Lighting Design with Electrical in Mind

Many lighting designers agree that initiating the design process with the right questions, integrating designs with electrical engineering requirements, and effectively conveying the importance of well-researched lighting choices to architects, owners, and team members lead to a smoother outcome. The key is being aware of strategies and tools for coordination to avoid surprises for clients.

Since electrical engineers and lighting designers offer different perspectives on seemingly overwhelming design requirements, early, proactive communication between the two disciplines can result in more creative, better-designed solutions. 

Don’t Design in a Box

Making coordination between electrical engineers and lighting designers a priority — and being attentive to key coordination issues teams may encounter as they progress through a project’s phases — benefits the project as a whole. Key issues can include: how to share drawing files, the specification/layout of life safety lighting, lighting controls scope, and the timing of drawing swaps, all of which have a significant impact on the overall process. 

Abandon Finger Pointing 

Nobody benefits from a “not-in-my-scope” attitude that results in finger pointing — the clients least of all. Designers are ultimately part of an integrated, committed team tasked with delivering a fully coordinated project to clients. Since they all strive to produce the “perfect job” with zero issues during construction, designers must be proactive, prioritize coordination with all team members, avoid duplication, and take steps to create a fluid line of communication.

Be Aware of the Eight-Lane Highway

Remember, it is not just electrical and lighting. Electrical needs to work with mechanical plans, the architect needs to work with lighting’s RCPs, and electrical needs to work with lighting’s layouts to get every aspect coordinated. All of this needs to meet the milestone deadlines of the project. We have adopted a process called “pull planning” on a number of projects that really helps organize the overall coordination approach. 

In the world of lighting projects, miscommunication can cast a long shadow. Collaboration with one company that will manage all aspects of the lighting project is the most effective and pain-free choice for a client. That is what we do at Om Wave, a one-stop shop for lighting design, control, and electrical services. 

If you would like us to help you curate an environment that elevates your smart home experience, reach out to us at info@omwavehome.com or check out our website www.omwavehome.com.