An important part of a lighting designer’s role is to research and specify lighting products & technology. As well as functional aspects such as luminaires and bulbs, there are also more decorative elements to source and specify. From chandeliers to pendants, wall lights to lamps, there are many amazing solutions out there for lighting designers to choose from to ensure they deliver the best results for each and every project.
With working from home the new norm, and social distancing in place, it has been hard for lighting designers to really explore solutions. While virtual and digital aids can offer an initial insight, often there are elements of lighting that simply cannot be replicated when shown through a computer or phone screen.
For this reason, the Truly Lighting team have been keen to get back out into the world and physically see the lighting they are interested in for their projects. Here’s how we have been doing this safely and within government guidelines:
- Use technology to your advantage. While you will want to make an ultimate buying decision after seeing the product in place, there will be lots you can glean from the internet, videos, social media and other digital channels, allowing you to eliminate several solutions straight away.
- Plan out what products you want to see and make appointments with the relevant manufacturers. Give yourself more time than you need to allow for having to wait, or for social distancing which means everything can take longer than you anticipate.
There is a lot of work that can be done remotely across the lighting industry, but the need to physically view and handle products will always be there. The aesthetic and quality can only really be truly appreciated during an in person meeting.
By taking extra steps, we can all get back to some sort of normality while staying safe, and adhering to current policies.