4 minute read
Q&A: Social Light, New Zealand
In this exclusive Q&A, we explore the refined vision of Kat and Phil, the proud owners of Social Light. With an acute awareness of a niche in the market, they seized a remarkable opportunity to elevate lighting in New Zealand. Kat, an accomplished interior designer, is driven by a passion for sourcing beautiful, ethically crafted lighting solutions, while Phil, a seasoned electrician, has discovered his own enthusiasm for the art of illumination.
Together, they established capsühl, a brand dedicated to making exquisite lighting accessible to their clients. Now, they are thrilled to present a curated collection of premium designer lights from around the globe through Social Light. Their unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and quality is matched only by their dedication to staying at the forefront of international design trends.
How does Social Light define excellence in the lighting industry, & what steps do you take to ensure this standard is met for every customer?
Business is surprisingly simple at its fundamental level: deliver high-quality products & make the purchasing process straightforward for our customers. That is our philosophy.
We work with some of the finest lighting brands in the world, & we look after our customers by being friendly, honest, and educational. We are committed to upholding our promise & ensuring we always deliver on what we say we will.
What can customers expect when they work with Social Light from the initial consultation to the final installation?
We prioritise a personalised experience for each client. Our goal is to educate & share as much of our expertise as possible, ensuring that each client feels confident in their choices. We are committed to achieving the best possible results.
Furthermore, we work closely with Renee from RAD Lighting Design, who is completely independent, allowing her to specify the best lights for each client, even if that means sourcing from another supplier.
What current trends in lighting do you find most exciting, and how does Social Light stay ahead of these trends?
The most exciting trend is the new generation of LED lights. The reliability, longevity, & light quality of built-in (integrated) LED lights mean that replaceable light bulbs may become a thing of the past.
As homeowners seek niche lighting options, we constantly explore new brands, attend lighting fairs, and monitor overseas trends to offer the best in contemporary lighting design.
How does Social Light approach sustainability in its lighting solutions? Do you offer eco-friendly options?
Lighting is evolving, and with the release of a new generation of LED lights, you can expect them to consume a fraction of the power that was once used by traditional lighting; they also last much longer, creating less waste.
We seek to source from brands that are ethical and sustainable. We are proud to say our LIM lights are manufactured in New Zealand, and our capsühl lights are produced in state-of-the-art factories in China, which we visit regularly.
What are the future goals for Social Light? Are there any upcoming product launches or expansions you can share with us?
Given the strong demand for exceptional lighting throughout New Zealand, we are excited to reveal a new showroom in Auckland and a collaborative space with LMA Timber in Wanaka in the coming months, alongside our working studio here in Cambridge.
Our unique product range is continually evolving, and we are currently planning the introduction of several new brands.
What factors should homeowners consider when choosing lighting options?
One of the most important pieces of advice is to make your lighting decisions early in the building process rather than waiting until the end.
Given the relatively small New Zealand market and the challenges of distance, the selection of readily available lighting options can be limited. While we can source remarkable lights from around the globe, it may require additional time.
Truly exceptional products are often made to order and shipped from distant locations, so planning ahead is essential.
And lastly, what is the best piece of advice for homeowners looking to add flair with their lighting?
Invest time and budget in a professional lighting plan.
Many electricians may not specialise in lighting design, and there are numerous factors to consider, such as placement, style, and the effects of lighting on your space.
With a well-thought-out plan, you can create a stunning symphony of illumination in your home, evoking a range of emotions and enhancing the overall atmosphere.
