September 20, 2023

5 Big Questions: IALD | Christopher Knowlton

We catch up with the CEO of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) and discuss the lighting design profession, sustainability and LightFair.

In his role as CEO of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), Christopher Knowlton works with the IALD President, Board of Directors and staff to nurture the lighting design community, make new connections and provide leadership in the field of professional architectural lighting design.

Founded in 1969 and based in Chicago, Illinois, the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) is an internationally recognized non-profit organization dedicated to supporting a network of 1,500 independent lighting design professionals who satisfy its rigorous qualification process.

The IALD strives to set the global standard for lighting design excellence by promoting the advancement and recognition of professional lighting designers.

Topics we explore:

1.	What regional or cultural differences in the actual practice of lighting design can be observed for various architectural lighting projects across the globe? (1:11)
2.	What are one or two of the most prevalent challenges facing lighting designers today? (3:28)
2a.	Follow-up: What is more of a driving force behind sustainable design: owners/end users or legislation? (5:11)
3.	IALD Enlighten Americas is coming up November 2 - 4. What exciting things should attendees expect to experience in Banff? (6:58)
4.	What can be done to cause even more IALD designers to attend LightFair? (9:05)
5.	How are lower LightFair revenues affecting IALD operations? What other revenue streams are bolstering the organization? (10:52)
BONUS:	What will be Christopher's adult beverage of choice at the Friday night Enlighten Americas shindig? (13:05)