Northern Lights has established itself as a leading creative force on the lighting design platform, and we caught up with Managing Director Donna Bruce to dig a little deeper into the role lighting can play in creating those memorable moments in hotel design…
With its bespoke creations playing a central role in elevating designs, from boldly engineered statement chandeliers to the more focussed and functional bedside illuminations, Northern Lights has fine-tuned the art of transforming spaces throughlighting. With projects as diverse as the OWO through to Somewhere By Nico, it continues to form close collaborative relationships with some of the most influential and high profile interior designers and architects in the industry. In this conversation with Donna Bruce we look back on the highlights of 2024 to uncover what makes the Northern Lights offering so unique, while looking forward to the trends and plans for the year ahead.
Image credit: Northern Lights
Hotel Designs: What role does lighting play in creating personalised or immersive guest experiences?
Donna Bruce: Lighting plays a pivotal role in storytelling within hotels. At Northern Lights, we collaborate closely with designers to ensure the lighting enhances the intended mood and atmosphere. Our approach to lighting design brings these spaces to life in a way that resonates with the guest on an emotional level. By blending materials, textures, and advanced technology, we create lighting that not only serves a functional purpose but becomes part of the immersive experience. Some of our projects have featured lighting that directly mimics natural elements—clouds, rippling water, or delicate leaves—to evoke a sense of connection and wonder. It’s about creating moments guests will remember long after their stay.
HD: How do you balance traditional craftsmanship with the demands of a tech-led future in the lighting industry?
DB: The future of design lies in the fusion of tradition and innovation. While cutting-edge technology is a cornerstone of our process —delivering precision and efficiency — it’s the human touch that defines us. Our team, many of whom have honed their craft for over 30 years, brings an unparalleled level of ingenuity and creativity that technology alone could never achieve. It’s exceptionally important to keep traditional craftsmanship alive and inspire the next generation to be part of this in an increasingly tech-led world. Northern Lights are proud to preserve the art of handmade lighting, ensuring every piece tells a story of authenticity and care.
Image credit: Northern Lights
HD: What’s the secret to designing focal points that create unique and memorable hotel environments?
DB: Great design always starts with purpose. Focal points in lighting are more than just visual anchors—they’re storytellers. For us, it’s about working with designers to create pieces that connect with the space’s narrative, whether it’s a sculptural installation inspired by local culture or a delicate fixture that captures the elegance of a boutique hotel. A statement chandelier in a hotel lobby can be a striking symbol of the brand’s identity. By combining bold concepts with bespoke craftsmanship, we ensure every focal point not only commands attention but enhances the guest’s overall experience.
HD: What lighting trends or shifts do you predict for 2025?
DB: In 2025, we see a continued emphasis on personalisation. Designers are looking for lighting solutions that are adaptable, bespoke, and aligned with their unique vision. In addition to our fully bespoke lighting service, our Signature collections allow customisation, giving designers the freedom to experiment with materials, finishes, and sizes. In terms of aesthetics, unique textured finishes, warm tones, and biophilic influences are growing in popularity as they evoke a sense of comfort and authenticity.
Image credit: Michael Franke
HD: What about lighting in hospitality wellness design?
DB: Thoughtful lighting design can help create spaces that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and a sense of well-being. We’re constantly exploring biophilic-inspired designs that integrate natural materials and organic forms, enhancing guests’ connection to nature. This approach goes beyond aesthetics—it’s a psychological approach to lighting that positively impacts the mind and body, aligning with the increasing focus on wellness in hospitality.
Incorporating softer, warmer lighting in wellness areas fosters a calming environment, altering the mood and feel of the space. Handcrafted lighting with organic textures and natural finishes resonates with wellness themes. Using materials like frosted glass, alabaster, or incorporating warm, natural patinas within metal adds tactile richness while contributing to a serene and grounded ambiance.
HD: How do you incorporate green practices into your lighting solutions?
DB: Since 2017, we’ve been a zero-to-landfill business, which is a huge step forward in reducing waste. But we’re also thinking long-term, designing products with longevity and repairability in mind. This means using modular components that can be easily replaced or recycled, reducing the need for entire fixtures to be discarded. We’re actively exploring materials and techniques that reduce environmental impact without compromising our clients’ creativity. For us, luxury and responsibility go hand in hand.
Image credit: Northern Lights
HD: How can designers balance luxury aesthetics with tight budgets in lighting design?
DB: Balancing luxury aesthetics with budgets is both a challenge and an opportunity for creativity. We specialize in designing solutions that align with the vision while staying mindful of the overall budget. Our approach involves prioritizing investment in key statement designs, while complementing these with cost-efficient pieces from our curated collections.
We guide on the use of alternative materials that maintain aesthetics without compromising budgets. For example, a high-impact brass finish can replicate the opulence of solid brass while reducing costs and weight-related installation challenges. Early collaboration is key — we work closely with designers from the outset to align designs with budgets and timelines; being able to spot complexities or challenges before they arise is one of our key strengths. This thorough approach ensures every project achieves considered balance, proving that true luxury is rooted in smart, creative solutions.
HD: Reflecting on 2024, what has been your proudest moment?
DB: 2024 was a transformative year for Northern Lights. Securing UL certification was a pivotal moment, enabling us to bring our expertise and a fresh perspective to the US market. We’ve rebranded, released new product designs, and launched a new website; ultimately making it easier for clients to explore our capabilities and specify products for their projects. I’m humbled that we’ve worked with some huge global brands — of which we can’t mention due to NDA’s — across incredible projects. These collaborations challenged us to innovate in unique ways, from sculptural paper parrot modelling to mesh cloud prototypes that facilitated new techniques. Each of these moments reflects our ingenuity and out-of-the-box approach – something I’m immensely proud of.
Northern Lights is one of our Recommended Suppliers and regularly features in our Supplier News section of the website. If you are interested in becoming one of our Recommended Suppliers, please email Katy Phillips.
Main image credit: Michael Franke
