Interview with Mara Villegas from United States

As an Interior Designer working in Colombia, I was struck by the profound impact that lighting can have on our perception and emotional response. I began to realize that lighting isn't just a practical element but a fundamental aspect of the human experience.

This insight was solidified for me when I had the opportunity to attend an extraordinary exhibition by Argentinian kinetic artist, Julio Leparc, entitled "Light in Movement". The dynamic interplay of light and movement in his work left an indelible impression on me. From that moment I knew I wanted to be a Lighting Designer.

Today, as a Principal Lighting Designer at Within Light Studio, I enjoy working with light and shadow to create immersive and unforgettable experiences in hospitality design.

At Within Light Studio, my business partner Wesley Burdett and I serve as the principal lighting designers. Where I lead the lighting design studio in Chicago, Wes holds court at our studio in Los Angeles.

Our boutique design consultancy specializes in the art and science of architectural lighting design, with a particular focus on the ever-changing world of hospitality design. From cozy restaurants and bars to luxury hotels and residences, our team of designers bring experience and passion to every project we take on.

Design is the result of the natural progression of the human Lighting Design involves balancing both the subjective world of art and emotions with the measurable world of physics and math. It is the marriage between the creative and the technical, where a designer's artistic vision is communicated through the scientific principles of light and illumination. and shows us what is possible today, when it was still inconceivable yesterday.

I have a deep appreciation for the elegant simplicity of Midcentury Modern design – the way it celebrates the beauty of honest materials and emphasizes the connection between interior and exterior spaces. Mid-century Modern design creates a sense of openness and integration with nature, allowing natural light to flood the space through the use of glass walls and facades. To me, this aesthetic is all about finding balance between form and function, and creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical.

Good design is all about putting people first. At its core, design should always be driven by the needs and desires of the people who will ultimately use and interact with the end product.

At the heart of my design style is an appreciation for the transformational power of lighting. When I approach a new project, I start by thinking about the ways in which light can be used to evoke specific feelings and create a particular atmosphere within a space.

Whether I'm designing lighting for a restaurant, a hotel, or a private residence, my goal is always to use light in a way that enhances the mood of those who inhabit the space, creating an atmosphere that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

At Within Light Studio, we have a meticulous design process to collaborate with project teams and develop lighting designs tailored to each project. We instil a partnership approach with our clients and the design team to really understand their vision and the stories they want to convey through the space. From there, we dive into our concept phase, where we ideate ways to elevate the guest journey and enhance their emotional connection to the space.

Coordination is a crucial part of our design process, and we work closely with project managers and electricians to ensure the seamless integration of our lighting design. But the most exciting part of our process is when we visit the site. We’re very hands on – focusing the lights, checking light levels and fine-tuning every detail along the way to make sure the design aligns with our original concepts. In this way, we ensure that every space not only looks beautiful but also creates a truly magical experience for those who engage with it.

As people, our biological nature reacts to light in a universal way that transcends cultural and geographic differences. I design for human beings and our biological response to light. For example, cooler and brighter lighting temperatures make us more alert, much like how we feel when we wake up in the morning.

In contrast, warmer and softer lighting has a calming effect, similar to the feeling we have after the sun sets at the end of the day. By designing for the needs of people, rather than cultural norms, I believe we can create lighting solutions that are universally effective and impactful.

It is truly an honor to receive this distinction and it means a great deal to our team. This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creativity of everyone involved in our design projects, and it motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of design to create innovative and impactful designs for our clients.

As a Chicago native, I am especially proud of the winning project, HIDE+SEEK, and its recognition in the 2023 MUSE Design Awards. This modern American bar and restaurant, located in the heart of Randolph Row, embodies the comfortable elegance of Chicago. It's an honor for my team and me to have created a lighting concept that so perfectly captures the essence of our city's culture and vibe.

The biggest design challenge was to balance the lighting and color temperature throughout the long and narrow restaurant interior, taking into consideration the ample daylight provided by the large sash windows at the entrance. But with the help of custom millwork LED lighting details and dimmable architectural downlights, we were able to create a seamless experience for guests, regardless of where they were seated in the restaurant.

This recognition not only celebrates the hard work and dedication of my team but also serves as a testament to Within Light Studio’s commitment to excellence in design. We are grateful for the visibility that this award provides to our brand and will continue to push boundaries and strive for innovation in all our future endeavors.

We make people happy.

We create beautiful experiences.

We transform the world.

I am originally from Colombia which is known for its vibrant use of color and diverse materials. Colombian designers are not afraid to take risks and incorporate traditional elements into modern designs.

I believe environmental sustainability and individual wellbeing will play an increasingly important role in lighting design. At Within Light Studio, we're incorporating sustainable elements into our lighting design approach from utilizing energy-efficient LED lighting to designing lighting schemes that promote circadian rhythms. We're committed to creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also support the health of the people who enjoy them.

My advice to any student or MUSE Design Awards submitter would be to be brave, think outside the box, and never settle for mediocrity. Don't follow the trends, but rather challenge them and strive to break paradigms. Embrace your creativity and don't be afraid to take risks.

I highly recommend the resources and events offered by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).

I prefer to keep the mystery alive.

Two artists who have influenced me in my career as a lighting designer are Julio LeParc and James Turrell. LeParc's kinetic lighting installations challenge the traditional concept of lighting and inspire me to think outside the box and explore new possibilities with light. On the other hand, Turrell's immersive color lighting installations tap into the emotional and psychological impact of light on our wellbeing.

Ultimately, success in the design industry comes down to a combination of hard work, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for what you do. You have to be there for your clients throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to project completion.

Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of connecting with people and being kind. Networking is crucial in any industry, and building genuine relationships can open doors and lead to new and unexpected opportunities.