{"id":18863,"date":"2023-05-30T09:15:00","date_gmt":"2023-05-30T09:15:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/muse.international\/?p=18863"},"modified":"2023-05-31T03:06:17","modified_gmt":"2023-05-31T03:06:17","slug":"interview-with-mara-villegas-from-united-states","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/muse.international\/index\/interview-with-mara-villegas-from-united-states\/","title":{"rendered":"Interview with Mara Villegas from United States"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q1. Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a Co-founder and Principal of Within Light Studio, I\u2019m passionate about merging art and design to create unique spatial experiences through lighting design. I\u2019m 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q2. What made you become\/why did you choose to become a designer\/artist?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q3. Tell us more about your business\/company, job profile, and what you do.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q4. What does \u201cdesign\u201d mean to you?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lighting Design involves balancing both the subjective world of art and emotions with the measurable world of physics and math. It is the marriage between the creative and the technical, where a designer’s artistic vision is communicated through the scientific principles of light and illumination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q5. What\u2019s your favorite kind of design and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have a deep appreciation for the elegant simplicity of Midcentury Modern design \u2013 the way it celebrates the beauty of honest materials and emphasizes the connection between interior and exterior spaces. Mid-century Modern design creates a sense of openness and integration with nature, allowing natural light to flood the space through the use of glass walls and facades. To me, this aesthetic is all about finding balance between form and function, and creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q6. To you, what makes a \u201cgood\u201d design?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Good design is all about putting people first. At its core, design should always be driven by the needs and desires of the people who will ultimately use and interact with the end product.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q7. Describe your design style and its main characteristics.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q8. Tell us about your design process.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\u2019re very hands on \u2013 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q9. Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q10. Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is truly an honor to receive this distinction and it means a great deal to our team. This award is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and creativity of everyone involved in our design projects, and it motivates us to continue pushing the boundaries of design to create innovative and impactful designs for our clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q11. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a Chicago native, I am especially proud of the winning project, HIDE+SEEK, and its recognition in the 2023 MUSE Design Awards. This modern American bar and restaurant, located in the heart of Randolph Row, embodies the comfortable elegance of Chicago. It’s an honor for my team and me to have created a lighting concept that so perfectly captures the essence of our city’s culture and vibe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q12. What was the biggest challenge with this project?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The biggest design challenge was to balance the lighting and color temperature throughout the long and narrow restaurant interior, taking into consideration the ample daylight provided by the large sash windows at the entrance. But with the help of custom millwork LED lighting details and dimmable architectural downlights, we were able to create a seamless experience for guests, regardless of where they were seated in the restaurant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q13. How has winning an Award developed your practice\/career?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This recognition not only celebrates the hard work and dedication of my team but also serves as a testament to Within Light Studio\u2019s commitment to excellence in design. We are grateful for the visibility that this award provides to our brand and will continue to push boundaries and strive for innovation in all our future endeavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q14. What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We make people happy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We create beautiful experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We transform the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q15. What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I am originally from Colombia which is known for its vibrant use of color and diverse materials. Colombian designers are not afraid to take risks and incorporate traditional elements into modern designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q16. Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I believe environmental sustainability and individual wellbeing will play an increasingly important role in lighting design. At Within Light Studio, we’re incorporating sustainable elements into our lighting design approach from utilizing energy-efficient LED lighting to designing lighting schemes that promote circadian rhythms. We’re committed to creating spaces that not only look beautiful but also support the health of the people who enjoy them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q17. If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

My advice to any student or MUSE Design Awards submitter would be to be brave, think outside the box, and never settle for mediocrity. Don’t follow the trends, but rather challenge them and strive to break paradigms. Embrace your creativity and don’t be afraid to take risks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q18. What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I highly recommend the resources and events offered by the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q19. Tell us something you have never told anyone else.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I prefer to keep the mystery alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q20. Who has inspired you in your life and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two artists who have influenced me in my career as a lighting designer are Julio LeParc and James Turrell. LeParc’s kinetic lighting installations challenge the traditional concept of lighting and inspire me to think outside the box and explore new possibilities with light. On the other hand, Turrell’s immersive color lighting installations tap into the emotional and psychological impact of light on our wellbeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q21. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Located in Chicago\u2019s Randolph Row, Hide + Seek is a modern American bar and restaurant embodying comfortable \u2026 (Read more at MUSE Design Awards<\/a>).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read more about this interview<\/a> with Rachel Ott from Canada, the Silver Winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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 [\u2026]<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":18962,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[372],"tags":[360,12,382],"yoast_head":"\nInterview with Mara Villegas<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Winner interview with Mara Villegas of Within Light Studio from United States, the Gold Winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/muse.international\/index\/interview-with-mara-villegas-from-united-states\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" 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