Next year marks my 20 years in the lighting industry. As I type I can't quite believe this is true. It has flown by and I wouldn't change any of it. From starting as an apprentice street lighting designer, to managing design and construction teams, every step has lead to my position now and for that I am grateful.
I've been reflecting on the years and thought about a quick thread on 10 tips or advice I would pass on to upcoming street lighting designers. Check them out below:
End up in lighting by accident? Anyone else? It's rarely a path that's planned. Everyone I know stumbled into the industry. Embrace the unexpected journey.
Light for people, not places - always start with who and why people use a space.
Practise common sense and engineering judgement at all times - Don't get too caught up in the details. Practical solutions beat theoretical perfection. Excellence is quality delivered.
Uniformity is key - it just is!
Does it need to be lit? A key question to ask.
There is always a better optic - keep looking.
A lighting design can be prepared a 1,000 ways - yours is valid, but learn from advice and remember that any suggestions to improve will ultimately improve your work going forward - learn, learn, learn.
Quality > quantity.
More light, less light - someone will always want more light and someone will always want less.
Stay curious - the technology in lighting is always advancing, stay ahead.
Just a few thoughts that come to mind and these points I will expand on so keep an eye out for future posts.
I've learned a lot from a lot of people in my career. Some have been true mentors, I hope one day I get the opportunity to mentor and give back.
Speak soon.
