At the intersection of cutting-edge technology and purposeful design, Illuminated Lighting Design had the pleasure of joining Connecting Tech + Design with Katye McGregor Bennett, a podcast host known for bringing together voices that help shape the future of the custom technology integration industry. Recorded live during ISE 2025 in Barcelona, Spain, the episode dove deep into the evolving relationship between lighting designers, integrators, and the technology that connects it all.

Representing our company were Lynne Stambouly, affectionately known as The Light Lady, and Bruce Clark, aka the Lighting Sherpa – guiding integrators through the sometimes intimidating terrain of modern lighting design. Together, they shared insights from their years of experience, discussed the evolution of lighting in the CI (custom integration) channel, and reflected on what it means to bring custom lighting design to places like Fort Myers and to the rest of the U.S. and beyond.

How has lighting design changed over time?

Lighting took center stage during this dynamic conversation about the evolving role of lighting designers in the custom integration (CI) space. The episode touched on everything from the energy of the event to the deeper responsibilities that come with designing light for human well-being. Lynne and Bruce unpacked how lighting has moved from simple utility to a critical design element – one that influences not just the functionality of a space, but how people feel in it.

Their conversation highlighted how far the industry has come but also how far it has to go. Even with the most advanced technologies, electric lighting still doesn’t fully meet the biological needs of a human body that come from natural daylight. Bruce reflected on this during a discussion about his recent class on human-centric lighting, pointing out how today’s homes are often too dim during the day and too bright at night, throwing off our circadian rhythm. It’s a stark contrast to the millions of years we spent living by the natural light of the sun, supplemented only by fire, oil, and gas-based sources. The 140-plus years we’ve had electric light barely register in that evolutionary timeline; and yet, we seem to expect our bodies to have fully adapted to the new, modern environmental conditions.

The shift from analog to digital lighting has opened new doors for collaboration between integrators and lighting designers, but it also raises deeper questions about how we use light – and whether we’re using it wisely. From color tuning and rhythm-supporting schedules to avoiding costly installation mistakes, Lynne and Bruce emphasized the need for both intent and education. 

Lighting as a craft, not a commodity

One of the most powerful ideas that emerged during the conversation was the shift in mindset required when approaching lighting in the modern home. Lynne compared early LED technology to being handed a stick instead of a brush – limited and imprecise. Today, designers are equipped with what she calls a “Swiss Army knife” of possibilities. With digital lighting, it’s not just about brightness anymore. It’s about tone, temperature, texture, time, and how all of those elements influence perception, mood, and health.

Bruce echoed that sentiment, explaining how lighting now demands a level of artistry and awareness that goes well beyond product selection, telling a story through light. 

Collaboration over handoff

Throughout the episode, both Lynne and Bruce underscored a recurring theme: lighting design should never be treated as a one-and-done handoff. True success in this field comes from ongoing collaboration between the designer, the integrator, the builder, and the homeowner. They spoke candidly about the real-world consequences of disconnects on the job site: misplaced fixtures, wasted budgets, and compromised experiences. But they also shared how transformative it can be when everyone is aligned on the project.

For Lynne and Bruce, being a lighting designer in the CI space isn’t about controlling the process, it’s about guiding it. That means showing up for walk-throughs, making yourself available when plans hit obstacles, and ensuring the final product lives up to the vision that was sold. It means ensuring that the plan actually works in the real world, even when unexpected challenges arise. As they put it, the magic happens when everyone at the table speaks the same language, and when lighting becomes a shared responsibility.

Who are the leading experts for custom lighting design in Fort Myers & the SW Florida region?

At Illuminated Lighting Design, we collaborate with homeowners and design professionals to craft lighting systems that do more than just look good. From subtle layers that shift with the time of day to scenes that enhance how you live, we craft lighting that supports your lifestyle, your architecture, and your well-being. 

Whether it’s new construction or a renovation in Southwest Florida or anywhere in the region, we bring deep technical know-how and a designer’s eye to every project. Because in the end, good lighting isn’t seen, it’s felt.

At Illuminated Lighting Design Services (ILDS), we believe that lighting is more than illumination – it’s an art form, a science, and a crucial element in shaping a space’s ambiance. Our very own Lynne Stambouly recently sat down with Maria Deschamps (of Maria Deschamps Design) for part two of a four-part interview for Technology Designer, sharing her deep experience and expertise in lighting design and perspective about the evolution of LED technology. Her insights as an experienced home lighting designer in Fort Myers highlight how the company remains at the forefront of innovation while staying true to the timeless principles of exceptional lighting design.

What is a lighting designer’s role?

In the first part of the interview, Lynne delves into the philosophy behind lighting design. Every project starts with a vision – understanding how light interacts with architecture, materials, and human experience. Whether it’s illuminating artwork, integrating hidden linear lighting, or crafting a dynamic ambiance with color-tunable LEDs, her approach goes beyond fixtures and wattage; it’s about storytelling through light.

Lynne also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, working closely with architects, designers, and homeowners to ensure lighting enhances a space’s intended aesthetic and functionality. She discusses how lighting should be layered, combining ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth, warmth, and versatility.

What is the future of LED lighting?

In the second part of the interview, Lynne focuses on the evolution of LED technology and how LEDs have reshaped the lighting industry with unprecedented advancements in energy efficiency, customization, and design flexibility. However, not all LEDs are created equal. At Illuminated Lighting Design, we prioritize high-efficacy, high-color fidelity (CRI/TM-30) solutions that maintain the warmth and vibrancy of traditional incandescent lighting. Whether illuminating a luxury residence, a high-end commercial project, or an art installation, our expertise ensures the results align with the client’s vision and the space’s architectural intent.

• Opportunity | Tunable White and Dynamic Color: Tunable white (TW) lighting allows users to shift between cool, bright daylight and warm, cozy ambient tones, supporting circadian experiences and enhancing overall visual comfort. Dynamic RGBW (Red, Green, Blue, White) and full-spectrum LED solutions also enable vibrant, customizable color expressions, making them ideal for entertainment spaces, hospitality settings, artistic installations, or anywhere that could benefit from a full range of colored light options.

• Opportunity | Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Solutions: LEDs consume up to 80% less energy than traditional light bulbs and have significantly longer lifespans by 25-50x, reducing waste and environmental impact. Paired with advanced dimming and occupancy sensors, LED technology contributes towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient built environment. At ILDS, we prioritize LED lighting solutions that balance both aesthetics and energy savings.

• Power Challenges: Lynne also touches on challenges like ensuring proper dimming compatibility, mitigating flicker, and selecting the correct drivers and wire gauge to avoid voltage drop with linear LED applications.

Collaboration is key

We strongly value our partnerships with architects, interior designers, and integrators and stress the importance of collaboration. By working closely with such project stakeholders, we ensure a seamless integration of lighting solutions that complement and enhance the space’s overall aesthetic and functionality while not compromising design intent. This collaborative approach results in breathtaking yet functional lighting experiences.

Leading the way in custom lighting solutions

As LED technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for innovation are endless. While advances in micro-LEDs, OLEDs, and Li-Fi (light-based wireless communication) are pushing the boundaries of what lighting can achieve in more commercial, industrial, and public sectors, at Illuminated Lighting Design, we remain focused on incorporating the latest advancements in custom lighting designs that are beautiful, intelligent, and budget-conscious. Whether it’s a luxury residence, boutique hospitality space, or high-end retail environment, the company’s expertise in LED technology, custom decorative fixtures, and integrated lighting design ensures that every space is beautiful and functional.

Lynne’s interview underscores our commitment to following trends and shaping the future of lighting. We believe that great lighting isn’t just about visibility – it’s about creating an experience, evoking emotion, and enhancing how we interact with our surroundings.

Experience the difference a trusted home lighting designer in Fort Myers can make 

Lighting is more than illumination – it’s an art form that transforms spaces and enlightens experiences. At Illuminated Lighting Design, we have over 100 years of combined experience in expert lighting design, innovative lighting solutions, and a passion for illuminated excellence. So, if you need professional lighting designs and lighting solutions for any residential, light commercial, retrofit projects, or specialty artistic installations in Lee County and beyond, don’t hesitate to contact us today and let us help enlighten your vision!

Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere, functionality, and overall experience of a bathroom. A well-designed lighting plan goes beyond simple overhead fixtures – it layers multiple light sources to enhance both aesthetics and usability. 

From statement-making pendants and sconces to subtle bathroom recessed lighting, each element serves a purpose in balancing brightness, creating depth, and adding warmth to the space. In this guide, we’ll explore the key lighting solutions that elevate bathroom design, ensuring the right balance of beauty and practicality.

How do I design lighting for a bathroom?

Understanding the interplay of different lighting types can dramatically transform a bathroom from a mere functional space into a soothing retreat. Let’s dive into the array of lighting options that not only fulfill these roles but also integrate harmoniously into the overall design of your bathroom.

Pendants

Pendant lights bring elegance and character to a bathroom, offering both ambient illumination and a bold design feature. When suspended on either side of a vanity, they create a balanced, vertical wash of light that enhances the reflection in mirrors without harsh shadows. For larger bathrooms, a cluster of pendants can add dimension, acting as both a sculptural focal point and an efficient light source. 

Bath bars

A bath bar is a sleek and modern alternative to traditional vanity lighting, offering even illumination across the face. Mounted above or alongside a mirror, it eliminates shadows and provides a flattering glow, perfect for grooming tasks. For a more integrated look, bath bars can be recessed into millwork or custom vanities, allowing the light to feel like an organic extension of the design rather than an added fixture. 

Chandeliers

A chandelier in the bathroom instantly elevates the space, transforming it from purely practical to a luxurious retreat. Hung above a freestanding tub or in the center of the room, it acts as a statement piece while casting ambient light that enhances the room’s overall warmth. Modern chandeliers come in a variety of styles, from minimalist to ornate crystal fixtures, allowing them to blend seamlessly into contemporary as well as traditional interiors. For the best effect, a chandelier should be positioned thoughtfully to complement and create a sense of balance in the room.

Wall sconces

Wall sconces offer both function and style, providing localized lighting that enhances the bathroom’s atmosphere. Whether flanking a mirror for task lighting or lining a hallway for an inviting glow, sconces contribute to a layered lighting design that prevents overly bright spaces. Their placement is key – when used at eye level, they offer a natural light that eliminates unflattering shadows. With styles ranging from industrial metal finishes to sculptural frosted glass, wall sconces can either work as a standalone design feature or subtly complement the surrounding materials.

Linear LED lighting

Integrated linear LED lighting offers a sleek and contemporary approach to bathroom illumination, enhancing architectural elements rather than competing with them. When seamlessly built into millwork, under floating vanities, or behind mirrors, it provides an indirect glow that feels luxurious yet understated. 

Dimmers

A well-designed bathroom should offer both bright, functional lighting and soft, relaxing ambiance, dimmers make that transition effortless. Adjustable lighting allows for brighter illumination during morning routines and a more subdued glow in the evening, ideal for unwinding after a long day. Pairing dimmers with multiple light sources such as pendants or integrated energy-efficient LEDs, ensures the bathroom adapts to different moods and operates throughout the day.

Recessed lighting

Though not the primary focus of a well-designed bathroom lighting plan, recessed lighting plays an important supporting role in creating a balanced, well-lit space. When used thoughtfully, recessed lights provide ambient illumination without drawing attention to the fixture itself, preserving the clean lines of the design. They’re best placed around the perimeter of the ceiling to provide even, indirect lighting rather than being concentrated in the center, which can create harsh shadows. In larger bathrooms, recessed lighting can help distribute light across the space, complementing statement fixtures like chandeliers or wall sconces.

What is the best company for bathroom recessed lighting near me in Fort Myers?

By thoughtfully layering lighting elements, a bathroom can achieve a harmonious balance of practicality, comfort, and visual appeal, turning an ordinary space into a refined space tailored to both everyday needs and personal style. With so many possibilities, creating a cohesive lighting plan requires both a keen design eye and an understanding of how light interacts with space and materials. That’s where we come in. 

At Illuminated Lighting Design, we specialize in award-winning, cutting-edge lighting design solutions that ensure that common pitfalls are avoided when designing your project. We handle the details so you can enjoy a flawlessly lit bathroom in your home near Murphy-Burroughs House. Contact us today to see how our tailored lighting solutions can elevate your home’s design.

With its subtle integration and sleek profile, recessed lighting transforms any area into a space of sophistication and functionality. These fixtures, set flush with the ceiling, offer a streamlined look that enhances modern interior aesthetics while providing ample illumination. 

From crafting a warm, inviting atmosphere in living rooms to ensuring bright task lighting in kitchens, recessed lighting is a dynamic design element. This guide will navigate you through the essentials of recessed lighting for your space in Fort Myers – diving into how to tailor brightness, control glare, and maximize the impact in your home.

What is recessed lighting?

Recessed lighting, a staple in modern architectural design, is renowned for its ability to blend seamlessly into any ceiling with minimal intrusion, offering a clean and refined aesthetic. This lighting style is embedded into the architecture itself, allowing light to emanate from a flush surface that complements the room’s overall design elements without the clutter of external fixtures. 

As a key component in lighting design, recessed lighting provides not only functional illumination but also enhances the spatial perception of an interior space, making rooms appear larger and ceilings higher. It gives designers the flexibility to spotlight focal points, wash walls with light, or provide balanced ambient lighting that ties together the look and feel of a room. The strategic placement and choice of recessed lighting can dramatically affect the mood and functionality of any environment, making it a critical tool in the arsenal of interior design.

What are the benefits of recessed lighting?

Recessed lighting transcends its role as mere illumination to become an essential part of architectural aesthetics. Its integrated nature preserves the architectural purity while offering different forms of illumination depending on the type of downlight used – fixed, adjustable, or wall wash. Here are the transformative benefits it offers:

1. Clean and minimalist aesthetic

Recessed lighting integrates directly into the ceiling, eliminating the need for bulky fixtures that can disrupt a room’s design. This makes it ideal for modern, contemporary, or minimalist spaces where clean lines and open layouts are a priority. By keeping the ceiling visually uncluttered, recessed lights help create an airy, open feel.

2. Layered and versatile illumination

Good lighting design isn’t about a single light source – it’s about layering. Recessed lighting can serve as a directional light source for accentuating artwork, displays, or textured surfaces, creating an ambient effect. However, when used for task lighting, such as illuminating kitchen counters or reading nooks, it functions more as a focused light rather than an ambient one. With the right balance, a space feels dynamic, functional, and inviting.

3. Enhancing architectural features

Recessed lights can be used to emphasize design elements that deserve attention, such as textured walls, vaulted ceilings, or built-in shelving. This subtle yet effective approach ensures that design elements receive the attention they deserve, enriching the overall aesthetic.

4. Customization and control

With advancements in dimmable LED technology and smart lighting systems, recessed lighting provides a new level of flexibility in design. Brightness, color temperature, and even automated lighting transitions can be adjusted to complement the space’s function and ambiance throughout the day. This level of control allows for a lighting scheme that feels effortless yet intentional, enhancing both the atmosphere and usability of a space.

What are the rules for recessed lighting?

To maximize the effectiveness and aesthetics of recessed lighting, here are some important rules to follow:

Spacing and placement

The general rule for optimal spacing is to place the lights at a distance equal to half the height of the ceiling. For example, in a room with an 8-foot ceiling, lights should be spaced approximately 4 feet apart. This ensures even distribution of light, preventing dark spots and overly bright areas.

Layer your lighting

While recessed lighting can serve as a primary light source, it’s best used in conjunction with other types of lighting. Incorporate ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a layered effect that adds depth and functionality to the room.

Avoid glare and shadows

Position lights carefully to avoid casting shadows or creating glare. This is particularly important in task-oriented spaces like kitchens and offices. Placing lights directly over the edge of countertops or work surfaces can help minimize shadows cast by the user.

Use the right bulbs

Choose bulbs that provide the appropriate color temperature and lumens for the intended space. Warmer tones are great for living areas where a cozy atmosphere is desired, while cooler tones work well in task-oriented areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Who are the go-to experts for recessed lighting installation in Fort Myers?

At Illuminated Lighting Design, our expert designers are dedicated to helping you avoid common installation mistakes that could detract from your home’s beauty and functionality. Whether you’re looking to enhance your kitchen with practical energy-efficient LED solutions or add a touch of luxury to your bathroom with recessed lighting, our tailored designs provide the perfect blend of style and efficiency for your space near Edison Mall. Schedule a consultation today and see how we can transform your lighting experience.

Art can evoke emotions, tell stories, and create an ambiance in your home. But without the proper lighting, even the most compelling piece can fade into the background. Illuminating your artwork properly enhances its beauty and ensures it captures the attention it deserves. In this article, we’ll explore essential tips for lighting your art in ways that highlight its detail and color, enhancing your overall home decor. 

Whether you’re an avid art collector looking for illumination design consultants in Naples or just starting to decorate with a few key pieces, these tips will help you showcase your artwork with the respect and drama they merit.

How do you illuminate a picture?

Understanding the nuances of art lighting is key to achieving the perfect balance between visibility and preservation. Each piece of art has its own lighting demands, depending on its medium, pigments, and the story it aims to tell. Here’s how you can ensure your artwork is seen in the best possible light, literally and figuratively.

1. Choose the right type of light.

The type of light you use can drastically affect how an artwork is perceived. LED lights are preferred for their broad spectrum of colors and the ability to closely mimic natural light without the damaging effects of UV rays. Halogen bulbs, once popular for art lighting, are being replaced by LEDs due to their energy efficiency and longevity. 

2. Consider the color temperature and CRI.

Color temperature and Color Rendering Index (CRI) are crucial in art illumination. Opt for lights with a high CRI (90+ is ideal) to ensure that the colors and details of your art are vivid and accurate. A neutral color temperature (around 3000K-4000K) usually provides a crisp, clean light that enhances most forms of artwork.

3. Use adjustable lighting systems.

Art isn’t static, and your lighting shouldn’t be either. Adjustable track lighting or gallery lights offer flexibility to highlight different pieces as your collection evolves. These systems allow you to direct light precisely and can be adapted for new pieces or changed displays. The versatility of adjustable systems also makes it easier to experiment with lighting effects until you achieve the perfect illumination for each artwork.

4. Avoid direct sunlight.

While natural light can make colors pop, it’s harmful over time, causing fading and material degradation. Position your artwork so it benefits from indirect natural light, or use artificial lighting that replicates daylight without the harmful UV and infrared rays. This approach preserves the vibrancy of your art for years to come, maintaining its integrity and value.

5. Highlight with angles.

Lighting artwork at a 30-degree angle can reduce glare and avoid casting unwanted shadows, which is especially important for textured surfaces like sculptures or mixed media pieces. This angle can be adjusted slightly to accommodate the specific hanging height and viewer perspective. Experimenting with different angles can also highlight unique textures and details in the artwork, enhancing its visual impact.

6. Layer your lighting.

Combine ambient, accent, and task lighting to create depth and enhance the environment around your artwork. Ambient lighting sets the room’s overall mood, while accent lights draw attention directly to the art. Task lighting might be used in reading areas near art installations, subtly blending functionality with home interior aesthetics.

7. Consider the frame and glass.

If your artwork is framed under glass, be aware of potential reflections and choose lights that can be positioned to minimize glare. Anti-reflective glass is also worth considering if lighting angles are challenging to manage. Additionally, the frame can influence how light interacts with the glass, so selecting a frame that complements the lighting setup can further improve the artwork’s view.

Who are the best illumination design consultants near me in Naples?

The right lighting transcends mere visibility, shaping the mood and soul of your space. With a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, Illuminated Lighting Design ensures that your art and your entire home benefit from thoughtful lighting design and solutions. 

Our expertise allows us to craft custom lighting strategies that enhance the mood of any room, turning ordinary spaces into captivating experiences. Whether you’re looking to illuminate your cherished artworks or need a comprehensive lighting design that harmonizes with your lifestyle near Royal Harbor, the state, nationwide, and beyond, our team is here to light up your world!

Have you ever walked into a room and felt instantly calmer or more energized because of the lighting? It’s not magic – it’s innovative and intelligent lighting design. Lighting does so much more than brighten up a space. It sets the mood, highlights your favorite design elements, and makes every room perfectly functional for its purpose. 

The right lighting can transform the entire vibe, whether crafting a serene sanctuary in your bedroom or a lively entertainment area in your living room. In the following article, we’ll explore how home renovation lighting designers in Naples utilize light to create the perfect mood and function in every corner of your home. You’ll see how simple switches and thoughtful placement can revolutionize the feel and usability of your spaces.

How do you set the mood with lighting?

Setting the mood with lighting in your home involves understanding the interplay between light intensity, color temperature, and placement. Here’s how you can master these elements to enhance the atmosphere in every room:

1. Understand color temperature

Color temperature is measured in Kelvin and influences how we perceive the atmosphere in a room. For relaxing spaces like bedrooms or living rooms, opt for warmer tones (between 2700K and 3000K) that emit a cozy glow. Conversely, for areas that require focus and energy, such as home offices or kitchens, cooler temperatures (3500K to 5000K) mimic daylight and help increase concentration and alertness, enhancing mood and mental clarity.

2. Utilize dimmable solutions

The ability to adjust light intensity is crucial in setting the right mood. Dimmable LED lights allow you to alter the ambiance from bright and energetic to soft and serene with just a touch of a button. They’re perfect for multi-functional spaces like dining rooms or living areas where you might need bright light for tasks or soft light for relaxing evenings.

3. Incorporate task lighting

Task lighting is essential in areas where you perform specific activities. For example, under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen provides direct light for cooking tasks without overwhelming the space with brightness, maintaining a functional yet inviting atmosphere. Similarly, a well-placed desk lamp or reading light creates a focused environment for work or leisure while keeping the room’s cozy feel intact.

4. Play with accents

Accent lighting is your tool for creating drama and highlighting architectural features or artworks. Use track lights or spotlights to draw attention to wall art, sculptures, or bookshelves. This enhances the room’s character and layers the lighting effectively, adding depth and richness to the mood you want to set.

5. Experiment with shadows and highlights

Shadows aren’t necessarily unwanted. When used creatively, they add a sense of mystery and intrigue to a space. Consider using indirect lighting (like wall sconces or LED strips hidden behind furniture) to create gentle highlights and soft shadows that enhance the room’s dimensions without stark contrasts.

6. Choose the right bulbs

Not all light bulbs are created equal. Beyond color temperature and dimmability, consider the CRI (Color Rendering Index), which affects how colors look under artificial lighting. A higher CRI (above 80) is generally better for spaces where true color perception is crucial, such as in bathrooms or closets where you get dressed.

Who are the go-to home renovation lighting designers in Naples?

With over a century of combined experience, Illuminated Lighting Design is passionate about transforming homes with light. As proud International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) members, we’re at the forefront of lighting innovation and custom design. 

Whether you’re looking for sustainable lighting options, specialized LED solutions, or unique setups like recessed lighting that blend seamlessly indoors and outdoors, we have the expertise to make it happen. Let us help illuminate your space in Southwest Florida in ways you’ve never imagined.