The Las Vegas Convention Center recently played host to LightFair 2023, an influential event within the architectural and lighting industries, held from May 4 to 8.
Partnered with the International Association of Lighting Designers and the Illuminating Engineering Society, LightFair is recognized as one of North America’s largest lighting events, featuring over 500 exhibiting companies.
The showcase brought together designers, manufacturers, educators, and various professionals to explore cutting-edge lighting design and technology while emphasizing the latest trends in the sector.
A prominent theme emerging from the event was a return to organic materials in lighting design.
Designer Marteen Moore from Marteen Moore Interior Planning noted the rising popularity of natural elements, including bamboo and rattan, used alongside metals such as black, silver, and gold.
According to Moore, the aesthetic of lighting is evolving, with designs becoming more unique and organic.
“Hand-blown glass that resembles deformed teardrop shapes is being favored for its beauty in imperfection,” she said, emphasizing a shift towards a more life-like representation in lighting.
Despite the push for unique designs, the fondness for traditional fixtures like chandeliers and table lamps remains strong.
Moore elaborated, “I’m working on a multi-pendant fixture for a dining room. It features a large top plate with several pendants at varying heights, crafted from clear glass for unobstructed views, presenting a fresh alternative to standard chandeliers.”
Additionally, the role of smart technology in lighting was a significant point of discussion at the event.
Moore explained how advances in lighting technology are redefining the Kelvin scale, which measures light color temperature.
Typically, a lower Kelvin number indicates a warmer, more yellow light, while higher numbers imply a cooler, bluer light.
“People appreciate the flexibility of adjusting the Kelvin scale—transitioning from 2700K, a soft yellow light, to 5000K, which resembles bright, fluorescent light,” she shared.
Most attendees seem to prefer lighting in the 3000K to 4000K range, giving them the ability to personalize their lighting experience.
Another highlight at LightFair was the display of new glass processing technologies, including tempering, insulation, lamination, and coating.
John Dunia, a Nevada representative for Venicio Architectural Art Glass, pointed out the revival of decorative mirrors and modern techniques that enhance their visual appeal.
He mentioned that the perception of antique mirrors, often associated with mid-century styles, is evolving with these contemporary approaches.
“New techniques allow for the addition of diverse colors, giving mirrors a modern and unique appearance,” Dunia explained.
Trends also included the innovative use of fabric shears laminated between glass, as well as the emerging concept of photo classic glass, which incorporates photographs for an artistic touch.
Dunia described this process: “We align the fabric or image within the design, creating a stunning layered effect that allows visibility through the glass.”
The excitement of LightFair lies in the collaboration with designers, aiming to bring their creative visions to life through glass production.
As the event concluded, anticipation grew for LightFair’s upcoming return to Las Vegas in 2027.
To learn more about the event, visit lightfair.us.messefrankfurt.com.
image source from:https://www.reviewjournal.com/homes/real-estate-millions/lightfair-shines-a-light-on-las-vegas-3382867/