Seamless Solutions: Why Clients Benefit from MEP Firms with In-House Lighting Design
Lindsay Healey, Lighting Designer II
Traditionally, independent firms managed the architectural lighting design for a project, separate from the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering team. However, the industry is witnessing a shift as MEP firms integrate in-house lighting design studios. This integrated approach offers numerous advantages, from seamless coordination and tailored solutions to improved efficiency and enhanced project outcomes, ultimately delivering greater value to clients.
Integrated Design Approach with No Scope Gaps
Embedding a lighting design studio within an MEP firm fosters seamless coordination among all building systems. This integration ensures that lighting solutions are meticulously aligned with MEP system requirements, minimizing potential conflicts during installation. For instance, lighting and mechanical systems can be integrated into a comprehensive Building Management System (BMS) that automatically adjusts both lighting and HVAC systems based on occupancy, time of day, weather, or other factors. For instance, if the BMS detects high sunlight levels, it can reduce artificial lighting levels and adjust the HVAC system's temperature setpoint to balance the cooling load, ensuring that both systems are harmonized.
Moreover, an in-house team promotes a holistic project vision. From the project's inception, designers across disciplines can establish unified goals, balancing aesthetics and functionality. This cohesive approach often leads to innovative designs that might be overlooked in a fragmented setup. For example, integrating daylight harvesting techniques, where sensors adjust artificial lighting based on natural light availability, requires close collaboration between lighting designers and electrical engineers to ensure proper sensor placement and system integration for both lighting and HVAC.
An illustration showing daylight harvesting in action, with natural ventilation, air movement, and heat gains from lighting, occupants, and the sun.
The meditation room at Sarasota Memorial Hospital features color-changing lighting designed for tranquility and healing.
Innovative and Tailored Solutions
The convergence of multiple disciplines under one roof cultivates an environment ripe for innovation. Collaborative teams can explore leading-edge lighting technologies, such as dynamic human-centric lighting, circadian rhythm support, IoT data tracking, BMS integration, and more.
A visual roadmap illustrating how diverse stakeholders and technologies integrate to achieve intelligent digital workplace outcomes through data-driven systems and connected solutions.
An in-house team makes tailoring lighting solutions to a building's specific MEP infrastructure more feasible. Rather than adopting generic designs, the team can customize solutions that align with the building's unique characteristics. For instance, designers can implement advanced control systems in spaces with diverse occupant schedules that adjust lighting based on real-time occupancy data, leading to energy savings and enhanced user comfort.
Workflow Flexibility
An internal lighting design studio enhances workflow flexibility. Designers can work directly within the MEP model and participate in Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination, streamlining the design process. This proximity, daily collaboration, and communication allow real-time problem-solving and quick adjustments. It expedites decision-making and reduces the likelihood of clashes. Namely, if electrical layout changes are necessary, the in-house lighting team can promptly adjust their designs to accommodate the modification early on, leading to faster project delivery times and, ideally, fewer delays during construction, saving both time and money for the client.
Pivotal Lighting Design: A Model for Integrated Excellence
Affiliated Engineers, Inc. (AEI) exemplifies the advantages of an integrated approach by incorporating Pivotal Lighting Design within its organization. With over 20 years of project experience, Pivotal has assembled a team with diverse expertise spanning architectural engineering, architecture, interior design, and urban design. This multidisciplinary background allows them to approach projects holistically, fostering innovative solutions that seamlessly blend aesthetics, functionality, and technical precision. The team continues to evolve and sharpen their skills by participating in local chapters of various lighting design agencies such as IES, IALD, and others.
A commitment to continuing education ensures that Pivotal's team remains abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies. This dedication to professional growth translates into designs that are not only current but also forward-thinking, providing clients with lighting solutions that are both functional and cutting-edge.
Integrating in-house lighting design studios within MEP engineering firms offers many benefits, from seamless coordination and innovative solutions to enhanced workflow flexibility. Pivotal Lighting Design's successful incorporation into AEI underscores the value of this professional structure, setting a precedent for the future of integrated building design.
Pivotal Lighting Design collaborates with AEI’s Electrical team to explore innovative lighting fixtures and solutions.