With over 25 years of experience in lighting design, Studio N London’s managing partner Greg Lobina has seen the industry evolve into a sophisticated blend of art, technology, and sustainability. From major engineering projects to envisioning designs for historic landmarks, this Q&A explores their journey, challenges, and insights into the ever-changing world of lighting.
Q: What inspired you to start a career in lighting design, and how did that journey evolve into becoming the managing partner of Studio N London?
A: My career in lighting began with a work placement at a lighting manufacturer over 25 years ago. Working in both design and project management during that period gave me the experience and knowledge I needed to take on my role at Studio N London.
Q: Lighting design often blends art and technology. How do you strike the balance between aesthetics and functionality in your projects?
A: They really do go hand in hand. The key to striking the right balance lies in understanding the purpose of the space and the needs of its users. Once you know that, you can apply the right blend of aesthetics and functionality.
Q: Can you share a project that stands out as a highlight of your career, and what made it so special or challenging?
A: Lighting Blackfriars Bridge was the largest project I’ve been involved in, and it’s a personal highlight. It was the biggest civil engineering project of its kind, and it posed some unique challenges. For example, the Southside Staircase is floating, so lighting it required special consideration. There’s also a blue lighting theme along the platforms that needed to complement the design while not interfering with train operations.
Q: What are some of the biggest trends shaping the lighting design industry right now, and how is Studio N London adapting to them?
A: The industry is being shaped by the overlap of technology, sustainability, and human-centric design. At Studio N London, we ensure we only use lighting suppliers that follow these advances to stay ahead of the curve.
Q: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in many industries. How does Studio N London incorporate eco-friendly practices into its lighting designs?
A: We follow all the latest regulations regarding sustainability wherever practical. It’s also a great opportunity to re-examine the environmental, economic, and social aspects of lighting design. On a personal level, sustainability is part of our ethos—our Design Director even cycles to work!
Q: What role does client collaboration play in your process, and how do you ensure the client’s vision is effectively realised in the final design?
A: Collaboration is vital. It’s important to involve the client from the very start and keep them in the loop throughout the process. After all, they’re the ones who will live and work in the space, so it’s essential to be mindful of their needs.
Q: As technology advances, how do you see innovations like smart lighting and IoT impacting the future of lighting design?
A: Smart lighting and IoT are already transforming the industry. Lighting controls can now be as simple or as complex as needed, and integration is much easier these days. Most importantly, the user experience should always remain intuitive and straightforward.
Q: What strategies do you use to inspire and manage your design team, and how do you foster creativity at Studio N London?
A: Collaboration and empowerment are key. I focus on fostering open communication and encouraging everyone to share their strengths and project challenges. This approach not only inspires the team but also helps us stay motivated and creative.
Q: If you could light up any famous landmark in the world with your own unique design, which one would you choose, and what would your vision look like?
A: I’d love to light up St Albans Cathedral, which is near where I live. It’s a fantastic landmark steeped in 1,700 years of history. My vision would involve representing the layers of history and the many changes the cathedral has undergone over the centuries.