Our Process

We believe that good architectural lighting design is a collaborative process. Our process revolves around helping our clients envision the space they are creating. We begin with a simple question: "What is the first thing you want people to perceive when they walk into your space?" With that image foremost in our minds, we identify and articulate how light will move through the space, determine what elements will be lighted or not lighted, and find creative solutions for the integration of light sources.

From there, our design team looks for creative ways to achieve the design goals. We communicate our ideas by using lighting diagrams and illustrations, creating computer-enhanced photographs, and by preparing study models or mockups. Next we specify the lighting equipment that meets the needs of the project's illumination requirements, budget, and maintenance program.

The implementation of a design solution is only as good as the specification of its components. Renfro Design Group believes in quality communication with the construction team as well as the client. We remain involved throughout the construction process -- answering questions, and if required, making ourselves available for on-site focus and system tuning of the original design.

Our Tools

Virtual

Renfro Design Group is a firm that embraces computer technology. Richard Renfro believes in their power not only to calculate, but also to communicate. Computers are used in every facet of design analysis, presentation and production. Using the latest in radiosity and ray-tracing techniques, we often conduct "computerized mockups" and lighting calculations. Entire lighting schemes can be diagrammed, illustrated and specified electronically.

Physical

As enticing as renderings can be, often there is no substitute for "the real thing". The interaction of light with building form and material is often too complex for a computer to accurately simulate. In these situations we often create physical mockups of luminaires and even entire parts of buildings to study these interactions. We have facilities in-house to produce many of these mockups.

Experiential

Mockups, computer calculations, and renderings; these are all tools we use to produce a good design, but these tools are of little value without experience. All of our work, all of our data, all of our renderings and test results, are constantly tempered by the experience of Mr. Renfro and our staff.