4 minute read
ArchLIGHT Summit 2024 Turns the Corner
By Randy Reid
Photo Credit: Dallas Market Center
The upcoming ArchLIGHT Summit in Dallas, TX, on September 17 and 18 promises to be an extraordinary event, showcasing significant advancements and drawing notable figures in the lighting industry. This year, the summit has achieved remarkable milestones, including nearly sold-out floor space and participation from the three largest lighting companies.
EXHIBITOR GROWTH AND FLOOR SPACE DYNAMICS
One of the most significant highlights of this year’s summit is the impressive increase in exhibitors. Lea Tranakos, Senior Director, Audience Development and Tradeshow Sales, mentioned, “We have 104 exhibitors on the show floor, a substantial increase from the 78 exhibitors last year.” Adding two stages to the show floor for panel sessions and interactive experiences has maximized the available space, pushing associations like the American Lighting Association (ALA) to set up by the koi pond.
Cindy Foster-Warthen, Event Strategist, explained the implications of this expansion: “We have moved all sessions to the show floor based on feedback from last year. This change will create more energy and facilitate better interactions among attendees and exhibitors.”
In previous ArchLIGHT events, attendees were split between the show floor and classrooms on the third floor. The new format will consolidate all content on the show floor, enhancing the energy and engagement of the event. I first saw this practiced at Lux Live in London in 2014, and it worked quite well.
BIG NAMES AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES
The participation of major companies such as Signify, Cooper Lighting Solutions, and Acuity Brands underscores the event’s prestige. Cindy Foster-Warthen emphasized, “Having the three major lighting companies denotes the importance and growth of the ArchLIGHT Summit.”
In addition to industry giants, this year’s summit will feature innovative and immersive experiences. Cindy elaborated, “We have several immersive experiences, including a behavioral healthcare vignette sponsored by Visa Lighting and a UGR (Unified Glare Rating) vignette sponsored by Zumtobel.”
Cindy discussed a very exciting third interactive experience: "It’s a demonstration on AI and architectural visualization. This panel includes experts like Jonathan Ayala from The Lighting Exchange and representatives from Gotham and Oculus.” These setups allow attendees to experience the practical implications of different lighting designs and regulations.
Another key session, "Concept to Construction," is an extension of a popular discussion from the IALD Enlighten Conference held in Banff last year. This session will bring together a diverse panel, including reps, architects, interior designers, and lighting designers, to discuss collaboration and the pitfalls of value engineering.
NETWORKING AND HOSPITALITY
Networking remains a core focus of the ArchLIGHT Summit. Lea stated, “The buzz is incredible this year. We have curated the floor to ensure quality products and valuable networking opportunities.” The event will feature a range of hospitality activities, including a happy hour sponsored by Casambi Technologies and a breakfast sponsored by the American Association of Independent Lighting Agents (AAiLA).
The summit will also introduce the “Showroom Spectacular,” driving attendees to explore the 15 participating showrooms on the third and fourth floors. Cindy explained, “This event is like a mini Lightovation, offering bars, lunch, and tours led by IALD members. It provides a chance to see showrooms that attendees might not otherwise visit.”
FOCUS ON EDUCATION AND DESIGN
ArchLIGHT Summit is not just about products and networking; it also emphasizes education. The second day of the summit, designated as Student Day, will host over 200 students from various locations. IALD members will lead tours and sessions, giving students an insider view of the lighting industry.
Additionally, the summit will co-locate with Dallas Design Week, further integrating interior designers and architects into the event. Sessions will address the needs of these professionals, providing a holistic view of design and lighting.
CONCLUSION
ArchLIGHT Summit 2024 is poised to be a turning point for the event, offering unprecedented opportunities for networking, education, and experiencing the latest innovations in lighting. It’s come a long way since the first show in 2020 during COVID, when people were not allowed to travel.
As Cindy aptly put it, “This is the year that the show turns the corner.” With nearly sold-out exhibitor space, participation from industry giants, and a revamped program, the summit is set to illuminate the future of the lighting industry.
For more information, visit ArchLIGHT Summit.
