Your Interview Karla Campos

Introduce yourself (name, company, position, country) and tell us how you got into lighting design (including education/qualifications).

My name is Karla and I am a Lighting Designer at Mulvey and Banani Lighting, in Toronto, Canada. I did my Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering in Mexico City, my hometown, and I got into lighting trying to introduce myself to the Interior Design world; until I discovered that Lighting Design was a fundamental part of the success of any architectural design.

Tell us about your work – is there a specific type of project you like to work on or an area you specialise in and why?

I love working in residential projects where the design is so tailored that the Client can call it ‘the house of my dreams’. Lately I’ve been working in a couple of universities, and I’ve discovered a great passion in it. Lots of coordination with different ceiling heights, an infinite number of finish options, and the ability to discover how generations are evolving and what their needs are.

What project are you most proud of and why?

The project that I’m most proud of is a corporate project at The WELL Tower in Toronto: Point Click Care. I was warmly and thoughtfully mentored from the conceptual phase to the construction of it, and it taught me how far I could go with the appropriate resources, and how important coordination with Consultants, Manufacturers, and Contractors is.

What is the biggest challenge that you have overcome in your career?

The biggest challenge in my career has been to learn to value my time and realize how worthy my work and my potential are. 

How does light inspire you?

I find inspiration in light sharing it with non-lighting individuals. The fact that someone tells me that the light should be ‘warmer’ in a certain restaurant, or stops to analyze the shadows cast over a certain surface,  makes me feel fulfilled. 

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

My message for the Women in Lighting that may cross paths with me, is to encourage you to never miss a chance to make your words heard. Do your research, be at the top of your game, and you will be capable of advocating for your perspective without hesitating.