Your Interview Nataly Safir

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

My name is Nataly Safir, and I am a Senior Lighting Designer at ThinkL in Toronto, Canada. I got into lighting somewhat serendipitously while studying interior design in Tel Aviv. During my studies, I discovered how profoundly lighting can shape spaces and human experiences. When I started looking for work, I found myself in an interview at a lighting studio—and I immediately fell in love with this niche. I’ve been “trapped” in it ever since, building over 12 years of experience on projects across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

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’m particularly interested in the visual and emotional effects of lighting in architecture. My approach often explores light as an element of space definition and its impact on how people experience a space. I love working across sectors—hospitality, residential, retail, institutional, and outdoor/landscape projects—but what matters most to me is the team, the creative freedom, and the opportunity to make a real impact on a project through lighting.

What project are you most proud of and why?

A recent project I’m especially proud of is the Arc’teryx flagship store in New York City. It was a fast-paced project, and the lighting we implemented had a significant impact, creating a more engaging and inviting experience compared to other brand locations. Earlier in my career, I worked on jewelry stores where lighting was used almost like an installation—illuminating only the jewelry while keeping the space moody, creating striking contrasts. Those experiences really taught me the power of lighting to define space and create emotion.

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

The biggest challenge for me has been balancing work with family life, especially after moving to a new country. Managing long hours, deadlines, and travel while raising children was already challenging, and at times it felt like I was starting over professionally. I’ve learned to set priorities, manage my time, and accept that I can be dedicated to both my work and my family without doing either perfectly. Finding that balance has been the most important lesson in my career.

How does light inspire you?

Light inspires me because it is both tangible and intangible—it can define architecture, manipulate mood, and guide human experience. It is never just illumination; it is a design tool, a storytelling element, and an emotional language that shapes how we perceive and interact with spaces. The way light interacts with materials, colors, and people fascinates me endlessly.

What is your message for other Women In Lighting?

My message is that progress isn’t linear and sometimes it is just about claiming the space you’ve already earned. Stay engaged, curious, push yourself when needed, and define success on your own terms. At the end of the day, many of the hardest conversations about what success means are internal and personal, so be kind to yourself along the way.