Interview with custom lighting designer Andrew Dane

The interior looks much better when the new customised light is installed. Furthermore, spending time in a room where the lighting quality has been addressed is far more pleasurable. Light can delight, soothe us to sleep, put us in an unearthly mood, but it can also inspire us to work or be creative. Furthermore, with the right lighting, we can highlight specific areas of the apartment or works of art. These are only some examples. Andrew Dane, bespoke lighting specialist, will speak to us today about the importance of well-designed lighting in the interior, as well as the latest technologies and trends in this segment. We invite you to read this fascinating interview!

How should interior lighting be arranged?

The foundation is that we can select the number of luminaires and the colour of light, which should be appropriate for the function of the room. Let's say that in the office, a cool colour that is stimulating is preferred, whereas in the bedroom, a warm colour is preferred.

It is also worth noting that with the help of lighting, we can emphasise the variety of textures used in the interior, such as structural tiles, beautiful wood grain, or even velour, which changes its appearance dramatically when exposed to light. This is especially important in minimalist interiors, where such minor details stand out.

Bespoke lighting, contrary to popular belief, plays a significant role in interior design. We can expose all of the elements of the arrangement, of which we are particularly proud, with its assistance. Let us remember that without proper lighting, even the most beautifully designed interior will not shine. Art is an excellent example. Even in the best Monet painting, we will not see the full palette of colours unless the work is properly exposed.

What technologies are currently leading the bespoke lighting industry?

Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is LED technology. Such light sources are slightly more expensive than halogens, but they prove to be far more cost effective over time. First and foremost, they last longer, and secondly, they use less energy, resulting in a very short payback period. We save money by purchasing LED�s.

Another critical consideration is that LEDs are environmentally friendly. Why? For starters, they do not produce as much heat as traditional sources. Furthermore, because of the materials used in their construction and their failure rate, halogens are much more unfavourable in terms of durability. Led is an investment in the future, comfort, and the environment.

It is worth noting that projectors are currently in the lead in the field of lighting, and more specifically - accentuating decorative accents. Magnetic ones will dominate the market soon. This technology will also dominate the market for wall lamps. Then simply placing the lighting fixtures in the desired location causes magic to occur - assembly turns out to be child's play. What's more appealing is that we can change the location of the wall lamp depending on the need, for example, to make up in the bathroom, we will attach it to the mirror.

Sealed LED strips are becoming increasingly popular for emphasising the relaxing, regenerating, and relaxing mood in the bathroom. In recent years, this room has evolved from a functional to a private spa setting. Appropriate bespoke lighting can assist us in creating a relaxing environment.

In this context, smart homes are also worth mentioning because they allow us to control many technologies (such as lighting: colour, intensity, and so on) from our smartphone or tablet without even being at home.

Figure 1 Large scale LED Lighting - Sydney CBD offices

What factors should you consider when selecting custom made lighting for your home?

First and foremost, consider what we hope to gain from the ideal arrangement. The issue of selecting the proper light colour is critical. Halogens have a colour temperature of 2700 K, which is a warm, yellow light that takes on an amber hue in the warm tones of the interior. Contrary to popular belief, leading goes far ahead. A cold colour of light can be obtained, as seen in shopping malls, shops, offices, and public buildings in general. Unfortunately, this reinforces the myth that LEDs are cold and unsuitable for creating a cosy environment. It's also worth noting that, like traditional light sources, they can emit a very pleasant, warm light.

Furthermore, you should respond to the question, "What types of lights can we see in our own four corners?" Are we looking for sophisticated Scandinavian-style interior lighting? Or do we have a penchant for highly technical luminaires for loft spaces? Or should we go all out and use lamps with a hint of finesse for an art deco, boho, or eclectic interior?

I've noticed that we frequently match the lamp to the style and colour of the room. After all, we all want our homes to be consistent down to the smallest detail, and lighting is the icing on the cake of the overall arrangement.

The last thing we should consider is the lighting arrangement. One main point of light is insufficient; we must illuminate every zone. Consider the following scenario: we have a kitchen that is also a dining room and a living room. An island separates the two zones. The countertop, the centre of the kitchen, the island, and the lamp above the table and in the relaxation area should all be illuminated - this is the bare minimum!

When it comes to glare control, the greater the cut-off angle, the more comfortable the light is to look at.

Even though the downlights are set up the same way, the light on the wall looks different.

A cut-off angle of 40� is the best compromise between how much light needs to be on the floor horizontally and how much light needs to be on the ceiling.

In places like salesrooms, where products need to be well lit, vertical illuminance is important.

When it comes to downlights with a 30� cut-off angle, the most light comes out at a high side angle.

Because of how narrowly the light is spread, downlights with a 50� cut-off angle make it very easy to see in high rooms.

Figure 2 - 30 Degrees cut off angle

Figure 3- �40 degrees cut off angle

Figure 4 - 50 degrees cut off angle

What is the design / selection process for custom lighting?

We do not dismiss any questions and are open to the most daring ideas when it comes to custom made lights. It is sufficient to have a preliminary vision, which frequently emerges during a meeting over delicious coffee. Most of the time, it is in response to how we want to feel in our own four corners. This is sufficient for us to design lighting from A to Z, that is, to select the type of lighting fixtures, the nature of their lighting, and the proper placement of them in the project.

Even with a general plan of an apartment or house, the lighting designer and client can at least guess what electrical installation equipment will be required or estimate how many running metres of busbars or LED strips will be required to achieve a satisfactory effect.