Architectural Lighting – How to Create Unique Atmospheres

Interview with TH-A Architects and Edith Minkner

EM: Whenever I have seen one of your houses at night, I’ve been struck by how the lighting transforms the architecture and creates a unique atmosphere. What role does lighting design play in your projects?

LH: An exceptional architectural project deserves an equally exceptional lighting scheme – one that highlights its character and creates atmosphere. This is why it’s essential to integrate creative lighting design from the very beginning, achieving a perfect symbiosis of form and light. Especially in private houses and villas in Mallorca, the interplay between natural daylight and artificial light is a fundamental part of our architecture.

AT: At the start of every project, we have a clear vision of the atmosphere, the accents and the emotions we want to evoke. For us, light is far more than brightness – it’s about shaping moods and making spaces truly experiential.

EM: How do you begin with the lighting design process?

LH: On the one hand, we define the objective requirements for general illumination and any specific needs: how much light is required, in which location and for what purpose. On the other hand, we bring in the creative design ideas. Balancing the two is not always a straightforward process.

AT: The play of light and shadow gives objects definition, adds rhythm and tension, and guides the observer’s eye. In residential spaces, the ideal solution is always a layered approach – combining different types of light. Across different zones, lighting provides general illumination, orientation and accents. And of course, we use it to emphasise particular architectural gestures.

LH: High lighting quality with minimal glare is essential for wellbeing. Good light depends not only on the design of the chosen fixture but also on its placement in the room, the type of light source and the level of illumination required. Only once these parameters are clear do we select the appropriate luminaires and lamps for the task at hand.

EM: What types of lighting do you typically work with?

LH: We distinguish between general lighting, accent lighting, indirect lighting and orientation lighting. Each serves a distinct purpose and defines the character of a space. General lighting – usually provided by downlights or technical spotlights – creates a base level of light. Accent and ambient lighting, for example over the dining table, on walls or through floor and table lamps, add atmosphere. Indirect lighting, integrated into the architecture or furniture, brings depth and elegance. Orientation lighting in staircases or bathrooms enhances safety.

AT: Certain luminaires go beyond their technical function and become artistic objects in their own right. Working with such pieces is a joy, but it requires early integration into the design concept. In generous entrance halls, for instance, they can produce truly striking spatial effects.

EM: How do you stay inspired and up to date?

AT: We regularly visit the leading trade fairs. But the art market is also fascinating: with light objects, the boundary between fixture and artwork is fluid – ranging from large-scale installations to highly sophisticated interactive projections.

EM: What has changed in lighting technology in recent years?

AT: We can now take much better advantage of the combination of LED luminaires and BUS-control systems, and the applications have become much easier to manage. Both the fixtures and the programming of the systems are now more affordable, which opens up exciting opportunities for design.

EM: How would you describe your approach to working with light?

LH: Keep it simple and consistent! Surfaces and materials must always be considered together with the light as a single design unit. We use light contrasts to add depth to rooms, but mixing too many colour temperatures quickly tires the eye. Layered zoning creates islands of comfort.

AT: Create magic through light! Architecture is static, but light makes perception fluid. With light we can create almost theatrical scenarios, introduce variations, add effects and transform a space. We can also blur the boundary between inside and outside and accompany the transition into dusk. These are the magical moments we work for.