Our Process
Great lighting is not the result of a single decision, but a series of thoughtful ones. Our process moves deliberately from understanding the architecture, landscape, and people who will experience a place, through design, documentation, construction, and final refinement after dark. Each phase protects the original design intent while bringing it closer to its finished expression.
01
If the property already exists, discovery begins on site, ideally at dusk. We walk the property with you and your team, studying the architecture, materials, landscape, and natural surroundings while documenting the site through photography and drone imagery. Most importantly, we listen—learning how people will move through, interact with, and experience the property after dark.If the project has yet to be built, the discovery process begins with architectural plans, renderings, and conversations with the project’s key stakeholders. The tools may change, but the objective remains the same: to understand the story of the place before determining how it should be illuminated.
02
Before considering specific fixtures or their placement, we define the design intent for each scene. We identify primary viewing angles, establish a hierarchy of light, and determine what deserves emphasis—and what should be allowed to disappear into darkness. Functional and security needs are considered alongside the desired experience, ensuring that every layer of light serves a purpose.
03
With the design fully developed, we translate the vision into a comprehensive construction plan set. Fixture locations, specifications, mounting details, power requirements, transformer locations, controls, and other critical information are clearly documented so the design can be accurately executed in the field.Delivered digitally and in print, our documents are designed to communicate clearly with architects, landscape architects, builders, electricians, and lighting installers—ensuring that design intent is carried through construction without compromise.
04
In this phase we deliver a detailed planset that clearly shows every piece of significant information for the project. Delivered both digitally and physically, our plans will be clear to any design professional, construction personal, or competent lighting installer.
05
Our involvement during construction is tailored to the needs of each project. We can collaborate with the project’s architects, landscape architects, builders, electricians, AV professionals, and lighting installers to answer questions, resolve field conditions, and ensure the design intent is carried through installation.For projects requiring installation, our sister company, Light Up Columbus, offers a team of Certified Low Voltage Lighting Technicians who share our commitment to detail and execution. Alternatively, the completed design may be installed by the client’s preferred contractor, with Christopher A. remaining involved as needed through construction.
06
The last 5% of the work is where the magic happens. Lighting can be calculated, specified, and documented, but it must ultimately be experienced.Once installation is complete, we return after dark to experience the finished property firsthand. Every fixture is carefully focused and refined—adjusting angle, intensity, beam spread, and balance to ensure each scene feels exactly as intended. These seemingly minute adjustments are often the difference between lighting that is simply well executed and lighting that is truly transformative.