Are there any recent breakthroughs in lighting technology that you find particularly exciting or promising?
Breakthroughs in general technology have facilitated innovations in lighting and controls technology at a faster pace than ever before. With AI being very much at the forefront of technology today and in the future, lighting and systems manufacturers are keeping pace. One innovation is the integration of smart systems and low voltage lighting that allows for smaller fixtures, less wiring and a more user-friendly interface. When you consider all the services provided to hotel guests, the prospect of seamless integration and simpler interactions is exciting and very promising. A sampling of services that can be integrated into hotel guest rooms include controls for lighting, audio/video, guest services, universal design for special needs, motorized shades, climate control, sensors that detect CO2 and heartbeats and color changing or circadian lighting. State-of-the-art technology is available now that can offer streamlined controls and aesthetics to elevate the guest experience.
Can you describe a project where the lighting completely transformed the atmosphere or function of a space?
Our design philosophy considers lighting to be so much more than a layout on a plan. Lighting is about feeling, emotion and the human experience. One of our clients was remodeling a property and knew that the existing lighting was lacking in the qualities that evoked positive vibes and a sense of place. Through meaningful discussions with this client, we discovered that he loved the lighting quality seen in Film Noir movies of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Using this information as inspiration, we were able to transform the interior space with carefully curated lighting effects into an environment that was both inviting and intriguing.
How do you tailor your lighting solutions to reflect the unique identity and branding of each client?
We consider every project to be a prototype for that unique brand or identity. Through the process of deep discovery and curiosity about the client and the brand’s characteristics, we distill information down to its essence and then tell that story with lighting. Since lighting informs everything else in an environment, we prefer to be informed as to the architectural and decorative nuances that will help us tell that story. A boisterous sports bar will have a very different vibe and lighting scheme than a calming wellness spa. The common denominator is that light touches everything in a space. Therefore, every aspect of the materials, finishes, furnishings and architectural features is considered, albeit with a unique and fresh approach for each project.
What emerging trends do you foresee in architectural lighting design, and how is Tirschwell Lighting Design preparing to adapt to these changes?
One trend in architectural lighting that has emerged is that overhead downlights are falling out of favor with consumers. Celebrities have spoken out on social media about the glare of lights from above and has helped influence this sentiment among their followers. Tirschwell Lighting Design’s practice is already ahead of the curve, as we eschew the overuse of downlights in ceilings and opt to light spaces in ways that are more creative and organic. We think of what we do as luminous poetry. Light should be felt, not seen. We buck trends by using the properties of light to create glow, reflectivity and shadow with great intention, not just simply adding light fixtures for illumination. We use downlights sparingly and innovation abundantly.
