Edition 12: What are three questions a designer should ask before lighting a private residence?

Luxury residential lighting design is about more than just illumination—it's about creating a personalized experience for each client. In this edition of Lighting Design Talk, HLB Residential Studio leaders Gregg Mackell , IALD, and Stacie M. Dinwiddy, CLD, IALD, LC, LEED BD C discuss the three questions that form the foundation of their lighting approach for each project, enabling them to create tailored solutions that feel coalescent with the client's lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

1. How would you like the space to feel?

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in a designer's toolbelt when it comes to shaping the tone and mood in a home. By asking their client to describe the ambiance of their ideal experience, lighting designers can pinpoint the specific emotions and inspirations that will inform all design decisions moving forward.

"Lighting design is about more than just illuminating a space—it's about crafting an experience that resonates with how our clients live. Whether they picture intimate evenings sitting around a fireplace watching the snow fall, or bright, public feeling spaces for hosting fundraisers, we tailor every composition to reflect their vision and lifestyle." Gregg Mackell, HLB Principal

A client who desires a more intimate space may need low-level dimming lights that cast a warm glow, with focused accents on key design elements like sculptures or coffee tables. On the other hand, clients who prefer a more vibrant atmosphere may benefit from neutral color temperatures and evenly distributed lighting across the room, creating a more dynamic and energetic vibe.

2. How do you plan to use each space?

The functionality of lighting is as important as its visual impact. If the system isn't intuitive, the client will not experience its full potential! Lighting designers should always ask the client how they intend to use different spaces, which will inform the lighting approach in each room and the integrated controls that tie everything together.

For example, homeowners who entertain often may appreciate having preset lighting scenes that can be activated with the touch of a button. This simplifies managing lights across multiple rooms and settings—perfect for busy hosts who want to seamlessly access preset scenes for dinner parties, fundraisers, or quiet family gatherings. Controls can also provide practical benefits like lighting a path from the garage to the bedroom with a single button, promoting convenience and safety.

3. How would you like your artwork to be illuminated?

For many homeowners, the selection, placement, and illuminating of artwork is a priority during the design process. Lighting designers should ask the client and design team about artwork during the early stages of the project to ensure each piece will be properly showcased and appropriately cared for, whether it's a treasured family photo or a priceless painting.

"When it comes to lighting art, it's not just about its visibility as a feature—we evaluate and ensure each piece is brought to life with lighting that enhances the details, supports the artist's vision, and radiates beauty throughout the space." - Stacie Dinwiddy, HLB Associate Director

If the client doesn't have a concrete plan for artwork, or prefers a more flexible approach, that's fine too! Washing walls, multiple recessed accent lights, picture light rough-ins or recessed track lighting could be solutions that provide long-term flexibility to accommodate a variety of art pieces. By adjusting the aiming and luminous intensity, lighting designers can ensure that each piece is optimally displayed—and will always be one call away should a new piece find its way into the collection.

By understanding how clients want their space to feel and function, designers can craft lighting schemes that elevate luxury homes.

We hope you enjoyed this edition of Lighting Design Talk - if you have questions for our contributors about this topic, leave a comment below!