- What attracted you to the lighting design profession?
As a university student studying Product Design, not only was I too focused on my studies and university experience to focus on my career plan, but I never have been one for big long-term plans. I like to take everything as it comes as you can’t predict what curve balls will come your way. When Covid hit, at the end of my second year, the majority of the students found themselves like me, without a third-year placement. I was fortunate enough to secure a placement job at Architectural FX. Then they invited me back for a permanent role once I finished my degree. Although it wasn’t the industry I expected to end up in or one I had given much thought too, I can say I have enjoyed beginning my career within this community. One that has such a range of skills, knowledge and experience that people are willing to share and discuss. The people I have met through my job, events and opportunities have all been kind and quick to offer their support.
- Could you sum up your design ethos down into a couple of sentences?
I have always liked a challenge, to brainstorm ideas, discuss possible solutions and find the answer to the puzzle. I also have been very creative and have the skill of removing personal bias from my work. You aren’t designing for yourself; you’re designing for a brief and client. There is a reason for all design decisions and most the time, those aren’t personal.
- Can you tell us something about yourself that not many people know?
I won my school’s award for Business Studies student of the year in year 11. I almost did business at university, but I couldn’t ignore my passion for Design.
I had multiple operations on my wrist at 18 years old, resulting in Carpal tunnel Syndrome.
I played Rugby for the Women’s team at my university. Forward, prop or flanker.
- What for you is the most exciting aspect of working in the field of lightingdesign?
How quickly the lighting industry changes to keep up with new designs and technologies. I always see new designs and solutions that are different and unique in their own way. The constant change and development keep things interesting and there is always something new to learn.
- What for you is the most annoying / upsetting thing about working in the lighting industry?
I found out early on that not all projects get brought through. Due to the multiple inputs and changes, you can work on a project for weeks and it can end up being scrapped. I now understand it is part of the job and focus on the silver lining that it’s developed my skills and knowledge whether the project is completed or not. However, it can be disappointing to work hard on something that doesn’t get brought to fruition.
- Is there a place / space / experience that stands out in your mind as inspirational? If so, why?
The Kew Garden light show. I went to the show with my family during Christmas of my second year at university. I wasn’t sure what to expect or thought much about the lights before arriving, but to see all the different displaces, creations and artistic installations throughout opened my eyes to how powerful lighting can be.
- Is there a person who has had a big influence on you as person / designer? If so, why?
I struggled to think of someone at first. I’m early in my career, and as much as I follow designers and accounts, none of them have stuck in my mind enough. I’d have to say it was one of my lecturers at university that became my final year mentor. I struggled a lot during my years at university with balancing the work load and course content. This one lecturer had me crying in his office more times than I could count. During the graduation reception, we had a conversation about a time in first year, I was struggling and crying in his office, wanting to drop out. But he didn’t let me, he told me ‘we’ll be having a conversation at your graduation and we will look back on this.’ He never let me give in, constantly offered support and shared some gossip with me to stop me crying. If he wasn’t there, I probably would have dropped out. And I would have never gotten my job or into this industry without going through that journey.
- Could you list the top 5 reasons why you love your job?
- Constantly learning – Working at a small company results in me being able to learn, develop skills and work closely with a range of people with various skills and experiences.
- Challenges – not only work challenges with keeping to briefs and deadlines, but the challenges I face professionally and personally. I’m constantly learning different skills to advance my skills and adapt them to each project.
- Constant changing tasks – with a small company, I get the chance to work on a range of projects and tasks with different people. It keeps things interesting with not knowing exactly what you’re going to be working on in a couple of weeks.
- Getting to work with people who have a range of knowledge and experience. Being able to brainstorm ideas and have everyone contribute something different.
- Being able to collaborate and network with people in the industry. I have been fortunate enough to attend a range of events and meet many people within the industry. Everyone has been very welcoming, kind and open to offering support.
- #mylightingpassion
I had never considered how lighting could have such an impact on mood, atmosphere, architecture, and health. It’s such a subtle addition that most people don’t notice, as I once didn’t. But to create lighting that can complement the space and structure to enrich it rather than dominate is a work of art. Now I understand the depth of this, I love seeing the designs that can transform and elevate a space further than before.
