Design process

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with all other parties, ensuring smooth collaboration and making the experience effortless for our clients

At Akarui, our lighting design process follows the RIBA Plan of Work. In the Concept stage we explore initial ideas to align lighting with the project's vision and requirements. During Design Development, we refine these concepts, selecting fixtures and coordinating with the architectural design. In the Technical phase, we produce detailed specifications, ensuring compliance with all regulations. Finally, in the Realisation stage, we oversee installation, testing, and adjustments to guarantee optimal lighting performance.

The Design Process

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concept

Crafting and tailoring light to your space. Ideas begin to take form. This phase is about exploring the potential of light in your project, blending creativity with practicality to develop a design that reflects your vision and enhances your environment. During this stage, we focus on understanding how light interacts with the architecture and materials of your space. We consider how natural and artificial light will work together to create the right ambiance, whether that means a warm, inviting glow or a crisp, modern brightness. Our goal is to develop a lighting plan that not only meets your functional needs but also elevates the overall aesthetic.

development

Aligned with RIBA Stage 3, we translate the conceptual design into a detailed, actionable plan. This involves creating precise lighting plans that specify the placement and type of each light source, ensuring they enhance the space’s architecture and ambiance. We meticulously select and specify fixtures that align with the design aesthetic and meet technical standards. Alongside this, we coordinate timelines with the project team, ensuring the lighting installation integrates smoothly with the overall construction schedule.

technical

In this phase, we refine the design into a fully detailed technical package, ensuring it meets both aesthetic goals and practical requirements. After an initial review, we draft precise technical documents, specifying installation details, wiring layouts, and fixture placements. Each element is carefully revised to align with the project’s standards and to facilitate seamless implementation. This phase ensures that the design vision is fully realised, translating concept into structured, executable plans.

realisation

Lighting design moves from planning to execution. This phase is where the detailed plans and specifications come to life, with a focus on precision and quality. We finalise all technical details, ensuring every aspect of the design is prepared for implementation. This includes refining wiring diagrams, control systems, and installation methods to ensure seamless integration with the overall construction process.

our services

akarui is a versatile and dynamic lighting studio renowned for its commitment to excellence across a wide range of projects

final design pack contents

fulL LIGHTING plans

Detailed plans illustrating lighting layouts, fixture placements, and intended ambiance for each area of the project.

Fitting Schedules

A comprehensive list of selected light fittings with specifications, quantities, placement, and an installation timing schedule for smooth project coordination.

Load Schedule

Electrical load specifications, ensuring adequate power distribution and efficiency for the entire lighting system.

Detail Drawings

Precise, scaled drawings outlining installation requirements, fixture placements, and integration with architectural elements.

Equipment Space Planning Schedules

Allocation and organisation of space requirements for lighting equipment, ensuring effortless integration with other systems.

Wiring Schematics

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for installers, detailing connections, circuits, and power sources for all lighting elements.

Compliance documents for planning and building control

Documentation verifying that all lighting specifications meet planning and building regulations for safe, compliant installation.

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consultation service

We offer a remote consultation service for small projects, ideal for one to two rooms like a kitchen or extension—providing expert guidance while saving you time and money.

what projects are suitable?

This service is perfect for smaller projects involving one to two rooms, such as a kitchen, extension, master suite, reception room, garden, or home cinema. We also support retrofits and custom light fitting designs.

what do we offer?

The consultation includes a Zoom meeting with a lighting designer to discuss your vision, a hand-drawn plan detailing light positions, circuits, and switches for your builder or electrician, and a curated list of product options for light fittings and switches that align with your project and budget.

what do you need?

To prepare for the consultation, you'll need architectural plans of the space (to scale), an idea of the desired style and colour scheme, and any available photos of the area, though photos are not essential.

what's not included?

This service does not provide generic lighting schemes or specify standard light fittings from wholesalers or DIY stores. The focus is on creating a personalised lighting design that enhances your space.

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