Episode 7: Mentorship
10/08/24 • 53 min
What are the hidden secrets behind the successful collaboration and mentorship in the lighting design industry?
In this episode, hosts Lisa Reed and Avi Mor are joined by Thomas Paterson, IALD, Director, Lux Populi SA de CV. Lux Populi is an architectural and artwork lighting design consultancy, based in Mexico, with clients throughout the world. In our conversation, we explore the importance of knowledge-sharing, the critical role of controls and commissioning, and the necessity of rethinking industry practices and education to better serve clients.
Mentorship and soft skills play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the lighting design industry. As we reflect on personal journeys and the impact of mentorship, we discuss how investing in mentorship for mid-career professionals and teaching key soft skills can drive industry growth. We cover the significance of effective communication, relationship management, and collective action to foster a supportive and collaborative community. We’re sending out a “Call to Arms” to the entire industry to create opportunities for knowledge sharing and mentorship.
In This Episode:
- (00:00) The industry's camaraderie, knowledge-sharing, and focus on controls and commissioning for top-notch results
- (08:18) Challenges and complexities of modern lighting in education and healthcare, including flicker concerns and the flicker validation process
- (15:33) Aligning design principles with target audience's needs, engaging clients, and understanding first principles for effective and meaningful designs
- (25:05) Generational differences in the industry, learning first principles, Thomas’ path - from failed dancing to architectural lighting, mentorship and luck in shaping his unexpected journey in the industry, lighting opportunity with the band No Doubt
- (33:06) Failures in passing knowledge and skills to the next generation in lighting design, mentorship and soft skills for effective professional interactions
- (38:41) Overton window concept, troubleshooting education, formalized training, investing in mid-career professionals
- (47:03) Investing in expertise, utilize industry-specific resources, and advocating for collective action in developing soft skills and mentorship in lighting industry
- (55:04) Resources, industry collaboration and support in such an “odd duck” industry like lighting. Collaboration and time management are crucial in addressing community issues and taking action together for meaningful change, call to arms in the lighting industry
- Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
About the show:
Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.
Resources:
What are the hidden secrets behind the successful collaboration and mentorship in the lighting design industry?
In this episode, hosts Lisa Reed and Avi Mor are joined by Thomas Paterson, IALD, Director, Lux Populi SA de CV. Lux Populi is an architectural and artwork lighting design consultancy, based in Mexico, with clients throughout the world. In our conversation, we explore the importance of knowledge-sharing, the critical role of controls and commissioning, and the necessity of rethinking industry practices and education to better serve clients.
Mentorship and soft skills play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the lighting design industry. As we reflect on personal journeys and the impact of mentorship, we discuss how investing in mentorship for mid-career professionals and teaching key soft skills can drive industry growth. We cover the significance of effective communication, relationship management, and collective action to foster a supportive and collaborative community. We’re sending out a “Call to Arms” to the entire industry to create opportunities for knowledge sharing and mentorship.
In This Episode:
- (00:00) The industry's camaraderie, knowledge-sharing, and focus on controls and commissioning for top-notch results
- (08:18) Challenges and complexities of modern lighting in education and healthcare, including flicker concerns and the flicker validation process
- (15:33) Aligning design principles with target audience's needs, engaging clients, and understanding first principles for effective and meaningful designs
- (25:05) Generational differences in the industry, learning first principles, Thomas’ path - from failed dancing to architectural lighting, mentorship and luck in shaping his unexpected journey in the industry, lighting opportunity with the band No Doubt
- (33:06) Failures in passing knowledge and skills to the next generation in lighting design, mentorship and soft skills for effective professional interactions
- (38:41) Overton window concept, troubleshooting education, formalized training, investing in mid-career professionals
- (47:03) Investing in expertise, utilize industry-specific resources, and advocating for collective action in developing soft skills and mentorship in lighting industry
- (55:04) Resources, industry collaboration and support in such an “odd duck” industry like lighting. Collaboration and time management are crucial in addressing community issues and taking action together for meaningful change, call to arms in the lighting industry
- Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
About the show:
Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.
Resources:
Previous Episode
Episode 6: Let's Talk Custom Fixtures
In this episode of the Lighting Matters Podcast, hosts Lisa Reed and Avi Mor are joined by Kyllene “Kelly” Jones, LEED AP, President and Co-CEO of Lighting Design Alliance, a lighting trailblazer, and our first female guest. Kelly shares her remarkable career path, from her initial dream of becoming an architect (inspired by her father), to discovering her true passion for lighting at the University of Kansas. She recounts her pivotal internships with industry giants like Randy Burkett and HOK, and how moving to Los Angeles and connecting with influential figures like Chip Israel, Andy Powell, and Lisa Reed shaped her career.
Learn about the creative challenges and innovative solutions behind high-profile projects, including bespoke fixtures for Disney and the iconic Beverly Hills Triangles street lighting. Kelly offers a masterclass in how historical and cultural research, combined with cutting-edge technology like 3D printing, plays a crucial role in refining and realizing unique lighting designs. You’ll hear Kelly discuss the hurdles of evolving lamp specifications and the necessity of consistent design aesthetics, and share anecdotes from her extensive project portfolio, including a memorable collaboration with the Cheesecake Factory. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or a seasoned professional, this episode provides invaluable insights into the creative and technical aspects of custom lighting design.
In This Episode:
- (00:00) Kelly's journey into lighting design, internships with influential figures, and skills gained along the way.
- (06:58) Custom lighting design process, themed projects for Disney, use of car paint, research for lanterns, the impact of 3D printing.
- (13:10) Collaboration between lighting and interior designers, technical guidance, custom fixtures, client standards, and budget impacts.
- (18:23) A theming project and a doubled budget, keeping important elements
- (25:50) The challenges of evolving lamp specifications and maintaining consistent design aesthetics in lighting, with anecdotes from projects and the importance of partnerships with distributors.
- (32:48) Restaurant clients, collaboration with IALD lighting designers can save costs and achieve desired looks, as seen in a Beverly Hills residential project.
- (42:07) Collaborating with experienced custom lighting manufacturers to balance creativity and practicality in unique designs.
- (51:00) Lighting is crucial in design, consult professional designers, and seek professional advice!
- Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
About the show:
Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.
Resources:
Visit our Sponsor Prudential Lighting
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Episode 8: Origin Stories
In this episode, hosts Avi Mor and Lisa Reed share their personal career journeys and insights. Avi Mor, founder of Mor Lights, and Lisa Reed, Principal and CEO of Reed Burkett Lighting Design, explore how Avi’s theatrical background informs his innovative approaches in architectural settings. Avi and Lisa discuss the challenges and triumphs of their industry, highlighting the importance of passion, advocacy, and technical precision in creating lighting solutions that resonate emotionally and functionally.
Avi shares his enthusiasm for problem-solving and design defense, particularly in advocating for cost-effective solutions like DALI lighting controls. Lisa, on the other hand, is driven by creating spaces that inspire and excite people, such as the impactful Pillars of the Valley installation. Together, they tackle industry frustrations, including extended payment schedules and pricing transparency, while advocating for independent, unbiased advice in lighting design. The episode wraps up with a call to appreciate the transformative power of lighting in everyday experiences.
In This Episode:
- (00:00) Avi Mor's journey from high school theater to founding Mor Lights. How theatrical training influences architectural lighting design, emphasizing the shared principles and unique insights gained from both fields.
- (10:50) Lisa Reed's transition from aspiring architect to a leader in architectural lighting design. Her story reflects the blend of art and science in her work, alongside personal growth and professional challenges.
- (20:06) Passion and excitement in lighting design, showcasing projects like the Pillars of the Valley installation. Client interests and the role of advocacy in effective design solutions. Fixing issues, DALI controls.
- (29:47) Challenges in the AEC industry, particularly around payment schedules and pricing transparency. Strategies such as Acquisition Services are discussed to manage these issues and improve project execution.
- (41:33) Small businesses in lighting, working to improve the industry. Pet peeves. The importance of lighting in everyday experiences.
- Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
About the show:
Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.
Resources:Lisa Reed LinkedInAvraham Mor LinkedInReed Burkett Lighting DesignMorlights
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