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For Harithra Navaratnam, lighting design is about more than illuminating a space. It’s about understanding how design decisions influence energy performance, functionality, and the way people experience the built environment. In this Q&A, she reflects on the projects, mentorship, and lessons that helped shape her internship experience.

What inspired you to pursue a career in lighting design?

My background is in architecture, and during my studies, I focused on building performance, energy efficiency, and sustainability. While studying those topics, I realized that lighting plays an important role in how buildings perform, both from an energy perspective and in how people experience a space.

After graduation, I worked as a project architect for two years. During that time, I kept asking myself why we make certain lighting decisions. I didn’t want to simply place fixtures in a space. I wanted to understand the reasoning behind the design and the technical aspects that support it. That curiosity led me to pursue lighting studies, and that’s what eventually brought me into the lighting design field.

Was there a site visit that left a lasting impression on you?

One site visit that stands out was a transportation terminal renovation project.

What I found most valuable was realizing that a site visit is not only about visiting the project. There is a lot of preparation beforehand and a lot of work afterward.

During the visit, we took measurements, documented existing conditions, met with the client, and discussed possible improvements. We also looked for ways to improve lighting by focusing on making existing systems more efficient and effective.

Seeing the project in person helped me better understand how design decisions are influenced by the actual environment and the client’s goals.

What’s been the biggest learning experience during your internship?

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is how to think through alternative solutions. Design is not only about creating an idea. It’s also about understanding what to do when a product is unavailable, when a budget changes, or when project requirements evolve.

My team has spent a lot of time explaining different options and helping me understand how to achieve the same design intent through different approaches. That process has taught me a lot about problem-solving and flexibility in design.

How have experienced team members helped you grow professionally?

My team has been incredibly supportive throughout the internship. They don’t simply assign tasks and expect me to complete them. They take the time to explain the reasoning behind the work and answer my questions.

I also appreciate that they focus on skills that will help me throughout my career, whether that is project communication, presentation techniques, technical design knowledge, or client interactions.

Even more, I’ve been able to be a part of Salas O’Brien’s internship Learning Series, office-led educational sessions, and Lunch & Learns. Learning from experts through these experiences was extremely beneficial in helping me develop a broader understanding of the lighting industry, stay informed about emerging products and technologies, and gain knowledge that will support my professional growth and career development.