Episode 129 - Clients Don’t Hire Us to Repeat Repeat Repeat with Emad Hasan
“Lighting controls aren’t just switches — they’re part of the user experience.”
In this episode, lighting designer Emad Hasan, founder of Lux Foundry, argues that lighting designers should have a much bigger role in lighting controls. His reasoning? If the controls don't work, users blame the lighting design anyway.
💡 Key takeaways:
Lighting controls shape how people interact with a space—not just how it looks.
Many engineers handle controls as a requirement, while designers understand the user experience.
The biggest project scope gaps are often lighting controls, emergency lighting, and code compliance.
Hospitality projects demand tighter control because dimming quality directly impacts the atmosphere.
The industry still struggles with outdated analog control methods and slow adoption of digital standards.
Wireless controls are promising, especially in historic buildings, but aren't yet a universal solution.
Adaptability is critical: every project, client, and market requires a different approach.
Emad's dream? Every lighting design firm would have an in-house lighting controls expert.
Bottom line: Great lighting isn't just about fixtures—it's about how people experience and control the space.
Connect with Emad:
https://www.lux-foundry.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emad-hasan
Sponsor: MaxLite, maxlite.com, @maxlite
The Lighting Controls Podcast is an official podcast of The National Association of Innovative Lighting Distributors.
Sponsored By MaxLite