, using dimmers for warm artificial lighting allows you to adjust intensity based on available daylight. This flexibility enables a bright, energetic ambiance during the day and a cozy atmosphere in the evening.

In office settings, where sheer curtains might not be suitable, alternative brightness-control strategies can be employed. The key is to embrace natural light as a vital design element, balancing it with warm indoor lighting for a harmonious and functional environment.

4/ How can lighting and flooring work together to create zones or transitions in open-plan spaces?

Lighting and flooring can be seamlessly combined to define zones or guide transitions. For example, if the flooring design features a distinct shape, such as a circular pattern with contrasting colors, spotlights can be angled to emphasize that area, drawing attention to its purpose—like highlighting a sculpture.

Perimeter lighting is another effective tool to enhance the texture and color of flooring, while also subtly guiding movement. In spaces like hotel corridors, lighting along the edges often directs people along the intended path, working in harmony with the flooring pattern to reinforce navigation. This interplay of light and floor design not only creates visually distinct zones but also enhances functionality, helping users intuitively navigate the space.

5/ Is there a ratio between the size of a dining table and a pendant light?

Yes, there is, and it depends on two factors: the height of the fixture and the table's size and shape.

Height: Pendant lights should typically hang 70-75 cm above the tabletop to allow clear views and comfortable conversations, though adjustments may be needed based on the fixture design.

Size: Rectangular tables: The pendant should be about half to two-thirds the width and length of the table. For example, a 150 cm by 75 cm table would pair well with a pendant 37.5-50 cm wide and 75-100 cm long.

Round tables: The pendant diameter should be around two-thirds to three-quarters of the table’s width. For instance, a 90 cm wide table works well with a pendant 60-67.5 cm in diameter. Always adapt these guidelines to suit the specific fixture and design.

6/ Should downlighting be placed above the sofa or to the side in a living room?

It's better to position downlighting slightly to the side of the sofa. Placing it directly above can cast unflattering shadows on people's faces.

For a well-rounded lighting setup, combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to enhance functionality and visual appeal. Adding dimmers allows for easy mood adjustment, making the space adaptable for various activities.

7/ How can I ensure a space has enough lighting when designing plans based on usage rather than grid formats?

Here are some key tips: Understand the Space's Functions: Identify the activities the space will host—reading, cooking, or socializing—and design lighting accordingly. Use strategic lighting to define zones in open-plan layouts, ensuring both visual and functional organization.

Utilize Layered Lighting: Ambient lighting provides general illumination with fixtures like recessed lights, pendants, or chandeliers.

Task lighting focuses on specific activities, such as desk lamps or under-cabinet lights, positioned to minimize shadows and maximize functionality.

Accent lighting highlights artwork or architectural features, adding depth and interest.

Incorporate Dimmers and Smart Controls: Dimmers or smart systems let you adjust brightness based on the time of day or activity, increasing flexibility and comfort. They also serve as a backup in case the lighting is oversized.

By focusing on layered lighting and adaptability, you can confidently achieve a well-lit and functional space.

8/ Is the color of lighting important, and how does it relate to other elements?

Absolutely. The color temperature of lighting is as critical as the light itself, influencing the mood, functionality, and aesthetics of a space. Here are key points to consider:

Consistency Matters: Mixing different color temperatures within a room can create an unbalanced and visually discordant atmosphere. Maintain a uniform temperature to preserve the desired ambiance.

Common Applications of Color Temperature: Warm Light (1700K - 3000K): Perfect for creating cozy and inviting spaces, such as homes, restaurants, and lounges, where relaxation is the goal. Cool Light (4000K - 6500K): Energizing and stimulating, ideal for workspaces like offices and labs where focus and productivity are key.

Tailoring to Needs: Trust your instincts when selecting lighting. For instance, using warmer lighting (around 3000K) in offices can enhance well-being and provide a more welcoming environment, deviating from the standard 4000K often used.

The best lighting choice ultimately depends on the space's specific purpose and the atmosphere you wish to create.

9/ How important is the color of indoor lighting in current design practices?

The color of indoor lighting is a critical element in modern lighting design, impacting various aspects: Psychological Effects: Warm tones (2700K–3000K) create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for homes and hospitality, while cooler tones (4000K–6500K) enhance focus and alertness, making them suitable for offices and schools. Understanding these effects allows designers to boost well-being and productivity.

Aesthetic Impact: Lighting color interacts with interior design to highlight architectural features, artwork, or materials. For instance, warm hues enhance wooden textures, while cool tones emphasize modern materials like glass and metal.

Functionality: The right color temperature improves visibility and reduces eye strain, especially in task-oriented spaces like kitchens or workshops, ensuring both practicality and comfort.

Trends and Innovation: Dynamic lighting systems that adjust color temperature throughout the day support circadian rhythms and mimic natural light. Staying attuned to such trends allows designers to enhance user experience.

Lighting color isn’t just a stylistic choice—it’s a fundamental aspect of design that influences mood, functionality, and user satisfaction. Prioritizing it ensures environments that are both visually appealing and supportive of human needs.