Process

Residential

Exceptional residential lighting design is what turns the house into a home; it amplifies the architecture, interior design, and artwork, and mirrors the client’s personality and daily life.

01 – Schematic Design

Define the vision

We establish the overall lighting approach - how the space should feel, function and perform and how that aligns with end user experience, operations and cost considerations.

How we work with Owners

After working diligently with the greater design team (architect, interior designer, landscape architect) we review concepts in detail with ownership.  This forum allows us to communicate the lighting design and align with ownership on the direction for the project.

02 – Permitting

Meet requirements

We prepare documentation and specifications to adhere to code, energy standards and jurisdictional approvals such as IECC and Dark Sky.

How we work with local jurisdictions

Permit approvals for lighting are very contingent on our communication with contacts at each jurisdiction to ensure that we understand the requirements and are working and proposing solutions that fit within their workflow.

03 – Design Development

Refine the system

We take the approved concepts and feedback from the concept collaboration and implement them into a set of documents that include lighting and lighting control layouts and specifications.  We will also ensure the design and specifications adhere to the budget defined in the concept phase.

How we work with Interior Designers

We collaborate closely with interior designers to integrate lighting seamlessly into the spatial and material palette, shaping how surfaces, textures, and volumes are experienced. Through an iterative exchange of layouts, finishes, and control strategies, we refine scenes and layers of light to support the design narrative while enhancing comfort, flexibility, and atmosphere.

04 – Construction Documents

Detail the design

We produce detailed, clear and comprehensive drawings and specifications that can be bid and built.

How we work with Architects

We work hand-in-hand with the architecture team to refine and establish the constructability of the lighting design such as details, dimensions, mounting, finishes, and technical requirements.  We also coordinate, in 3D, systems coordination and identify clashes with other disciplines in this phase.

05 – Lighting Controls

Shape the experience

We design intuitive control systems that support flexibility and performance.

How we work with Homeowners

We work hand in hand with owners to establish user interface locations, keypad designs / engravings and scene control by walking through the job site during construction to ensure everything is as intuitive as possible.

06 – Construction Observation

Stay engaged

We review installation and coordinate with the team to maintain design integrity.

How we work with Construction Teams

We work closely with construction teams to ensure lighting systems are executed as intended, coordinating details in the field to align design vision with real-world conditions. Through ongoing dialogue and site collaboration, we support installation, aiming, and commissioning—refining scenes and controls to deliver a seamless, fully realized environment.

07 – Final Adjustments & Aiming

The last 10% 

We calibrate and adjust lighting to achieve the intended result by working on site to aim lighting and adjust lighting control light levels and scenes.

How we work with Homeowners

We work on site diligently with the Homeowner to test lighting scenes and buttons and to communicate any required changes with the programming team. We will aim lighting to ensure that every detail is highlighted such as art and furniture.