This story was originally published in Architectural Lighting.
New Jersey-based lighting design firm Illumination Arts, led by principals Faith Baum and Ken Douglas, and known for their work on bridge and infrastructure lighting projects, has joined HLB Lighting Design. The acquisition will allow both firms to continue offering expert lighting design services to an international client base, collaborate on projects, and provide clients with a full range of lighting and daylighting design services.
“We’re thrilled to unite with such a forward–thinking design firm and to have our entire staff under the HLB brand. HLB has been a leader for many ears, setting the bar for professionalism and economy of scale in the architectural lighting industry,” said Faith Baum, principal and owner of Illumination Arts. “We believe there is strength in numbers, and together, we are raising the bar for what our clients expect from professional lighting designers.”
The shared values of the two firms made the acquisition a logical partnership. The merger also means that HLB is now the largest women-owned architectural lighting design firm in North America. “A common culture is instrumental when bringing two firms together. HLB and IA share a commitment to design excellence and our collective client base will be well served,” said Barbara Horton, president and CEO of HLB Lighting Design. “IA is recognized internationally as an innovator in the design of iconic bridges and this elevates the depth and expertise of our infrastructure practice throughout our seven offices around the country.”
The addition of Baum and Douglas to the HLB senior design leadership sets up a team rich in lighting knowledge and experience. “This is great news for our respective clients. It provides an expanded pool of experienced designers to bring their ideas and knowledge to bear on projects. At the same time, the geographic reach of the combined firms will facilitate expansion of existing client relationships and allow for more in person interaction with clients spread out across the country,” said Ken Douglas, principal of Illumination Arts.
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