Collaboration by Design

Vinod Pillai, Design Director at Dubai-based Studio Lumen, discusses the process of how lighting designers work collaboratively with interior designers and the ways in which lighting impacts overall project design.

By Ray Molony

Vinod Pillai is one of the leading lighting designers in the Middle East, boasting a portfolio of projects that spans all sectors of the built environment. Having started his career as an architect working on predominantly hospitality projects, his introduction to lighting design was incidental. Lighting design has taken a focal point in his work since, and the mission at Studio Lumen is the creative integration of light and shape to compliment the architecture.

This transition from architect to lighting designer allows Pillai to understand the impact that lighting has on a space, its architectural features and its interior design.

He believes that one of the most important factors for a successful design collaboration between lighting designers and interior designers is an innate synergy and trust.

‘If the two firms are receptive to each other’s ideas, it can become a seamless process to identify how the lighting will enhance the interior design,’ says Pillai. ‘It’s key that interior designers have an appreciation for lighting design, understand the process, and acknowledge that lighting goes hand in hand with the vision that the interior design is creating.

‘The process of any design project will first begin with interior designers, who appoint lighting designers at the schematics stage to request their input on visuals and concepts for lighting.

‘A benefit of collaboration at this early stage is that lighting designers can ensure the right light is produced on visuals to be shown to the client, which presents a coordinated and well-thought-out design. Clients are increasingly starting to understand the importance of lighting and the role it plays in scene setting, mood lighting, and creating atmosphere.

‘If the lighting is not correct, it can make a perfect interior design redundant by causing guests to feel uncomfortable.

‘Creating a memorable experience depends on the five senses coming together seamlessly. For example, the music and lighting in a restaurant must gel seamlessly with the décor and the food. The right balance between colours, architecture, furniture and finishings can set the tone and atmosphere of a space.’

Pillai believes that a space always has a story to tell, and lighting brings this out by highlighting who the main and supporting characters are. The way that objects and areas are lit draws attention to the foreground or the background to guide people’s senses and emotions in a space. ■