Why lighting should be considered early - not left as an afterthought
Lighting is often seen as the final flourish - a decorative overlay to accent what’s already there. But in truth, lighting is foundational. It shapes how a space feels, functions, and flows.
At Wildly Illuminating, we believe lighting design should begin at the same time as architectural planning and material selections. When considered early, lighting becomes an integral design tool—one that enhances every surface, colour, and spatial gesture.
Too often, we’re brought into projects when construction is already underway. Ceiling heights are locked in. Joinery is built. Electrical plans are finalised.
By then, lighting becomes a compromise:
Generic downlight grids
Decorative fittings added at the last minute
Missed opportunities to elevate architectural details
Early collaboration avoids these outcomes and means:
Lighting is tailored to highlight the home’s best features
Fixtures are seamlessly integrated into the architecture
Spaces feel layered, intentional, and resolved
Our full-service lighting design begins well before the build. We work closely with architects, interior designers, and builders to ensure lighting is part of the architectural dialogue - not an afterthought.
From concept to commissioning, we consider:
How lighting supports spatial intent
How it responds to natural light and daily rhythms
How it enhances materiality, mood and function
Lighting should never be bolted on. It should be built in - thoughtfully and invisibly.
For me, lighting is the silent partner in every design story.
Growing up surrounded by interiors, I saw how a single beam of light could shift a room from flat to fascinating. That early fascination has shaped my belief that great lighting doesn’t just light a room - it defines it.
That’s why I’m passionate about integrating lighting from the very beginning - so it becomes part of the architecture itself.
If you're starting a new project, bring lighting into the conversation early - alongside material palettes and spatial planning. Because when lighting is considered from the start, it doesn’t just illuminate a space.It elevates it.