Despite the gloomy economic environment, I’m so pleased to be able to say that this year has been the best year for Sian Baxter Lighting Design since the business was launched. I’d like to think this reflects a growing reputation and not just an increasing appreciation that lighting is a fundamental element of interior design that shouldn’t be overlooked.

In 2011 I worked on a wide variety of interesting projects including two restaurants, residential new builds, Victorian house refurbishments and contemporary apartments. Leading up to the summer months, I also designed a number of external lighting schemes for some special urban gardens.

2011 was also an exciting year for the lighting industry as a whole. Since the introduction of the new Energy Efficiency Regulations in October 2010, manufacturers have been bringing new improved energy efficient products to market literally every month and an important part of my work has been to keep abreast of these developments to ensure my clients take advantage of the very latest technology.

I’ve found that most of my clients prefer me to see the projects through to implementation and not just be involved with the initial design. I very much welcome this as I love to see my designs come to life and by being involved all the way through I can ensure that what I envisaged isn’t compromised. My lighting surgery service has been popular too (although most of my clients who initially ask me to look at a single room end up asking me to do many more).

I will be featured in the March issue of House and Gardens so please look out for me!