The lighting design process is typically structured around key phases that align with the architectural and constructional timeline. This ensures successful coordination with all disciplines. Throughout every phase, deliverables are customized to the needs of the project. Whether a new build, renovation, historic restoration, or retrofit, my approach is individual, transparent, collaborative, and committed to architectural integrity and environmental responsibility.
1. Concept Development
The lighting vision is shaped in response to the architectural intent, purpose of use, and desired atmosphere.
- Site audit or assessment
- Lighting concept narrative and design goals
- Mood boards and visual references
- 2D digital visualizations
- Strategic sustainability and daylighting targets
- Input on architectural lighting opportunities
2. Schematic Design
Preliminary layouts, light fixture types, and lighting control strategies are developed to explore feasibility.
- Preliminary CAD lighting layouts
- Light fixture typology proposals
- Zoning and basic lighting control concepts
- Early coordination with details of structural and material components
- Daylight integration concepts
- Initial compliance review of relevant lighting standards or building certification
3. Design Development
Lighting plans are refined, and light fixture selections are coordinated with materials and systems.
- Refined CAD drawings, including lighting plans, sections, and elevations
- Lighting mock-ups of proposed light fixtures
- 3D digital modeling of space and photometric calculation of proposed lighting installation
- Light fixture specifications and technical data
- Light fixture schedule identifying manufacturer, types, quantities, and mounting details
- Detailed lighting control strategy and control system diagrams
- Coordination drawings incorporating planning details of other disciplines
4. Construction Documentation
Detailed drawings and specifications are prepared to guide installation and ensure compliance.
- Finalized lighting plans and technical drawings
- Detailed light fixture schedule including final specifications
- Lighting control risers and circuiting diagrams
- Integration details for architectural elements
- Lighting standards code compliance documentation
- Building certification credit compliance documentation
- Lighting legend and notes for contractors
5. Procurement and Construction Support
Design intent is supported through review of submittals, coordination with contractors, and site communication.
- Review of light fixture submittals and shop drawings
- On-site coordination with architects and contractors
- Responses to RFIs
- Lighting control review with system vendors
6. Aiming, Programming and Commissioning
Light fixtures are focused, and lighting controls are programmed to deliver the intended experience.
- On-site aiming and focusing of luminaires
- Control system setup and scene programming (with system vendor specialists)
- Dimming and daylight sensor calibration (with system vendor specialists)
- Final walk-through and post-installation review
7. Post-Occupancy Support
Ongoing support is provided through maintenance planning, system tuning, and performance review.
- Maintenance and fixture cleaning guidelines
- As-built documentation updates
- Lighting system performance review
- Scene refinements based on occupant feedback (with system vendor specialists)
- Follow-up consultations or site visits
- Support for post-occupancy building certification credits
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