Designing with Light: Richard Kelly’s Principles in Practice at Harrods
When we speak about beautifully lit spaces, we are often responding to more than just brightness. We are responding to the quality of light. Richard Kelly, one of the most influential lighting designers of the twentieth century, gave structure to this idea with his three-part framework for architectural lighting: Focal Glow, Ambient Luminescence, and Play of Brilliants.
Kelly’s work was not about simply illuminating a space. It was about using light as a material to shape experience. His principles continue to influence architects and designers around the world, offering a timeless foundation for balancing function, atmosphere, and emotional resonance.
- Focal Glow provides clarity and direction. It draws the eye, defines tasks, and creates intimacy.
- Ambient Luminescence offers spatial awareness and calm. It is the overall wash of light that fills a room without drawing attention to itself.
- Play of Brilliants adds drama and delight. It introduces sparkle, pattern, or rhythm, light as decoration and emotional energy.
These three modes do not compete; they collaborate. When they do, the result is a space that feels considered, intuitive, and full of life.
A refined and layered example of this can be seen at The Georgian at Harrods, where Iberian Lighting collaborated with David Collins Studio to reimagine a historic dining room through sculptural, atmospheric lighting.
The Georgian Restaurant, Harrods: Kelley’s Principles in Action
Focal Glow
Each table is lit with its own soft pool of light cast by tailored fabric lamps. This is a focal glow at its most refined, directing attention to the setting below, creating intimacy, and suggesting a sense of occasion without overwhelming the guest.
Ambient Luminescence
The room’s ambient glow is achieved through large-scale gathered ceiling diffusers, subtly concealing and softening the light source. These shades reflect light off the ceiling, distributing it evenly throughout the space. The result is both luminous and calm, highlighting material richness while eliminating harsh contrast.
Play of Brilliants
Crystal chandeliers introduce sparkle, layering the space with visual energy. Their reflective surfaces, in combination with mirrors and polished metal finishes, create shimmer and movement. Light becomes ornament and atmosphere. It is a classic flourish that adds elegance without excess.
Let Us Help Illuminate Your Vision
Whether you are designing a restaurant, boutique hotel, gallery, or residence, lighting should do more than meet functional requirements. It should express your design intent. We work closely with interior designers, architects, and specifiers to create bespoke lighting solutions that elevate both form and function.
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