Founded in 2008, Sol Luminaire™ has redefined the landscape of architectural lighting in Singapore, blending functionality with sophisticated design. From pioneering new trends with their AEON® brand to crafting innovative solutions that enhance both residential and commercial spaces, discover how this family legacy continues to shine by integrating design, technology, and artistry into every luminaire. We speak to Cheng Kit, Senior Marketing Executive, to understand more about the brand’s journey and vision.
Cheng Kit, Senior Marketing Executive, Sol Luminaire
Could you share the story behind the founding of Sol Luminaire and the inspiration that led to the creation of the brand?
Sol Luminaire™ was founded in 2008 with the vision of continuing a family legacy in furnishings and fittings while pioneering a new direction in architectural lighting. The inspiration for the brand came from a recognition of the need for lighting solutions that not only provided functionality but also integrated sophisticated design elements.
At a time when functional yet uninspiring LED lighting dominated Singaporean interiors, Sol Luminaire™ sought to elevate the local market by introducing products that enhanced both the aesthetic and functional aspects of lighting– marking the beginning of Sol Luminaire™’s journey in creating distinctive lighting experiences for homes and commercial spaces.
How does Sol Luminaire differentiate itself from other lighting brands in the market?
We distinguish ourselves through a combination of innovative design, meticulous craftsmanship, and a commitment to quality. Unlike mass-produced lighting solutions, Sol Luminaire™’s products, particularly through our in-house brand AEON®, emphasise architectural aesthetics that blend seamlessly with interior spaces. The use of high-quality materials and attention to detail ensures that each luminaire not only illuminates effectively but also adds a sophisticated touch to its surroundings. Furthermore, we curate a unique showroom experience that showcases international brands alongside our own collections, offering customers a diverse range of design choices that reflect the latest trends in lighting and interior design.
The Halo Gypsum lights, embedded seamlessly into the ceiling, create a soft, ambient glow that enhances the serene atmosphere of the living space.
What is the core philosophy or mission that drives Sol Luminaire’s product development and overall brand direction?
Sol Luminaire™ is driven by a core philosophy of integrating design, technology, and functionality to create lighting solutions that enhance living environments. Our mission is to redefine how lighting is perceived and utilised locally by prioritising both aesthetic appeal and practicality. We want to foster a community of design enthusiasts and artisans, promoting collaboration and innovation within the industry.
Can you walk us through the R&D process at Sol Luminaire? How do you decide on new product features and designs?
What role does technology play in your R&D? Are there any innovative technologies that Sol Luminaire has recently adopted?
Technology is at the heart of our R&D efforts at Sol Luminaire™. We continuously explore advancements in LED technology, smart lighting systems, and sustainable materials. Our commitment to forward-thinking design trends, embodied by AEON®, ensures our products are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. For instance, our dim-to-warm function allows lights to dim down to a warm glow, creating a cosy ambience and ideal conditions for winding down. Additionally, we have developed smart lighting solutions like the Isa V3 Tunable White, which can be controlled remotely via mobile apps, offering users greater convenience and energy efficiency.
Recently, we introduced Circuit.11, a modular track system with an ultra-slim 11mm profile. This innovation required us to develop and downsize components to achieve a seamless design that blends into any environment.
Can you share some insights into how AEON®‘s designs have evolved and how you integrate upcoming trends into your luminaires?
We stay ahead of trends through market research, attending industry events, and collaborating with designers and architects.
As trends evolve, so do we. The Ripple Gypsum series, for example, gives the Isa V3 and Isa V3 Mini lamps a dynamic, ripple-like pattern inspired by historical plaster adornments, blending past and contemporary design.
Circuit.11 modular track system meets the current trend for modular furniture and decor, allowing homeowners to easily change their lighting layout. Its ultra-slim 11mm profile and versatile design fit seamlessly into various spaces, reflecting a shift towards adaptable and minimalist aesthetics.
We also explore architectural statement luminaires that reflect our customers’ personalities while perfecting the nuanced lighting needed for a cosy ambience, ensuring our designs remain inspiring and relevant.
Can you highlight some of your most innovative products and what makes them stand out?
Another highlight is our Circuit.11. Its ultra-slim 11mm profile comes in various iterations—R track, H track, U track, and trimless track—each offering unique design possibilities. The R track features subtle curves, enhancing visual appeal, while the H tracks provide options for both uplighting and downlighting. The trimless track offers a minimalist look, blending seamlessly into ceilings and walls. Circuit.11’s versatility extends beyond profiles; its modular design allows for dynamic layouts that flow from ceiling to wall, giving homeowners the flexibility to adapt their lighting setup as desired.
What obstacles do you encounter in designing and developing new lighting solutions, and how do you address them?
One challenge in designing new lighting solutions is downsizing products while maintaining functionality and ease of installation. Implementing dimmability without complicating the process is another concern, especially given the need for space-saving solutions in Singapore’s smaller apartments.
After extensive research and testing, we’re excited to introduce Circuit.11, our ultra-slim modular track lighting system. With a track width of just 11mm, it addresses the bulkiness of conventional and magnetic tracks in modern spaces. Offering surface-mount, suspended, and recessed models with curved and angled profiles, Circuit.11 provides homeowners with versatile, customisable lighting options that adapt to changing needs.
The ripple-like patterns of the Isa V3 Ripple Gypsum evoke the serene beauty of water droplets, infusing spaces with a sense of calm and elegance.
What are the main influences behind Sol Luminaire’s design aesthetics?
Sol Luminaire™’s design aesthetics are heavily influenced by modern interior design principles, where our luminaires seamlessly blend into interior spaces. The entire Gypsum series aims to add a decorative touch to the space, allowing homeowners to enhance their ceilings and transitional areas—an often overlooked design element.
Suspended gracefully, the Khmara lamp becomes a focal point, blending modern elegance with artisanal heritage, making it a true masterpiece in contemporary lighting.
Have you collaborated with any designers or architects on special projects? If so, can you share some details about those collaborations?
One notable collaboration is our partnership with Makhno Studio, which resulted in the exclusive Custom White Gold Khmara lamp. This variant, the first of its kind, introduces a luxurious twist to the beloved Khmara design, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and quality that set it apart in the market. Each Khmara lamp is meticulously handcrafted, ensuring a level of finish and detail that cannot be replicated by mass-market machines.
Another recent collaboration is with a-emotional light, leading to the creation of the Gold Venus wall lamp. This exclusive piece combines a-emotional light’s expertise in organic shapes with Sol Luminaire™’s commitment to elegant design.
The Gold Venus wall lamp, a result of Sol Luminaire™’s collaboration with a-emotional light, captures the essence of refined elegance and organic beauty. Inspired by the delicate form of a seashell, this lamp combines intricate craftsmanship with a luxurious gold finish, creating a stunning focal point in any room.
Perfectly balancing minimalism with sophisticated design, Circuit.11 exemplifies the future of architectural lighting.
What can we expect from Sol Luminaire in the coming years? Are there any exciting projects or products in the pipeline that you can share with us?
We are gearing up for the pre-order launch of our modular track lighting system, Circuit.11. Additionally, we have a new collection of AEON® luminaires and upgraded local favourites scheduled for release in the latter half of 2024. These developments are designed to align with shifting market trends and evolving interior preferences.
