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In the realm of home design, lighting is often an overlooked aspect, even in the most modern builds. Frequently, we encounter new developments with subpar lighting layouts, featuring an excessive number of uniformly dispersed downlights in open-plan spaces and just a few ceiling lights in bedrooms, if you’re lucky. But fret not, even if you’re faced with less-than-ideal lighting arrangements, there are solutions that can transform your living space into a designer haven. Whether you’re renovating your home or residing in a new build, LED lighting can be the key to an aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior environment. In this article, we’ll explore how LED lighting can help busy professionals, enhance the ambiance and functionality of their homes.

Katie Malik Design Studio

A Lighting Plan with LED Elegance:

Statistics show: A well-illuminated room can make it appear more spacious and inviting. According to a survey by the American Lighting Association, 76% of homeowners believe that lighting can significantly impact the mood and ambiance of a room.

Example: Hiring an interior designer to create a lighting plan tailored to your space can yield exceptional results. This approach ensures the perfect illumination and a variety of lighting options that complement your new layout, transforming your space into a haven of style and functionality.

Incorporating LED Lighting in Joinery:

Statistics show: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lighting can be up to 80% more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent lighting.

Example: Concealing LED tape in channels routed within your joinery can instantly elevate the room’s design. Selecting the right LED colour temperature and positioning them to highlight specific elements is crucial. The colour and location of LEDs within the channels depend on what you intend to showcase. For example, horizontal placement is ideal for adjustable shelving, with LEDs positioned about 20 mm from the front.

Katie Malik Design Studio
Katie Malik Design Studio

Illuminating Your Kitchen with LED Elegance:

Statistics show: LED lighting inside kitchen cabinets can improve energy efficiency. A report by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency states that LED lighting consumes significantly less energy, making it a greener choice.

Example: Enhancing your kitchen’s lighting layout with LED options is not only energy-efficient but also visually appealing. Consider LED lighting inside your cabinets for a seamless and chic look. To add a touch of luxury to your kitchen, incorporate LEDs into skirting boards surrounding kitchen islands, provided you have one.

Katie Malik Design Studio

Transforming Art with LED Picture Lights:

Statistics show: Adequate lighting can accentuate the beauty of your artwork. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that proper lighting significantly enhances the perceived aesthetic value of art pieces.

Example: Picture lights, whether integrated into joinery or mounted above artworks, can instantly elevate the room’s atmosphere. When planning your picture lighting, measure your artwork meticulously, considering the length of the picture light in relation to the art frame. A good rule of thumb is to choose a picture light that’s about half the width of the picture for portrait paintings and between a third and a half for landscape pieces. Explore high-quality picture lights from renowned brands like Chelsom and Visual Comfort.

Katie Malik Design Studio
Katie Malik Design Studio

A Wardrobe Illuminated with LED Style:

Statistics show: Well-lit wardrobes make selecting outfits easier and more enjoyable. According to a survey by Houzz, 68% of homeowners prefer a walk-in closet with integrated lighting.

Example: Adding concealed LED lights inside your wardrobe, positioned vertically, not only illuminates your clothing and accessories but also exudes a classy and design-led aesthetic. For those looking to retrofit lighting, battery-operated LED options can be placed on the sides of the wardrobe carcass for practicality.

Katie Malik Design Studio

Your Trusted LED Supplier:

Example: Phos, one of our favourite LED suppliers, offers a wide array of tapes, channels, and drivers, making them the perfect choice for your renovation project. With their selection of LED solutions, you can transform your home into a stylish and well-lit space, all while reducing energy consumption.

Incorporating LED lighting into your home design is not only an aesthetically pleasing choice but also a smart and energy-efficient one. So, whether you’re renovating or living in a new build, these LED lighting solutions can enhance your space’s style, ambiance, and functionality. Don’t underestimate the transformative power of well-planned lighting. It’s the key to creating a designer look that caters to the needs and tastes of busy professionals like you.

About Katie Malik Design Studio

Established in 2014, we are a multi award-winning Cambridge based interior design studio. We work globally, specialising in luxurious private residential interiors. We create exceptional designs, taking a holistic approach to the way spaces will be used and enjoyed. Through detailed visual package, attention to the smallest details paired with the professionalism & toughness to handle large projects from start to finish, we turn an otherwise overwhelming process into an exciting and deeply satisfying experience.

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The Ambassador Wall Light is an exclusive design collaboration between the artisans at Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard and Focus SB’s in-house technical engineers and finishing experts, offering a striking addition to the British premium electrical manufacturer’s extensive suite of hospitality products.

Complemented by three metal finish options comprising Jordan bronze, satin and antique brass this industry-first collaboration from Focus SB in partnership with Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard offers luxury interior designers unique handcrafted bedside lighting pieces in attractive clear, smoked and reeded glass shade options.

Focus SB - Ambassador Wall Light Reeded Black and Gold
Focus SB - Ambassador Wall Light Smoked Glass

The glass shade details of each Ambassador Wall Light are cut by hand using traditional techniques (a ruler and glass knife) and bonded by hand at Gwyn’s Chesterfield studio. Edges are arrised (smoothed) by hand. The long thin rectangular glass shades are complemented by an attractive Tubular Gold Flex LED filament dimmable lamp.

Established by founder and Director Jeff Fuller in 2013 The Light Yard was rebranded in 2020 to underscore the company’s artisanal offering with Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard producing light fittings for numerous commercial and residential projects in the UK, Europe and North America. Introduced to Raymond Blanc OBE at the 2019 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard was invited to provide the lighting design including bespoke interior and exterior pieces for his botanical-themed Chelsea pop up restaurant Jardin Blanc in 2021.

Focus SB - Ambassador Wall Light Clear Glass
Focus SB - Ambassador Wall Light Reeded Glass

Offering superior solutions for exceptional project design and finish continuity detail, the Ambassador Wall Light sees Focus SB leading its industry in the design and manufacture of striking luxury hospitality products.

Interior designers who visited Decorex stand A74 would have been able to view the beautifully handcrafted Ambassador Wall Light from this exquisite new lighting collection featuring a smoked shade, lamp with spiral LED filament by Gwyn Carless at The Light Yard, paired with a quality metal plate finished in-house in Jordan bronze by Focus SB; and the company’s debut of its exceptional design-first flat screwless range with distinctive square corners in solid brass, RENAISSANCE.

View information and an Ambassador Wall Light inspiration image gallery in the Design Collaborations section at Focus SB’s website.

About Focus SB Ltd

Established for over 40 years in East Sussex, Focus SB’s award winning in-house manufacturing and metal finishing expertise presents designers with a comprehensive collection of switches, sockets and components complemented by bespoke project services. Quality faceplate styles made from the finest solid brass and durable stainless steel offer striking solutions for high-end hospitality, prime residential, heritage and commercial interiors. Working closely with design consultants, control system companies and fire and security specialists, Focus SB’s unrivalled ability to match metal finishes across its collection, coupled with custom finish options, sees the company’s products specified for world class projects internationally.

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LiGHT – the only trade show in the UK dedicated to lighting specification – will build on the success of its first year in 2022 by enhancing its offering to attract the wider design community.

A common misconception is that trade shows dedicated to lighting specification are just for lighting designers. This, put simply, just isn’t the case…

Lighting is one of the first things that should be considered when working on a project – whether you’re a client, developer, architect, interior designer, or lighting designer. The importance of working with the right tools and having the right knowledge to produce the best light – and in turn the best environment for the end user – is undeniable. So many times, lighting is an afterthought on a project, when it should be at the forefront of everybody’s minds.

LiGHT Expo

So, if you’re NOT a lighting designer why should you attend LiGHT 23?

Well, ask yourself these questions…

1. Do you work on commercial and / or high-end residential projects?
2. Do the projects you work on feature lighting in some capacity?
3. Would you like to understand more about the effects of good and bad lighting on design schemes and the end user?
4. Would you like to broaden your knowledge on the built environment?
5. Would you like to make new connections within the industry?

If you answered YES to even just one of these questions, then LiGHT 23 is the event for you and with FREE visitor registration, what’s to lose?

LiGHT Expo

LiGHT 23 will feature 100s of high-end lighting brands all under one roof – perfect for residential and commercial projects large and small. From sourcing IP-rated products that can bring a stunning bathroom or garden design scheme to life; to statement decorative pieces for a restaurant or bar project; or perhaps you’re working on a big hotel project and need a company that can fulfil a large order… Maybe you need something more bespoke? With lighting brands from all over the world on show, we guarantee, there will be a product at LiGHT 23 that fits the brief.

Not only that, LiGHT 23 will once again host the highly regarded talks programme [d]arc thoughts, featuring experts from across the world of design, editors from speciality design magazines including arc, darc, ICON, and OnOffice, while covering topics that affect all areas of the industry, such as sustainability & circular design; designing for a global client; designing for healthy office spaces; and designing for small & large spaces, to name just a few… Watch this space for a full talks programme announcement coming very soon!

LiGHT Expo

The show’s association partners will also support the talks programme with speakers from the likes of Society of British & International Interior Design (SBID); NLA; Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP); Society of Light and Lighting (SLL); and the International Assocation of Lighting Design (IALD).

Also new for this year is darc space, a dedicated area for decorative lighting brands to shine. darc space will provide lighting and interior designers and specifiers looking for their next stunning light feature a one-stop-shop of decorative lighting brands to choose from.

About LiGHT 23

The LiGHT exhibition is held over two days at the Business Design Centre. The show highlights include the [d]arc thoughts talks programme, with a stream of guests keen to learn more about the hot topics from interior design, architecture and lighting. The event features a bespoke decorative lighting hub showcasing a range of brands, as well as an exclusive designers lounge.
LiGHT 23, Business Design Centre, 21 – 22 November 2023

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Sans Souci, leading designer and producer of glass and lighting installations, has unveiled its latest portfolio with an ambitious new direction for the brand. The new design concept is focused on finding the beauty and innovation between contrasting perspectives, which was the inspiration behind an impressive 15 new collections that will be launched as part of the 2023 Milan Design Week.

The new collections are the culmination an important creative journey for Sans Souci, which has experienced significant growth globally in recent years. Some of the most exciting new designs are collaborations with respected designers Karim Rashid and William Sawaya.

Glass making

William Sawaya’s BRANCHY collection is sleek and artistic, inspired by the natural world. Long crystal tubes in sandblasted, clear and metallic finishes are fitted together with metal bindings. Each component has a LED light source running through it, allowing the installation to produce a different ambience depending on how you choose to light your interior.

BRANCHY Long Argent
BRANCHY Short Rose

Karim Rashid’s exquisite CHIN CHIN collection plays with your perceptions. Flawless installations are formed of crystal components shaped into golden drinks glasses suspended from glass rings, finished with gradient nanocoating. The effect is a perfect paradox – the glasses look full, but they are empty, they hang upside down, but nothing spills. This design is both opulent and contemporary, creating a dramatic focal point for your interior.

Sans Souci nanocoating technology

Each of the new collections builds on Sans Souci’s central design concept – finding harmony in contrasting ideas and aesthetics. This is the brand’s response to the most pressing questions the interior design industry is facing. It is focused on embracing the contrasts and equilibrium between different perspectives. The space between luxury and responsibility to the planet, between craftsmanship and sophisticated technologies, between classical design and contemporary ideas.

Glass details

Martin Chab, Founder and CEO of Sans Souci commented: “Our new direction and collections are testament to our commitment to design and innovation. They show that we are not afraid to combine diverse elements and ideas to create truly captivating pieces. We’re delighted to launch our 15 collections in Milan at one of the biggest design celebrations in the calendar – Fuorisalone and Euroluce. It will be exciting to get feedback from our partners and the wider industry, but this is just the beginning as we continue to grow our brand and portfolio.”

HARK Chandelier
HARK Installation

Sans Souci’s exhibition ‘The Harmony of Contrast’ will be showing this April at 2023 Design Week in Milan. One of the highlights will be HARK, an immersive exhibit showcasing Sans Souci’s bold designs and cutting-edge lighting technologies. The multimedia piece features exquisite crystal cuboids that respond to the audio around them, emitting different ambience depending on the tone of sound. A design experience for all your senses as it shows the contrasts between cool and warm, darkness and light, silence and sound.

BRANCHY Long

The exhibition ‘The Harmony of Contrast’ is part of Fuorisalone and will be displayed at gallery Mimmo Scognamiglio Artecontemporanea, Via Goito 7, Milan, from 17 to 23 April. Sans Souci’s new portfolio of collections will be showing at Euroluce at Fiera Rho, Milan, P11.250, from 18 to 23 April. Find out more about Sans Souci’s collections and projects at www.sanssoucilighting.com

About Sans Souci

Sans Souci is a leading designer and producer of quality interior and architectural installations. Design and innovation are at the heart of its vision, offering clients a range of studio collections as well as a bespoke design service to create the perfect piece for each interior. Sans Souci manages the entire creative and production process from its headquarters in Bohemia, the world-famous glassmaking region, ensuring quality and sustainability at each step. Its unique art and lighting designs are installed in luxury interiors around the world, from iconic hotels such as Claridges and Burj Al Arab to private residences and designer retail spaces.

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Homeplay is proud to be one of only a handful of integrators in the UK to have been selected, trained and authorised to install Lutron’s brand-new premium Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System.

Designed with groundbreaking technology and whisper-quiet performance, they are installed without fascia, pocket, recess or wires, making them the perfect choice for a minimalist aesthetic.

Redefine the beauty of daylight control

Available as a wired or wire-free, battery-operated system these shades look beautiful from every angle, Palladiom shades are created for the most sophisticated homes.

The aluminum brackets are meticulously hand-finished and available in a variety of finishes that blend seamlessly into any architectural style.

Shading that elevates the beauty of your home

Enhance your space with a shading solution that showcases what’s beyond the window pane. Occupying no more than 3 1/4″ of vertical space, a single Palladiom shade can cover a 12 x 12 foot window – highlighting expansive views while delivering daylight control at scale.

Ultra-efficient battery management technology

The Palladiom Wire-Free Shading System runs on Active Energy Optimization, a battery management architecture designed to optimize the efficiency of traditional alkaline batteries to extend battery lifetime to an industry-leading three to five years with fewer batteries.

Palladiom bottom rail

To accentuate the minimalist aesthetic of the Palladiom Shading System, Lutron has created the inventive Palladiom Bottom Rail. The design uses a groundbreaking method of clamping onto the fabric – regardless of the fabric thickness – to ensure that the hembar will always sit perfectly flat and perpendicular to the fabric plane. The subtle curve along the hembar face matches the roll diameter at the top of the shade. When the shade is fully open, the hembar disappears into the negative space behind the shade itself.

About Homeplay

Discover sound you can feel, home cinema that transports you to another world and lighting that brings living spaces to life. We are Homeplay. Experts in beautiful home technology. Simple stylish systems, seamlessly integrated into the fabric of your home.

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At Helen Green Design we believe that beautiful lighting is an integral part of every well curated interior. Every room lends itself to a different lighting style, shape and design and therefore choosing the perfect fixture can be a daunting task.

To achieve a harmonious and considered scheme, it is important to keep lighting throughout the property consistent and connected to each other. This can be achieved by either by specifying similar finishes (aged brass, blown glass, crystal) or a particular style (modern, art deco, traditional). It is possible to mix and match for a more eclectic look, however it is challenging to ensure there is no disconnect between the spaces.

We like to source lighting from a range of suppliers who offer a variety of fixtures suitable for different areas. Here are our simple tips on how to select the perfect light for every room.

Entrance Hall/Stairwell

The entrance hall is an opportunity to make an impact in your home. The lighting in an entrance hall is likely to be one of the first things seen when entering the house so it is important to ensure it encapsulates the identity of the property.

It is an opportunity to make the most of the architectural features and utilise high ceilings or stairwells. An oversized, statement light can span across several floors or a centrepiece light can create an elegant, welcoming lobby area above the entrance table.

Living Room

As the centre of every home, it is crucial that the light fitting chosen for this space does not compete with the rest of the furniture in the room and complements and relates to the design scheme. It doesn’t mean it cannot be striking. The key is to consider the proportions and materials as well as balance textures, colours and patterns used in the room.

It is important to carefully consider the position of the light. Most commonly it is placed in the centre of the room, above the main seating area or by the fireplace. It should not obstruct the view if located near a large window and not to hang too low to allow people to walk underneath it.

Dining Room/Kitchen

The main function purpose is to provide light above the dining table or island. It is good practice to follow the shape of the furniture item directly below the light fixture. For example, a round light for square or round tables and oval or oblong for rectangular or elliptical tables.

An interesting choice of lighting is using clusters of smaller pendants either in regular rows or staggered for dramatic effect.

When the dining area is connected to the kitchen, it is effective to use lights from the same family for a cohesive design.

Bedroom

Being sanctuaries of peace and rest, bedrooms are one of the most important rooms. As strong lighting is not necessarily required, light fittings perform a decorative role and can determine the feeling of ambience in the space.

Simple pendant lights above bedside tables are not only very functional as they leave the surface of the table clean but also are an excellent way to accentuate the main elevation of the room.

Alternatively, a small chandelier can bring elegance and interest to the bedroom scheme making it feel more like a hotel suite.

Bathroom

The clean lines and usually very light tones of natural stone finishes, sanitaryware and mirrors in a bathroom create a fantastic background and opportunity to showcase more sculptural lighting pieces.

From large, elaborate chandeliers above the bath to clusters of interesting pendants, they can transform a simple bathroom into a luxury spa.

It is also important to ensure all lights chose for bathrooms have suitable IP rating.

About Helen Green Design

Helen Green Design is proud to be one of Britain’s most respected luxury interior design practices. Over the past 19 years, the team has developed an invaluable reputation for creating elegant, sophisticated, and timeless interiors for our international private clients. The portfolio includes prestigious developments, luxury penthouses, townhouses, boutique hotels and country estates, with recognition for our work in Super – Prime London. Founded by the late Helen Green in 2002, the studio creates luxurious, yet liveable, residences and strives to deliver exceptionally high, personalised levels of service – values which lie at the very heart of our business.

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Great lighting design is one of the most important elements in any interior. In addition to enhancing functionality, illumination can also transform mood, ambiance and the perception of space. For optimum results, a project’s lighting plan should be implemented right at the beginning of the creative process. The best lighting designs maximise the amount of natural daylight available, then enhance this with complementary forms of artificial light. Task, ambient, mood, feature and architectural lighting all have an important role to play. The right type can enrich the colour, character and tone of any room. It can also accentuate physical features such as heights and recesses.

The lighting design for this hidden bar is instrumental in creating the desired ‘ta-da’ moment.
We used warm tone LED strip lighting under the shelves, and an antique mirror to reflect the light.

Key lighting design considerations

“There are three key facets to consider when planning lighting within a room design,” explains our director Mark Taylor. “The size of the room; the nature of the light and how it hits the room; and the existing shapes and ceiling heights.” The client’s personal preferences and their budget must also be taken into consideration. “Lighting can form a very expensive part of any room, sometimes more than the cost of furnishings and joinery,” Mark confirms. “So, it’s vital to establish a realistic budget from the outset.”

Rooms size and shape are next on Mark’s lighting design checklist. “We would assess the shape of the space, where the darker areas are, and how light the room needs to be,” he explains. “We would also consider where we need to avoid glare or reflection, and the colour palette and materials. Lighting can fundamentally change hues and tones.” Mark continues: “We would also take into account energy conservation, and how the lighting will be controlled. Solutions might include remote control smart home lighting systems such as Lutron. More traditional options – such as arc lamps and Anglepoise® lighting – can be both attractive and cost-effective if they are placed correctly and suit the interior’s aesthetic.”

High ceilings were a particular challenge for this multi-functional Marlow kitchen project. Mark and his team incorporated a strip light on the walls, bouncing light off the ceilings to avoid any dark spots. To maintain task lighting, they added LED strips to the wall shelving, to illuminate all the work surfaces.

Feature lighting above the doors adds a dome light effect to the kitchen cabinetry. The roof lantern creates natural light during the day, as do the large garden-facing windows (and double kitchen doors) looking onto the garden.

The different types of lighting

A room’s primary function usually dictates the type of task lighting required. It can be hidden or directed specifically at certain areas that need to be illuminated. Mark notes: “This type of functional task lighting can still deliver visual design impact via an exposed fitting, either from a ceiling or a wall.”

Feature lighting is about much more than mere functionality. It’s about the shape and style of the fitting, as well as the illumination it provides. It’s an ideal way to make a statement and enhance a specific element of your decor – whether the light in question is off or on.

Then there’s architectural lighting. “There are certain situations where natural light simply is not available,” Mark explains. “To offset this, we could install a large, illuminated panel simulating daylight coming in from a skylight. Or we might use an LED hidden strip to “bounce” light off a ceiling, especially if the ceiling is very tall and spotlights would create dark spaces. That’s what we did in this drawing room, as the client didn’t want too many spotlights. So, we added an LED strip above the tongue and groove panelling.”

For this larder cupboard, we chose LED strip lighting inside an aluminium extrusion, complete with a light diffuser to stop any spotting. This combination not only highlights the beautiful design, but on a practical level allows items to be easily found.

The art of layering

Bespoke, layered lighting design schemes use multiple light sources to deliver a combination of functional, ambient and accent lighting. “Depending on a room’s function, we usually look at up lighting, mid-level lighting, and ceiling or task lighting,” Mark explains. “Everything depends on the height of the ceiling, the amount of natural light available, and how the room will be used.”

This Riverside Arts & Crafts Home drawing room lighting design enhances the cleanliness and subtlety of the space, but also creates warmth and intimacy in a room that is relatively colour neutral.

He continues: “For instance, to light an area with two specific functions – such as a kitchen and TV/entertaining area – you need to adapt the functionality of the lighting for each use, and for different times of the day. In many cases, we use lighting that bridges both areas. For example, we might install wall lights that can be turned on to enhance mood, when task lighting isn’t required.”

This Shaker-style kitchen project incorporated two levels of flooring – and two levels of ceiling. It also featured three distinct areas: the snug, dining space and cooking area. Our lighting design used a combination of floor lights, mid-level lighting, task lighting, LED linear lighting and a window wall to illuminate and harmonise the different elements.

Five different levels of lighting transformed this dark, poorly lit space into a bright, inviting open-plan area.

Why bespoke works best

While there is no ‘one size fits all’ with great lighting design, there are some general guidelines that apply, depending on a room’s primary function(s). Obviously, kitchens require practical task lighting so that meals can be prepared safely and easily. Conversely, the rule of thumb with most cloakrooms is to celebrate their relative darkness. Soft lighting – and not too much of it – can minimise the sanitaryware, mitigate small spaces, and create a feeling of calm. For example, this windowless cloakroom is dark, intimate and tranquil. Our lighting design created a sense of movement and fantasy without over-illuminating the space.

Multi-purpose spaces, such as open-plan areas, family rooms and even drawing rooms, are likely to require a lighting design that can accommodate different occasions at different times of the day. In fact, combinations of low level and lamp lighting usually work best.

This small but statement cloakroom combines hand-painted walls,
an eye-catching fish motif, and two wall lights either side of the mirror, which create a subtle glow.

Lighting design in bathrooms & bedrooms

“As bathrooms have become more luxurious, clients want to create a mood for them, rather than just ‘wash and go’,” Mark reveals. “Sensor lighting is a really great way to make the bathroom an inviting space from the moment you walk in. Soft warm lighting can be used to replicate candlelight. LED strip lighting is also an effective way to highlight a particular design feature.”

Bedroom lighting design also needs to be versatile. Most clients require lamps/task lights for reading in bed and choosing clothes, although the room in general should be calm and sleep-inducing. Mark observes: “A flexible lighting system that gives clear visibility where you want it – but is very forgiving where you don’t – is the key.”

Getting lighting design right

“Not all clients understand the value of lighting design – but it really can make or break a space,” Mark observes. “There’s both a science and an art to great lighting design. And it represents some of the best money spent in terms of creating or renovating loveable living spaces.”

About Mark Taylor Design

Mark Taylor Design is a British manufacturer of superlative bespoke furniture, cabinetry and specialist joinery, working in Central London and the Home Counties.

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Canadian luxury handmade furniture and lighting brand Gabriel Scott has launched its latest lighting collection, Welles Reimagined, in collaboration with six global designers and architects to celebrate Gabriel Scott’s tenth anniversary in 2022.

The established designers have reinterpreted the studio’s most iconic fixture, the Welles Chandelier. The six fixtures, first showcased at Milan Design Week 2022, have now been formalised into six capsule collections which include chandeliers, sconces and pendant lighting.

Kelly Hoppen for Gabriel Scott

Scott Richler, Gabriel Scott’s Founder and CEO, explains: “The Gabriel Scott brand launched on a manifesto to furnish the architectural community with exactly what they needed, and we’re still doing this through material, size and form ten years later. Inspired by jewellery, the Welles Chandelier is a true representation of our design philosophy – to design and make modular products to custom specifications. The Welles Reimagined capsule collections celebrates our brand ethos and the collaborations we undertook with each designer perfectly demonstrate how we like to work together with our design and architecture clients to achieve something really special and tailored to their requirements.”

Alessandro Munge for Gabriel Scott

David Rockwell

The David Rockwell capsule collection celebrates the Welles Chandelier’s classic geometric form, while creating a contemporary light fixture inspired by clusters found in nature, such as crystals, chemical compounds, and clouds. Ultimately, Rockwell drew from botanic forms to create an organic assemblage. The hollowed glass polygons act as metallic light points that come together at varying heights and dimensions to form a floating light cluster. The feature chandelier is defined by its luxe volume and organic nature.

“The collaboration allowed us to create something very special that combines Gabriel Scott’s modular approach to lighting and expert craftsmanship with our focus on storytelling and materiality. We experimented with volume, color, texture, and scale to create organic assemblages of light that have a dramatic impact on the atmosphere and our perception of space.” – David Rockwell.

David Rockwell for Gabriel Scott
David Rockwell for Gabriel Scott

Kelly Hoppen

Crafted from white clay and inspired by a collection of ceramics she is currently designing, the Kelly Hoppen capsule collection comprises a single flush-mount sconce suitable for both wall and ceiling installation, a pendant light, a single sconce on a banded arm and the Welles Long Chandelier in three sizes. The overall form has been scaled down from its original size to create an elegantly delicate aesthetic.

“When I was asked to do it, obviously it’s a very iconic piece already, but instantly I knew I wanted it to be a chalk white, clay, very organic piece, because that would make it incredibly different from anything Gabriel Scott had done before.” – Kelly Hoppen, CBE.

Kelly Hoppen for Gabriel Scott
Kelly Hoppen for Gabriel Scott

Alessandro Munge

Alessandro’s capsule collection has a beautiful narrative infused with dynamic and bold fashion references inspired by rhythmic dance. It includes the 12-module central chandelier as seen in Milan, a scaled down 8-module chandelier, a larger 18-module chandelier and an arm sconce. While its volume is radically different, the modular qualities are still able to extend for extra tall ceilings and multiply for larger spaces. This flexibility makes it a truly versatile and playful product that invites designers to create bespoke configurations.

“One of the key features that inspired us was how architectural the Welles is, yet extremely detailed and jewellery-like – even the slightest of components like the bracket is beautifully designed. It felt like a sculptural piece of art. So, we drew inspiration from couture fashion, from dance, and when we immersed ourselves in this world, we thought about deconstructing the original piece and rebuilding it in a completely different way.” – Alessandro Munge.

Alessandro Munge for Gabriel Scott
Alessandro Munge for Gabriel Scott

Michelle Gerson

Michelle turned to nature to add a floral element that represents growth and bloom, alluding to a rebirth of a classic Gabriel Scott design. Uplifting and joyful, Michelle Gerson’s capsule collection includes a vertical sconce and small, medium and large versions of the chandelier first seen in Milan.

“The vision is nature. We tried to take a more geometric, modular, masculine type fixture and break it up and create what we thought would be blossoms, branches and leaves. We mixed up the materiality a little by using mesh to create a lightness, we wanted it to feel spacey, alive and happy.” – Michelle Gerson.

Michelle Gerson for Gabriel Scott
Michelle Gerson for Gabriel Scott

Sybille de Margerie

As a contrast to the sharp metal and glass silhouette of the original Welles, Sybille’s interpretation reveals the feminine side of her signature design style. Couture-inspired, elegant and smooth, the capsule collection shows a gradient composition from emptiness to full, with a variation of hollow and plain shapes. It comprises a sconce, cluster sconce, the standard chandelier as seen in Milan, and a smaller version. All fixtures include padded vegan leather to create a subtle 3D effect and rounded corners to add softness.

“We love leather because we find it’s a very elegant finish and combined with a soft bronze, this is our vision of luxury which is very understated.” – Sybille de Margerie.

Sybille de Margerie for Gabriel Scott
Sybille de Margerie for Gabriel Scott

Guan Lee

Guan’s design is a striking floor installation, illuminated by light bulbs and made from POLiROCK, a new material developed by Material Architecture Lab. The fired clay has unique characteristics, somewhere between ceramic and rock. It appears natural but is made by recycling manufacturing waste. Due to the nature of this design, it can be customised from the original form that was shown in Milan. For commissions, Guan and the Gabriel Scott’s design team will work with the client to deliver something bespoke.

“The first thing I thought was that it would be nice to have a contrasting material, so instead of something transparent something solid that allows light to go through in a very particular way.” – Guan Lee.

Guan Lee for Gabriel Scott
Guan Lee for Gabriel Scott

Cover image: Sybille de Margerie for Gabriel Scott

About Gabriel Scott

Gabriel Scott is a design house and production studio creating contemporary collections of fine furniture and lighting. Led by founder and CEO Scott Richler, all Gabriel Scott pieces are proudly handmade in a Montreal-based studio where an in-house team of industrial designers, engineers and manufacturers work together to create and oversee each piece from inception to production. Established to blend Scott’s design experience developed over many years working in architecture, fashion and jewelry design, Gabriel Scott’s furniture and lighting collections are designed in line with the studio’s three principles: timeless, customizable and versatile aesthetic.

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Sans Souci, Czech designer and creator of glass lighting installations, reveals a series of custom-made installations for Claridge’s hotel in London. 264 pendants were specially designed and produced to illuminate the world-famous art deco interiors.

The contemporary lighting refit was the vision of leading lighting designers L’Observatoire International with each installation designed by French architect Sylvain Dubuisson, well known for mixing classical style with cutting-edge lighting technologies. Each piece is made from opaque, sandblasted glass crafted into geometric patterns, which ensures unique light dispersion. This is further enhanced by fitting two-tone LED strips and one main light source to create a very special and sophisticated ambience.

“When I designed these pieces for Claridge’s, I wanted them to be both decorative and intriguing to fit with the elegance of the art deco interior design. This was achieved by combining two contrasting patterns – rectangular and circular – similar to Chesterfield sofas. The large, complicated designs were then produced in white glass, which embodies simple sophistication. Manufacturing large installations such as these is complicated but I am thrilled with the results, which stay true to my original designs.” said Sylvain Dubuisson, architect and designer.

“We were delighted to have the opportunity to work with L’Observatoire International and Sylvain Dubuisson, world leaders in lighting design. Dubuisson is always looking to work with new technologies and materials, which is something we are passionate about at Sans Souci. The development process took lots of time and resources to create these beautiful pendants in a colour that is entirely unique to this project. The final installations are elegant and one of a kind, just like Claridge’s.” added Dominik Cienciala, Managing Director for Sans Souci UK.

Hervé Descottes, renowned lighting designer and Co-founder of L’Observatoire International, explains the vision behind Claridge’s new lighting: “Claridges is an iconic building, with such a rich history. When I was asked to re-design the lighting for the guest circulation at the hotel, I wanted to create a series of beautiful iconic moments for guests, to perfectly connect the special experience of dining at the ground floor or first visiting, to the luxury of staying there and the rooms.”

“First, we brought an ambient layer of cove lights that accentuated the height and ornate detailing in the corridors, and introduced a system of tunable white fixtures that warm gradually from day to night. Secondly, we needed to design a light fixture that was iconic and completely unique; that fit perfectly in the design heritage of Claridges, but felt timeless. With longtime collaborator Sylvain Dubuisson, we designed a fixture that is both beautiful and functional- with many layers of light that allowed it to provide cooler, diffuse light in the day then transition to warm, more directional light at night. The realization of the design was made possible with the expertise of Sans Souci and their experience with cast glass- whose involvement throughout the process ensured that we were able to devise specific fabrication solutions for these very beautiful pendants, that transformed these spaces and became a beautiful addition to the hotel.”

A total of 264 pendants and 198 wall lights were made to illuminate Claridge’s interiors. This adds to the list of Sans Souci projects London, which includes the Southbank Spa, Connaught Patisserie, The Langham Hotel, 1 Blackfriars Tower Crown Plaza hotel, Royal Lancaster hotel, and Fortnum & Mason – the Parlour & the Fountain Restaurant.

About Sans Souci

Sans Souci is a Czech designer and producer of glass lighting and architectural installations. Expert glass-makers, Sans Souci combines high-quality heritage craftsmanship with innovation, using the cutting-edge nano-technologies to realise its unique designs. With an emphasis on precision and detail, the brand specialises in creating bespoke luxury lighting pieces and decorative glass features that highlight original architectural features. Production takes place in North Bohemia, Czech Republic, a world-renowned glass-making region.

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Canadian luxury handmade furniture and lighting brand Gabriel Scott has launched the LUNA KALEIDO collection, the second chapter in the brand’s best-selling Luna lighting range.

The customisable modular series includes two stackable glass lighting fixtures: a horizontal chandelier and a vertical pendant. The mouth-blown glass beads can be ‘strung’ together in any order to create a bespoke glowing piece of jewellery for residential, hospitality and commercial projects.

The lights are available in seven new shapes, all named after constellations (Dorado, Lyra, Aras, Cygnus, Orion and Carina). The collection is inspired by a kaleidoscope, which comes from the Greek words for kalos (beautiful), eidos (form), and skopeo (to look at). Like a kaleidoscope, the glass shapes have been designed to offer infinite interpretations of tone, shape and refracted light. When stacked, the lights become a glass mosaic with varying tones and patterns. Each colour and texture distorts light in a different way. When looking through the glass, the distortion creates magical optical illusions. Soft iridescent colours, including pinks, blues and greens, are fused with clear glass to create a sophisticated colour spectrum. The lights are available with six different surface textures including Smooth, Gridded, Regadines, Bubbles, Lines and Dots.

Founder and Creative Director Scott Richler comments, “We are delighted to be extending our existing LUNA series, which was launched in 2019 and is already popular with architects and interior designers alike. We work very closely with our makers at our Montreal production studio to ensure that each mouth-blown pendant and chandelier is made to the highest standards. Each piece will add a sense of enchantment to any interior design scheme.”

The LUNA series is inspired by a lunar halo and is a glamourous reference to the moon’s diffused light and soft glow. The LUNA series is currently available in satin brass, satin nickel, satin copper, satin bronze and black steel. Existing glass options include blue, California pink, yellow, smoked amethyst, smoked bronze and smoked grey.

The KALEIDO collection is available to purchase online and at Gabriel Scott’s New York and London showrooms.

About Gabriel Scott

Gabriel Scott was founded in Montreal, Canada, in 2012. Scott Richler was working as an architect and was often tasked with specifying high-end custom furniture for clients. He realised there was a market for bespoke, contemporary and customisable furniture and lighting fixtures crafted using a holistic approach that would be specifically aimed at designers and architects who need control over every detail of a building’s design.

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