DFA world outstanding chinese designer tino kwan on light design

Table of Contents

designboom speaks to DFA-AWARDED tino kwan on the art of light

Light is an art form that shapes spaces, evokes emotions, and causes experiences, and few understand this better than Tino Kwan, a pioneer in lighting design. In recognition of his transformative work, Kwan was honored with the 2024 DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer award, celebrating his significant impact on the design and lighting industry and his dedication to nurturing future talent. For over 45 years, his work has transformed some of the most prestigious interiors, including luxury hotels and commercial buildings to Michelin-starred restaurants and private homes.

In an exclusive interview with designboom, Kwan shared insights into his journey: ‘I didn’t know what it meant to be a lighting designer until I entered the industry in 1974, working for a US lighting consulting company in Hong Kong. I thought I would be designing light fittings, but I soon learned that my role was about overall lighting planning. I went for it, fell in love with the job, and never looked back. That journey took me to Athens, then London, where I founded my company in 1979 before returning to Hong Kong in 1981 designing my first project, a private club, working with Joseph D’Urso and Andy Warhol both from New York.’

Sabatini Ristorante Italiano, IFC Mall, Hong Kong

A Lighting Visionary with a Minimalist Philosophy

The DFA Awards, established by the Hong Kong Design Centre since 2003, celebrate design excellence and leadership in Asia. Among its accolades, the DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer award honors designers of Chinese origin with significant achievements and international recognition. For 2024, the prestigious award went to Tino Kwan. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Kwan’s journey in lighting began after studying industrial design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His career took him across continents, from Hong Kong to Athens, London, and beyond, refining his craft in diverse cultural landscapes. In 1979, he founded Tino Kwan Lighting Consultants (TKLC) in London, which has since become one of the world’s leading lighting design firms, with offices in Hong Kong, Beijing, and Tokyo.

‘Unlike physical furniture, which can be touched, lighting design relies on visualizations and imaginations– factors like intensity, direction, and color all play a role. My philosophy is “to utilize minimum lighting to achieve maximum effect.” I avoid over-lighting, ensuring each light serves a purpose. Lighting is about understanding the interplay between light sources and their environment. Secondary lighting effects should always be considered to prevent over-lit. When you achieve the right balance, the space feels more natural and comfortable, and the lighting seamlessly integrates into the architecture,’ explained Kwan to designboom,’ explained Tino Kwan to designboom.

Tino Kwan, recipient of the DFA World’s Outstanding Chinese Designer (DFA WOCD)

bringing architecture to life through thoughtful illumination

Kwan’s work is a fusion of technology and artistic vision. He believes that lighting should enhance the essence of a space rather than overpower it. His projects, including Raffles Singapore, The Peninsula Tokyo, and Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau, are celebrated for their ability to bring architecture to life through thoughtful illumination.

‘It’s important to start the lighting design concept by considering how lighting becomes part of interior, and even part of architecture. It’s about understanding the soul of the architecture, the narrative the interior design seeks to tell, and then envisioning how light can become an integral character within that story. It’s not just about illumination; it’s about sculpting emotion, it’s about painting with light and shadow to evoke feelings of warmth, tranquility, drama, and comfort,’ he says to designboom.

Raffles Singapore

Sustainability is a key pillar of Kwan’s work. At a time when energy conservation is more critical than ever, he emphasizes intelligent lighting solutions that reduce consumption without compromising aesthetics. His approach aligns with global energy-saving initiatives, proving that good design is the foundation of true efficiency. ‘Few consider how light reflects and refracts, focusing only on intensity and placement. By harnessing ambient light and reflection, we can reduce unnecessary lamps and improve efficiency. Many assume sustainability means using energy-saving bulbs, but true efficiency comes from smart design, not just the tools themselves,’ he explains.

Having worked extensively in both Western and Eastern markets, Kwan maintains that lighting transcends cultural boundaries. He approaches each project with a neutral perspective, allowing the architectural style to dictate the lighting narrative rather than imposing a predefined aesthetic. His adaptability has made him a sought-after designer across continents, ensuring his designs remain relevant in diverse settings. Kwan notes: ‘Lighting doesn’t really have nationality, like ‘this is “Western” or ‘that is “Oriental”. I used to get asked about being from Hong Kong and my designs, but I came to the conclusion that I’m designing the lighting of a space. The style doesn’t come from my lighting design – it comes from its interior or architectural design.’

Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau

Nurturing the next generation and Advice for Future Designers

Beyond his personal achievements, Kwan is deeply committed to mentoring young designers. He has lectured at esteemed institutions such as Tsinghua University in Beijing and design institutes in Hong Kong, sharing his knowledge and inspiring the next generation.‘My advice to young designers is simple – stay humble and keep learning. Even now, I’m learning every day. Light is everywhere. Observe how it transforms spaces, how it makes you feel. Be open, stay curious, and never stop exploring’, Kwan advises the designer.

Despite his achievements, he remains focused on pushing the boundaries of lighting design, setting even higher standards for himself and his team. ‘I never chase after awards – I simply do my best. Receiving the World Outstanding Chinese Designer Award reassures me that I’ve been on the right path. It’s an incredible honor, and it motivates me to set even higher standards for myself and my team,’ concludes Tino Kwan.

The Peninsula Tokyo