ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Lighting Design Trends: Discreet Fixtures, Hospitality, and Sustainability

architecture-design · 2026-06-15

The May-June edition of The Architect’s Newspaper highlights expert opinions from various lighting firms, including TM Lighting and HOK, on emerging lighting trends. A notable move towards minimalist styles is observed, emphasizing discreet fixtures for a cohesive lighting atmosphere. Warmer lighting options, reminiscent of hospitality environments, are increasingly being adopted in spaces such as airports and offices, reflecting a desire for comfort post-COVID. Additionally, innovations like HLB's versatile plug-and-play systems for labs are featured, while L’Observatoire International showcases eco-friendly designs at the Flatiron Building. Energy efficiency remains a pressing concern, aligning with sustainability standards like LEED.

Key facts

  • The Architect’s Newspaper May/June issue covers lighting design trends.
  • Discreet fixtures are trending due to architectural minimalism.
  • Hospitality-style lighting is used in locker rooms, airports, retail, and offices.
  • Color temperatures are dropping to 1800K for linear-tape light.
  • HLB designs flexible plug-and-play systems for automated labs.
  • L’Observatoire International illuminated the Flatiron Building with shielded fixtures.
  • Sustainability benchmarks include LEED, Living Building Challenge, and AIA 2030 Challenge.
  • Circadian lighting is viewed skeptically as a gimmick by designers.

Entities

Artists

  • B. Alex Miller
  • Alina Ainza
  • Christine Vandover
  • Paola Pietrantoni
  • Carrie Hawley
  • Hervé Descottes
  • Bien Jacinto
  • Diana Budds

Institutions

  • The Architect’s Newspaper
  • TM Lighting
  • HOK
  • HLB Lighting Design
  • Studio Atomic
  • L’Observatoire International
  • Loop Lighting
  • Flatiron Building
  • LEED
  • Living Building Challenge
  • AIA 2030 Challenge
  • American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)

Locations

  • Brooklyn
  • New York

Sources