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Interiors

Why Lighting Design Is Becoming Central to Interior Design 

March 31, 2026
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By 
Caryll Ong

From residential spaces to civic structures, lighting dictates the mood of a space. It controls the visual dynamics of an interior, serving as a guiding tool that highlights key design elements, including materials and textures.

Lampscaping: How to Light up Your Home like a Pro.
Photographed by Ed Simon

Related Reading: Lampscaping: How to Light up Your Home like a Pro

Regulating the Mood: Natural and Artificial Light in Interior Spaces

Lighting design involves the intentional selection and positioning of light sources—such as lamps and fixtures—to evoke a specific atmosphere. In interior design, lighting contributes to both aesthetics and functionality. Approaches vary, from layered lighting to natural and accent lighting.

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Exploring the Designer-Inspired Interiors of Hotel 8.
Photographed by Jar Concengco
Exploring the Designer-Inspired Interiors of Hotel 8.
Photographed by Jar Concengco

Located in Bacolod, Cafe Bobs uses lighting to reflect the vibrant spirit of its environment. Headed by Christine Sicangco of Lighting Design Inc., its lighting design aligns with the interior’s overall design language.

view of the upper mezzanine of Cafe Bobs designed by Larawan Ink in Bacolod.
Photographed by Ed Simon

The custom laser-cut panels featuring the cafe’s logo serve as a key architectural element, dividing the space into distinct sections. Light filters through these screen dividers, casting textured shadows that add depth and pattern.

light filters through laser cut panels to create a pattern on the walls and floor at Cafe Bobs.
Photographed by Ed Simon
light filters through laser cut panels to create a pattern on the walls and floor at Cafe Bobs.
Photographed by Ed Simon

In the evening, the cafe takes on a different character through lighting. Track lighting highlights the deli, bakery, and coffee counter, emphasizing both display and task areas. For functionality, vertical illumination of walls and menu boards enhances ordering efficiency.

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Lighting at a Large Scale: The Mactan Cebu International Airport 

In Lapu-Lapu City, the Mactan Cebu International Airport draws from the ambiance of luxury resorts. Awarded at the World Architecture Festival in Amsterdam in the “Completed Buildings–Transport” category, its architecture is defined by its curved wooden structure.

Light Plan Inc. was responsible for the airport’s lighting design. Principal and Founder, IDr. Jinkie De Jesus stated in a BluPrint interview, “It’s an art, it’s a science, it’s storytelling at the same time. It’s just an incredible and tangible medium that really makes an impact.”

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Signify used a total of 8,000 LED lightpoints throughout the airport, with the warm lighting complementing the natural hues and texture of the arch. Photographed by Patrick Kasingsing

The departure level, with its expansive wooden ceiling, features high arches illuminated by narrow-beam uplights. For general lighting, small downlights were used. In the morning, natural daylight filters into the interior through skylights along the roof. At night, carefully calibrated artificial lighting creates a warm yet grand atmosphere suited to its millions of yearly passengers

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Related Reading: Airport fit for a queen (city): The Mactan Cebu International Airport Terminal 2

Article Header Photographed by Ed Simon.

lighting design

Why Lighting Design Is Becoming Central to Interior Design 

From residential spaces to civic structures, lighting dictates the mood of a space. It controls the visual dynamics of an interior, serving as a guiding tool that highlights key design elements, including materials and textures. Related Reading: Lampscaping: How to Light up Your Home like a Pro Regulating the Mood: Natural and Artificial Light in […]

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Caryll Ong
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