Episode 2: Jumping over Dollars to Pick Up Nickels - Part 1

Welcome to the second episode of Lighting Matters, hosted by Lisa Reed of Reed Burkett Lighting Design, and Avraham (Avi) Mor of Morlights. Our special guest today is Derek Barnwell, from Available Light. Derek reveals the invaluable role of relationships in the lighting sector. Available Light’s commitment to customer service and innovative products has been a game-changer in lighting design, and Derek's insights will offer you a fresh perspective on collaborative success. Derek sheds light on the critical importance of transparent communication and effective collaboration among designers, manufacturers, and representatives. Hear firsthand how his experience as a rep has equipped him with unique insights into managing specifications and maintaining equitable relationships. We'll also discuss how remote work has transformed industry dynamics and the necessity of clear protocols to honor the time and efforts of local reps. Join us for an episode packed with practical advice and insider knowledge that no lighting design professional should miss. 
 
Derek Barnwell, Assoc. IALD, Managing Principal, Raleigh Studio/Available Light is a seasoned lighting pro with over 21 years of experience in lighting system design across museum, architectural, and entertainment sectors. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering and Technology from Wake Technical College, Raleigh NC. Derek's career spans roles at Design & Production in Lorton VA, where he managed lighting design and show control for diverse projects. He has also contributed significantly to the architectural lighting industry, serving in software/marketing roles and as a manufacturer's representative. Derek's expertise integrates creative, technical, and logistical insights, evident in his contributions to landmark projects like the National Museum of the Marine Corps, BB King Museum, and the Liberty Science Center renovation. 
 
Available Light brings together a diverse team with extensive expertise in architecture, theater, computer automation, lighting control, interface design, equipment specification, and special events production. Their comprehensive services encompass every phase of lighting design, from master planning and documentation to final equipment adjustment and maintenance scheduling. They excel in LEED accreditation management, photometric calculations, computer daylight studies, simulations, photographic representations, and mock-up production. Committed to precision, accurate budgeting, and timely delivery, the company prioritizes creativity, technical excellence, and practicality in realizing clients' visions through collaborative teamwork. 

In This Episode:  

• (00:00) Introduction and Derek Barnwell background and career 
• (09:41) Bringing shop talk to the public, pricing, reps and relationships 
• (21:45) Pricing control challenges with manufacturers 
• (25:29) Markup and line item pricing 
• (29:07) Challenges with lighting budgeting 
• (47:00) Contractor confusion with DMX integration
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes! 

About the show:  

Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avraham Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.