Lighting Design Collaboration for Design and Disability exhibition
Location: Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), London
Lead Lighting Designer: Lucy Record (Record Lighting)
Objective: Collaborate on the lighting design during Stage 2 (Concept Design) and Stage 3 (Developed Design) for Design and Disability exhibition displayed at the Victoria and Albert Museum. The aim was to create a lighting approach that supports accessible interpretation, highlights key objects, and contributes to an inclusive and welcoming visitor environment.
Scope:
. Lighting Design Collaboration (Stages 2 and 3): Worked closely with Lucy to establish a coherent lighting strategy that supports the display’s themes around accessibility, innovation, and inclusive design. Contributed to the progression from early concept ideas to fully developed design proposals aligned with museum standards.
. Object and Material Consideration: Developed lighting solutions that enhance clarity and comprehension of small-scale objects, prototypes, and material samples. Considered surface finishes, conservation requirements, and tactile elements to ensure lighting supported both visual and physical accessibility.
. Accessibility-Led Approaches: Incorporated lighting choices that reduce glare, improve contrast where needed, and support ease of navigation for all visitors. Ensured that the design complemented accessible interpretation tools and contributed to a comfortable and equitable gallery experience.
. Integration with Display Environment: Ensured that lighting worked harmoniously with the exhibition’s spatial layout and graphic design, reinforcing the messaging and allowing visitors to engage with the content in a clear and focused manner.
Outcome:
A thoughtful and purposeful lighting design that supports the themes of Exhibition Design and Disability, enhancing object visibility and interpretive clarity while contributing to an accessible and inclusive display environment.
For more information about the exhibition, visit V&A Design and Disability
For additional reading about Lights Up days, visit Shinning a light on accessibility in exhibitions
*Photograph credits: Victoria & Albert Museum
