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Light is often deemed the fourth dimension of architecture owing to its ability to transform spatial experiences with aplomb. The perception and experience of a space (or an object) is determined not solely by its walls and faces, but also by the way it is illuminated—or obscured in darkness. Lighting, therefore, becomes an indispensable appendage in the realms of architecture, design and art.
UK's sole trade show, LiGHT, is dedicated to just this: the ever-evolving art of lighting design and its commerce. The design event's recently concluded edition, LiGHT 24, took over the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, from November 20 - 21, 2024, opening its doors to a fusion of innovation and creativity in lighting.
A plethora of visitors, from architects to interior designers and lighting designers, trickled into the event's premise, an exhibition space brimming with international lighting brands and their latest product design ranges. The design showcases were further supplemented by [d]arc thoughts, a vast talks programme which delved into the industry's most pressing issues. Samta Nadeem, curatorial director of STIR, moderated the talk titled The Next Generation of Design, where the speakers—Sacha Abizadeh (growth director, WSP); Tiziana Regalado (lighting designer, Akarui); Isabelle Lane (lighting designer, Akarui)—speculated what is next in the discipline and pedagogy of lighting design, its legacy, future and where they collide.
Amid striking light installations and displays by global brands and local pioneers dabbling with sustainability, interactivity and future trends, STIR, as a media partner with LiGHT 24, handpicks five brand showcases which stood out for their ingenuity, innovation and passion for luminaires.
Axis by ERCO
A leader in architectural lighting, German brand ERCO, set new standards concerning lighting quality for display case lighting with Axis. The showcase's spotlights featured a sleek and minimal design, employing advanced LED technology that ensures optimal colour rendering and focused illumination. Within its miniature skeleton, three interchangeable lenses allow light distributions to be changed without tools, for strong accents ranging from spot (17°) to wide flood (45°) for larger light cones. Additional filters and honeycomb louvres achieve a precise adjustment of light and visual comfort. Adjustable and versatile beam angles and precision optics allow for custom lighting solutions and impressive accents—ideal for museums, galleries and retail spaces alike.
FM by Davide Groppi
An elegant antenna of light, Davide Groppi's FM is a compact fixture that offers powerful LED light output, suitable for creating both ambient and focused illumination in a variety of spaces. Clean lines and simple, geometric form delineate the modern design of the lamp. The delicate form, including a tiny light source and a thin stem akin to a pencil stroke, expresses sheer function and essentialness, yet does not fail to make a visual impact. Its subtle presence and exceptional performance make it a timeless addition to any contemporary interior.
Phantom Mesh by Vivalyte
The idea of innovation and the future came to the fore with Vivalyte's presentation at LiGHT 24. The Belgium-based brand partook in the trade show with its Phantom Mesh, a see-through holographic display that breathes life into eye-catching visuals while maintaining its transparency. The ultra-thin, lightweight LED screen, foldable and flexible like fabric, can create dynamic presentations on windows, glass walls or other structures, ideal for branding, retail and installations. Lighting, however, is not visible on the back of the Phantom Mesh, avoiding visual disturbance for people behind the screen.
FOLIO shelves
At the design festival, Italian brand FOLIO captivated audiences with their sleek and sophisticated backlit shelves, redefining how lighting can enhance functional design. Combining minimalist aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, these shelves feature not only feature subtle LED backlighting that illuminates spaces but also spotlights that highlight the objects displayed seamlessly integrated into their structure. The design's emphasis on clean lines and soft illumination creates an inviting ambience, while the energy-efficient lighting solutions reflect FOLIO's commitment to sustainability. Perfect for both residential and commercial settings, these backlit shelves embody the brand's passion for innovation, offering a perfect blend of form, function and light.
seventies 70's by mawa
Germany-based brand mawa presented its seventies 70's series, marking a decade of its contribution to the lighting industry. Originally designed as a bespoke solution for the Deutsche Oper Berlin in tribute to architect Fritz Bornemann, the series has evolved into a premium, museum-certified lighting family. In 2025, the brand is set to unveil an innovative lighting solution specifically designed for museums. This innovative intervention will promote the preservation of artworks solely through precise light control and colour calibration, extending the lifespan of exhibits without the need for human interference. The technology aspires not only to protect artworks but also to ensure their long-term conservation—marking a new avenue in lighting for the museum sector.
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