Article: Expert Insights: Lighting Hotel Public Spaces
Expert Insights: Lighting Hotel Public Spaces
When it comes to illuminating hotel public spaces, each project presents unique challenges and opportunities. Public areas, from lobbies to hallways, set the tone for a guest’s experience and require a thoughtful approach to achieve the desired ambiance.
In this guide, we uncover key elements in crafting successful hotel lighting schemes for public areas.
Creating Unique Experiences
The hotel lobby is the first impression guests encounter, symbolising the quality and style of the establishment. Statement lighting in these areas does more than brighten a space – it creates a memorable impression.
Utilising exquisite materials like glass, crystal, and alabaster, Northern Lights' bespoke lighting solutions bring elegance and individuality to public spaces. Hotels with vaulted ceilings or open layouts can benefit from dramatic, large-scale installations that set the tone for a luxurious experience.
Example:
At Oatlands Park Hotel, we handcrafted a bespoke brass and glass chandelier, formed from individual cylinders for the hotel lobby. Each hand-finished piece was carefully affixed to the tiered frame, and suspended below the skylight, creating a stunning focal point that enhances the grandeur of the space.
Maintaining Concept Consistency
Lighting must harmonise with the hotel’s aesthetic and maintain brand consistency. We achieve this through custom finishes, bespoke patinas, and carefully matched materials.
“From hand-applied artisan finishes to project-specific RAL colour matching, we ensure that all design elements work seamlessly together,” explains Michael Jackson, Head of Design at Northern Lights.
This tailored approach allows designers to connect different public areas, such as lobbies, lounges, and reception spaces, while preserving a cohesive design language.
Architectural Lighting
Architectural features within a hotel offer a unique opportunity to integrate lighting as both a functional and artistic element. Rather than simply illuminating a space, bespoke lighting can enhance the architectural story, highlight structural details, and create dynamic focal points.
Strategically placed luminaires can draw attention to grand archways, intricate ceiling details, or dramatic columns—elevating them beyond their structural purpose to become an integral part of the interior design narrative. Layering light through recessed fixtures, uplighting, and decorative pendants allows for a play of light and shadow, adding depth and drama to a space.
Example:
At Hilton London Croydon, we developed a bespoke statement light that transforms a central pillar into an experiential focal point, merging function and artistry right within the hotel’s architecture.
In Hilton Baku, we crafted a 25 ft high glass drops installation for the atrium. Together with the suspension, the chandelier spans and connects several floors, whilst drawing attention to the impressive height of the building. Thousands of hand-slumped and curved glass rods allow natural light to shine through, creating a fluid feature light that despite its size, doesn’t overpower the space.
Incorporating Natural Light
Natural light plays a critical role in hotel public spaces. Careful attention is given to how light interacts with the space throughout the day.
By balancing natural and artificial light sources, designers can create versatile atmospheres. Cooler tones maximise daylight during breakfast hours, while warmer, dimmable lighting promotes relaxation in the evening.
Example:
At Municipal Liverpool, Northern Lights collaborated with KONCEPT ID and lighting designer Luke Artinstall to craft a scheme that complements the natural light flow, delivering a dynamic and inviting space.
Adapting to Multi-Functional Layouts
Modern hotel designs often merge lobbies, reception areas, and lounges into open-plan spaces. These multi-functional layouts require adaptable lighting to suit different times of day and activities.
Lighting controls let staff adjust brightness and tone to suit different guest needs and activities—whether it’s energising breakfast spaces or relaxed evening lounges.
Elevating Hallways
Hallways connect guests to key areas of the hotel, and lighting must balance functionality with ambiance. Balancing brightness and colour temperature creates pathways that are adequately lit – without being too bright – and welcoming, to ensure comfort and spatial awareness while maintaining the hotel’s luxury positioning.
Example:
At Cottonmill Spa, nestled within Sopwell House, we created custom version of our Luca wall lights for serene corridor lighting leading to the spa, creating an inviting atmosphere that aligns with the hotel’s luxurious branding.
Investing in Quality
In high-demand hospitality settings, lighting must combine durability with design integrity. Using robust materials ensures longevity while simplifying maintenance and repair.
Northern Lights’ commitment to functional beauty means designs are not only visually stunning but also practical, meeting the operational needs and unique demands of hotel public spaces.
Balancing Lighting Functions
A successful lighting scheme layers multiple lighting types:
● Task Lighting: Functional solutions for reception desks or guest reading corners.
● Ambient Lighting: Chandeliers, pendants, and wall lights that provide warmth and depth.
● Accent Lighting: Highlighting architectural details, décor, or artwork.
By layering diffused and directional lighting, Northern Lights creates harmonious schemes that enhance the visual appeal and functionality of public spaces.
Bringing It All Together
Crafting a balanced lighting scheme for hotel public spaces requires expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to design excellence. With over 37 years of experience, Northern Lights continues to set the standard for bespoke lighting, delivering solutions that blend artistry with practicality.
If you’re looking to illuminate your next project with tailored, luxurious lighting schemes designed for hospitality excellence, explore our Bespoke Lighting Design service . Alternatively, browse our exquisite lighting collections below.
