Complementing style and size with lighting design and control
The Lakeland Boathouse might be smaller than our usual projects but the same design thoughts and process were used from the inital enquiry through to the finished result on site.
Clever use of concealed linear to provide main source of light in key rooms
Due to the pitched roof of the boathouse the primary light for the open plan area was provided by surface mounted adjustable spot lights. In the areas away from the main entertaining area we looked at alternative ways of lighting key areas such as the kitchen and bathroom. High power recessed linear LEDs were chosen keeping the smaller more contained areas ceiling free from surface mounted fittings.
To keep with the minimalist, clean unfussy feel of the interiors recessed linear was used to provide task lighting as well as lighting the rooms themselves.
To help with the build install channel was sent ahead allowing the site team to have a template to use early on in the build stage. This ensures the correct recess is formed and allows for the linear fitting to be installed at a later date once the exact measurements are known. For the bathroom linear we take in to account the location and IP rating zones to ensure the correct IP rated fitting is used for that particular location.
Working the clients style
From the very early stages we are talking to clients about their style and interior choices often asking them to bring pintrest boards or the like to the first design meeting. Getting to know their style is just as important as knowing and understanding the architectural plans. Knowing the direction early on means we can create a design that is sympathetic and in tune with the overall vision and style.
Whilst the architectural fittings on a project remain pretty constant despite the overall interior style the decorative items can vary massively from very traditional classic chandeliers to modern contemporary statement pieces. On this project the brief was - minimalistic, neutral colours, clean lines, not fussy.
Due to the style and size of this property there are very few decorative lighting items but the importance if getting right is just the same. Choosing decorative items with a client is very hands on and we take a very detailed approach as the technical side of the fitting needs to be just as good as the look. Meeting generally happen face to face in our showroom where we can get our hands on multiple samples, finish options and brochures sometimes even organising appointments for clients to visit the manufactures showrooms. Like all our design processes we take the time and care to make sure we get the right fittings and solution.