In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Christine Kühne, the founder of i4Light Lighting Design Studio based in the Netherlands, during her visit to the VLD Community booth at Light Middle East in Dubai. Christine Kühne, an esteemed guest, engaged in a discussion with Ingmar Klaasen, the co-founder of the VLD Community.  The interview delves into Christine's journey as a lighting designer, her inspirations, and the driving forces behind her passion for lighting. Her insights paint a vivid picture of the industry and provide valuable advice for aspiring lighting designers."It's all about quality over quantity. I prefer focusing on fewer projects with a more personal touch rather than juggling numerous clients simultaneously. Honesty and a willingness to learn from mistakes have been key in building strong client relationships. Building a supportive network and being unafraid to ask for help are essential principles I stand by in my practice."  — Christine KhüneFor those who want to dive deeper into this engaging conversation, the video version of the interview is available on our YouTube channel. Additionally, our online community platform offers a wealth of content featuring equally intriguing guests, making it a hub of knowledge and inspiration for lighting enthusiasts.Join us in exploring the world of lighting design through the eyes of remarkable individuals like Christine Kühne, as we continue to bring forth enlightening conversations and experiences to our audience.  Support the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Welcome back to the Virtual Lighting Design Community Podcast! In this episode, we had the honour of sitting down with Eugenia Cheng, the founder and principal of Light Origin Studio, based in Hong Kong. Eugenia is an industry expert with over 17 years of experience practicing lighting design, specialising in small to medium-sized projects across various sectors, including high-end residential, hospitality, and commercial environments.In this conversation, Eugenia shares insights about her remarkable journey from studying interior design to becoming a renowned figure in the lighting design industry. She also sheds light on the studio's focus on community-based projects and the passion for contributing back to society through their work.The interview delves into the topic of lighting's role in creating immersive art and entertainment experiences, emphasising how architectural lighting design differs from other forms of experiences and its place in the sustainability paradigm. Additionally, Eugenia reflects on her experience participating in the judging proceedings at the Light Middle East 2024 event and discusses her involvement in the ThinkLight sessions."How do we maintain interest in digital experiences beyond the moment? Sustaining engagement and minimising waste is crucial. It's concerning to see valuable materials discarded after use, but there's hope in the growing emphasis on sustainability and increased awareness within the community."  — Eugenia ChengThe interview is also available on our YouTube channel, providing a visual element to this insightful conversation. Furthermore, our online community platform hosts a wide array of such thought-provoking conversations with industry experts and innovators like Eugenia Cheng. Dive into the in-depth discussions with leading professionals in the lighting design community on our virtual platform.Support the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Today's episode features our conversation with Carla Wilkins, the founder of Lichtvision, in an interview conducted by Ingmar Klaasen at the Light and Intelligent Building Middle East 2024 in Dubai. This conversation is a part of a series of engaging chats captured by the Virtual Lighting Design Community booth at the event, where guests, visitors, members, and students had the opportunity to share enlightening discussions and insights on the event itself and the lighting design industry as a whole.In this interview, Ingmar Klaasen unpacks Carla's experiences, insights, and inspirations throughout her extensive career in lighting design. They touch on a myriad of topics, from the evolution of lighting technology, sustainability, and the role of artificial intelligence in the industry, to the significance of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning within the lighting design community.A Bit of Background on CarlaCarla Wilkins, a prominent figure in the lighting design industry, embarked on her journey in the field of lighting in 1989, bringing with her a rich background in architecture. Having co-founded Lichtvision in 1997, Carla's influence spans across national and international markets, with offices in Germany, London, and Hong Kong. With a remarkable portfolio of projects, Carla's approach to lighting design emphasises sustainability, innovation, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Her deep-rooted passion for lighting and architecture evokes a sense of wonder in every project she undertakes.Quote of the Day"The shift in lighting technology is akin to the evolution of computers. While the end goal remains the same, the tools and technology are constantly changing, requiring us to rethink our approach to lighting."  — Carla WilkinsSupport the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Today we feature Alexia Gkika, an accomplished Associate Lighting Designer at Buro Happold, with over a decade of experience in the field. In this episode, Alexia shares her insights and expertise on sustainable lighting design, education, and the future of collaborative relationships in the lighting industry, drawing from her diverse background and passion for creating impactful lighting solutions.  In her conversation with VLDC’s cofounder Katia Kolovea, Alexia talks about the crucial aspects of sustainable lighting design, emphasising the significance of education and collaborative efforts in driving positive change in the industry.Quote of the Day"From lighting designer to lighting designer, being a competitor doesn't mean we can't collaborate.  It's vital to justify our presence without letting egos overshadow the collaborative process. As lighting designers, we don't seek to project ourselves but rather to create ambiance and evoke feelings for others to experience." - Alexia Gkika   A Brief Background on AlexiaAlexia is an accomplished art and design professional with a 2-year Master of Science degree in Architectural Lighting Design & Health from KTH University in Sweden. Her educational background also includes a 4-year BA degree in Interior Architecture, Decorative Arts & Design from Athens, Greece. As a result of her project experience in Greece, Sweden and the UK, Alexia has developed a keen interest in the impact of lighting on cultural perception and human psychology. She has significant experience in prestigious luxury hotels worldwide, large scale retail and high end commercial and prime residential projects.Alexia is an Associate member of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).Support the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Maneck Tandon, Partner at ATPL Lighting & Architects, engages in conversation with Amardeep Dugar, co-founder of the VLD Community, at the Light and Intelligent Building Middle East event in Dubai 2024.  Maneck shares his expertise as a lighting designer and architect, emphasising the importance of responsibility in sustainable design. His practical approach focuses on minimising the environmental impact of construction while creating spaces that resonate with longevity and efficiency. Join Maneck and Amardeep as they talk about the evolving landscape of the lighting industry, advocating for broader conversations and inclusive platforms within the design community.  “The key to sustainability is consciousness in all aspects of our lives, personally and professionally. It's about mitigating adverse impacts and allowing for a shift towards a more sustainable future.“  — Maneck TandonSupport the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Cofounder of the Virtual Lighting Design Community (VLDC), Ingmar Klaasen, engages in conversation with Linus Lopez, Partner at Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants, during Light and Intelligent Building 2024 in Dubai. In this interview, Linus Lopez shares his journey into lighting design, transitioning from an engineering background, and delves into the intrinsic fascination with lighting that led him to establish his firm in India. Linus reflects on his experiences as a judge at the event, emphasising the depth of analysis and appreciation for sustainable design solutions among the projects reviewed.Linus also discusses the evolving landscape of the lighting industry, highlighting the importance of understanding and utilising darkness in design, a topic he explores further in his presentation at the fair. His dedication to promoting the profession of lighting design in India and his commitment to education and research in the field underscore his passion for fostering awareness and excellence in lighting design.Join us as Linus Lopez shares his perspectives on responsible design practices, the significance of observation in design sensitivity, and his unwavering motivation to inspire the next generation of lighting professionals. Discover how his vision for thoughtful, impactful design shapes his approach to the industry and drives his mission to elevate the discourse around lighting design.Brief Bio on Linus Lopez:Linus Lopez is a renowned lighting designer and Partner at Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants, based in India. With a background in engineering, Linus discovered his calling in lighting design, embarking on a journey that has seen him lead innovative projects both locally and abroad. His commitment to promoting excellence in lighting design, advocating for responsible design practices, and nurturing the next generation of lighting professionals reflects his dedication to advancing the industry and shaping a brighter, more sustainable future through light.  "When it comes to lighting design, it's critical to appreciate the significance of darkness at the appropriate times. Understanding human experiences and the impact of lighting changes is essential, even if it means seeking gradual progress over immediate results. A unified dialogue within the design community holds the key to promoting responsible practices and a greater sense of shared responsibility."  — Linus LopezSupport the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

In this episode, we'll be diving into a conversation between Katia Kolovea, co-founder of the Virtual Lighting Design Community, and Tapio Rosenius, the CEO and founder of Poet Creator Software and the Lighting Design Collective (LDC). This interview, which took place earlier this year in January at Light & Intelligent Building Middle East 2024 in Dubai, sheds light on Tapio's innovative approach to ambient communication and its impact on lighting design.  A topic that has captured the attention and enthusiasm of many in the industry.  Join us as we explore Tapio's insights and his vision for adopting this approach in lighting design projects and discussed the untapped potential of using ambient communication in the built environment.  “Interactive real-time lighting significantly influences human behaviour, resulting in tangible benefits." — Tapio RoseniusSupport the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

In the next episode of the Virtual Lighting Design Community Podcast, we are excited to host Charles Stone, President at Fisher Marantz Stone, US, as our special guest.  With over four decades of experience and a seasoned member of the lighting design community, Charles shares his insights into the judging process of the recent event LIBME 2024 Dubai and the significance of in-person presentations. His practical experience brings to light the importance of putting people first in design, emphasising responsibility, sustainability, and the ever-evolving technology landscape. Charles also reflects on his involvement in the Virtual Lighting Design Community, highlighting the value of staying connected and learning from the best in the field. Don't miss this exclusive conversation shedding light on the changing landscape of lighting design and the timeless principles that guide industry experts like Charles Stone.Support the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

In this episode of the Virtual Lighting Design Community Podcast, we welcome special guest Maria Dautant, a senior associate at HLB Lighting Design, based in Dubai, UAE.  Maria brings a wealth of global experience from her career journey in New York, Sydney, and Dubai, and she will share her insights on the importance of lighting design in the built environment. Maria is an award-winning architectural lighting designer with over 13 years of experience.   She is also a passionate mentor, actively engaging in educational initiatives and workshops to inspire and support aspiring lighting designers. During her conversation with Katia Kolovea, co-founder of the Virtual Lighting Design Community, Maria will delve into the holistic approach to lighting design, the her professional journey in the field, and the inspiration she draws from her daily work. Support the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting

Welcome back to the Virtual Lighting Design Community Podcast! In this episode, we had the pleasure of catching up with Joseph Brooks, Director of International Markets at K-Lite Industries, as we kicked off the Light Middle East event in Dubai earlier this year. Situated adjacent to the VLDC booth outside the ThinkLight Arena, it was an excellent opportunity to gain insights into K-Lite's innovative lighting solutions and the brand itself. Joseph shared his journey joining K-Lite, navigating cultural adaptation in India, and driving meaningful change. He emphasised the company's focus on fostering good relationships, openness, respect, and understanding, creating a culture reminiscent of a warm and welcoming mom and pop shop. Joseph's background includes extensive experience in international markets and a passion for driving positive, people-centric change within organisations.   “Achieving understanding, trust, and genuine care for people drives meaningful change and fosters a warm, nurturing environment.  I came because I love operations. But stayed because I really fell in love with the people.”— Joseph BrooksSupport the Show.Learn more about our community by visiting www.vld.communityFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.If you enjoyed this episode and want to hear more like this, please signup, subscribe and would appreciate a 5-star review! Acknowledging our Premium Supporters: Aero Hospitality Lighting Creative Lighting Asia ERCO Signify Lighting Academy Filix Lighting