Fourth Dimension Lighting Design started as an interior design practice in the 1980s and later became fascinated with the possibilities of lighting for architecture and interiors. In the past 15 years, whilst they still offer interior design services, they now focus on lighting design and supply specialising in residential, hospitality, church and retail projects.
Lighting is a crucial element in the design and decoration of a building and their ethos is about respecting the history and materials of a building or interior and designing a lighting scheme that will enhance and define the architecture and architectural features.
Interior Design and Lighting Design
"Lighting design is not so much about a style as about a way of seeing spaces within the context of good lighting. We, therefore, ask 'What do you want to see?' The layering of light using available surfaces has been enabled by the revolution in LED lighting products and enables us to illuminate spaces in subtle and creative ways which enhances the architecture and the interior design.
We consider both architectural lighting and decorative lighting as two distinct elements that need to work in tandem to create both practical and aesthetic design. We are as happy using the latest in cutting edge LED lighting as using classically-inspired decorative fittings. When combined, the effects can be dramatic and pleasing."
"We have recently completed a project in Boston, Massachusetts, USA which was carried out remotely thanks to the ability to communicate on Zoom and with CAD drawings.
The project was for a large room in an old brownstone building in downtown Boston, which is used as a music room. The building, which was built in a neoclassical style in the 19th century, is adorned with columns, pilasters and coffered ceilings.
Before we started, the only lighting was four inappropriate pendants more suitable for use in a railway station. We, therefore, devised a scheme of layered lighting discreetly hidden within the structure of the room such that numerous effects and scenes can be selected by the client. The lighting included hidden strip lighting, miniature downlights, uplights set into the floor and picture lights – each fitting selected for a purpose, so as to enhance the interior and the spaces within the room.
Due to the fact that the USA does not have a listing system for buildings as in the UK, the client was not so concerned about visible fittings as we are. Eventually, we persuaded them to embrace a more subtle approach which involved a search for fittings that satisfied both the client and our design ethos.
Samples of the fittings were tested on-site to ensure that their light output and effect would work as intended and satisfy the client’s brief. This we believe has been achieved."
