As a Co-founder and Principal of Within Light Studio, I’m passionate about merging art and design to create unique spatial experiences through lighting design. I’m originally from Colombia, where I pursued my undergraduate degree in Graphic Design and later moved to Italy to study Interior Design. After gaining valuable experience in the industry, I went on to earn my Master of Fine Arts in Architectural Lighting Design from Parsons in New York.
With over 15 years of experience in the interior and lighting design fields, I have collaborated with interior designers, architects, and clients from all around the world to build projects that push the boundaries of what is possible in hospitality lighting design. My work reflects my passion for the power of architectural lighting design to transform spaces and create meaningful experiences for people.
As an Interior Designer working in Colombia, I was struck by the profound impact that lighting can have on our perception and emotional response. I began to realize that lighting isn't just a practical element but a fundamental aspect of the human experience.
This insight was solidified for me when I had the opportunity to attend an extraordinary exhibition by Argentinian kinetic artist, Julio Leparc, entitled "Light in Movement". The dynamic interplay of light and movement in his work left an indelible impression on me. From that moment I knew I wanted to be a Lighting Designer.
Today, as a Principal Lighting Designer at Within Light Studio, I enjoy working with light and shadow to create immersive and unforgettable experiences in hospitality design.
At Within Light Studio, my business partner Wesley Burdett and I serve as the principal lighting designers. Where I lead the lighting design studio in Chicago, Wes holds court at our studio in Los Angeles.
Our boutique design consultancy specializes in the art and science of architectural lighting design, with a particular focus on the ever-changing world of hospitality design. From cozy restaurants and bars to luxury hotels and residences, our team of designers bring experience and passion to every project we take on.
At the heart of my design style is an appreciation for the transformational power of lighting. When I approach a new project, I start by thinking about the ways in which light can be used to evoke specific feelings and create a particular atmosphere within a space.
Whether I'm designing lighting for a restaurant, a hotel, or a private residence, my goal is always to use light in a way that enhances the mood of those who inhabit the space, creating an atmosphere that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
At Within Light Studio, we have a meticulous design process to collaborate with project teams and develop lighting designs tailored to each project. We instil a partnership approach with our clients and the design team to really understand their vision and the stories they want to convey through the space. From there, we dive into our concept phase, where we ideate ways to elevate the guest journey and enhance their emotional connection to the space.
Coordination is a crucial part of our design process, and we work closely with project managers and electricians to ensure the seamless integration of our lighting design. But the most exciting part of our process is when we visit the site. We’re very hands on – focusing the lights, checking light levels and fine-tuning every detail along the way to make sure the design aligns with our original concepts. In this way, we ensure that every space not only looks beautiful but also creates a truly magical experience for those who engage with it.
As people, our biological nature reacts to light in a universal way that transcends cultural and geographic differences. I design for human beings and our biological response to light. For example, cooler and brighter lighting temperatures make us more alert, much like how we feel when we wake up in the morning.
In contrast, warmer and softer lighting has a calming effect, similar to the feeling we have after the sun sets at the end of the day. By designing for the needs of people, rather than cultural norms, I believe we can create lighting solutions that are universally effective and impactful.
We make people happy.
We create beautiful experiences.
We transform the world.
Ultimately, success in the design industry comes down to a combination of hard work, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for what you do. You have to be there for your clients throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to project completion.
Lastly, I cannot stress enough the importance of connecting with people and being kind. Networking is crucial in any industry, and building genuine relationships can open doors and lead to new and unexpected opportunities.
Located in Chicago’s Randolph Row, Hide + Seek is a modern American bar and restaurant embodying comfortable…
(read more at MUSE Design Awards)
Mara Villegas is the co-founder and principle of Within Light Studio and is driven her passion of merging art and design in creating unique spatial experiences through design lighting.
Read more about this interview with Rachel Ott from Canada, the Silver Winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards.