Global design firm HBA has announced the launch of Illuminate. Working with architects and interior designers across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and America, Illuminate will be creating perfectly crafted and sustainable lighting solutions across the commercial and hospitality industries. Striving to fashion good lighting design dictated firstly by an emotional and creative response, director Simon Berry took the time to speak to TL about the future plans of Illuminate.
Q: Can you tell us a little more about Illuminate and the design team?
Q: What key areas must be taken into consideration when designing lighting solutions?
Simon Berry of Illuminate
I always remember the saying ‘you only get one chance to make a first impression’ and I strongly believe this runs true in terms of hospitality lighting design. The reception or entrance lobby is where the guest first takes shelter and it is here that you want the journey to begin.
Q: How do you create a balance of artificial and natural light within a project?
Clearly when someone walks in from a bright exterior, the interior has to respond in a similar manner, the same can be said when night time falls.
To do this effectively you have to ensure the lighting is layered in a manner which enables this flexibility. Pair this with a good blind or fenestration coating, all controlled by an intelligent control system and you will create a seamless balance while conserving energy.
Q: What is your opinion on the importance of sustainability within lighting design?
Everyone has a responsibility to ensure their actions do not have a negative effect on the environment. In terms of lighting design, this is ensuring the most efficient environmentally-friendly lamp sources are used, whether this is LED, discharge or the energy saving tungsten halogen.
Q: How does Illuminate incorporate sustainability within its designs?
We have been taking this into account for so long it has almost become second nature. We always ensure we are using the most appropriate lamp mounted within the most efficient optic and operated by the most flexible control system.
Q: Do you believe that sometimes designers become too concerned with energy efficiency forgetting the purpose of the design project?
That’s a very controversial question. Maybe if the project is used to generate interest in a certain treatment, then for sure. If that’s the sales pitch, then that is the intention, but I believe any independent lighting designer would tell you the same thing ‘it’s all about the lit effect’ and that is, and will always be, our primary concern.
Q: How do you stay on trend with your designs?
Trend is dictated by technology and fashion and then the subsequent demand for each. If you find it useful chasing the trend, then you are already one step behind, so this ends up being related to creativity and how you maintain that balance of exposure and knowledge.
Contact:
www.illuminateld.com
