When I took on my first job in the Netherlands, I had no idea how rewarding it would be to see the final result come to life. The project involved designing a custom pendant ceiling light for a dining room in Utrecht, inside a beautiful typical Dutch home.

The Concept: Combining Functionality with Aesthetic Appeal

The idea behind this project was to create a central lighting element that was not only functional but also visually striking. The client wanted something different from the usual pendant lamps, something that would highlight the simplicity of the space while adding a touch of personality. My solution was to integrate LED spotlights into three wooden boards, mounted directly on the ceiling and crossing over the entire dining room.

The Design: Materials and Structure

The first step was selecting the right materials. The wood needed to have an elegant texture while being durable. I chose a local type of wood that complemented the dining room’s cabinet already present, mixing modern and traditional Dutch design. Once the wood was selected, I carefully planned the placement of the LED spotlights. They needed to be discreet but capable of providing a warm, even light, perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere (Gezellig in Dutch).

The Build: From Concept to Reality

With the design finalized, it was time to bring the concept to life. While the installation appeared simple, it required meticulous attention to detail. The placement of the spotlights within the wooden boards had to be carefully calculated to ensure even lighting distribution (and also taking into account the non-linear Dutch walls and ceiling!).

In addition to the LED spotlights embedded in the beams, there was a need for three pendant lamps at the end of the installation, hanging directly above the dining table. These lamps provided targeted illumination, ideal for dining and socializing. I selected fixings with a sleek, modern design to match the overall aesthetic and positioned them carefully to ensure balanced lighting.

Installing the pendant lamps required extra care with the wiring, which needed to remain hidden inside the wooden beams to maintain the clean look of the project. By using energy-efficient LED lighting and strategically placed pendants, we achieved both functionality and a visually cohesive design, perfectly suited to the dining room.

Additional Custom Features: Piano Bar and Kitchen Shelf

After completing the ceiling light installation, the client was so pleased with the result that they asked me to take on additional projects in their home. One of these was the design of a sleek piano bar, placed just above the railing of the staircase leading to the lower floor. The challenge here was to create a surface that was both functional and elegant, fitting seamlessly into the existing small space while providing a practical spot for serving drinks or displaying decorative items.

In the kitchen, I designed and installed a wall-to-wall shelf. This feature stretches across the length of the kitchen wall, providing ample space for everyday items like spices, cookware, and utensils. The shelf is positioned at an accessible height, allowing the client to easily grab what they need while cooking, while also keeping the countertops free of clutter. The design combines practicality with the clean lines that characterize the rest of the home, making it both useful and visually pleasing, enhancing the overall functionality of the space.

Final Outcome

Seeing the completed project, and knowing where I started with the client, was an immensely satisfying experience. The finished products of the whole project not only transformed the space but also marked an important milestone in my career in the Netherlands.

This project allowed me to explore new techniques and materials, but more importantly, it helped me adapt to a new cultural and professional environment. Utrecht served as the perfect setting for my first international project, and the experience has helped me grow both professionally and personally.

This project highlighted the importance of precision and attention to detail in both design and execution. It allowed me to refine my skills and adapt to working in a new environment. Since then, I have continued to take on diverse projects, applying the same level of dedication and professionalism.

If you’re thinking about a custom lighting project for your home or office, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help bring your vision to life!

ALBUM