Enhancing Architecture Through Thoughtful Lighting Design

AUTHOR Mike Hollaway

DATE Dec 10, 2025

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One aspect of building that often gets left until the end is the lighting, but I can’t stress enough how essential it is to plan it during the design phase. Lighting is more than just illumination; it enhances the architecture, reveals special features, and dictates the ambiance, making every corner usable and inviting no matter the time of day.

When I approach lighting design, I focus on layering three types: ambient, task, and accent lighting. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, setting the base layer of brightness. Task lighting, on the other hand, is specific to activities—think kitchen counters or reading nooks. Accent lighting is the artist’s brushstroke, highlighting architectural features like a vaulted ceiling or a beautifully detailed niche.

Integrating natural and artificial light is also key. Sunlight offers a dynamic element that transforms a space throughout the day, while artificial lighting can be tailored through dimmers and the right fixtures to create mood and warmth.

Different rooms have different lighting needs. A living room may benefit from cozy, adjustable lighting, while a kitchen requires bright, task-oriented options. The goal is to balance functionality with aesthetics, ensuring that lighting brings your spaces to life, just like architecture.

Proper lighting design isn’t just an add-on; it completes the architecture of your home. Let’s bring your vision to life with just the right lighting. Call me at (210) 490-0069 to explore how we might transform your spaces together.

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