We’ve had a brilliant reaction to our new branding and website, which has helped us strengthen our existing partnerships and make a good impression with potential new customers. And this got us thinking about how important lighting can be in helping businesses ‘make an entrance’.

So, what does your reception space say about you?

Your foyer or entrance way is often the first physical visual of your company. From capturing the imagination of visitors to wowing potential clients and creating a stimulating environment for your team, you want it to make a good impression, right?

Often a blank canvas with minimal furniture, your reception area offers a brilliant opportunity to get creative with your lighting. Here are seven key ways you can make an entrance…


1. It’s all about personality‍

When you think about the ideal qualities of an entrance hall, chances are ‘inviting’ is up there. After all, there’s something quintessentially British about a warm welcome. And that all-important first handshake’ can be your lighting, adding warmth to this traditionally functional space.

But it’s much more than that. Arguably, the overarching role of your entrance hall should be to set out your stall and show off your brand personality. Are you modern and forward-thinking, or traditional and sophisticated?

Take our recent installation in Curzon Street, for example. One of Mayfair's most prestigious office buildings required something rather special. And what better way to make an impression than a bow tie? This hand-assembled custom canopy of Algorithm spheres of LED light adds a sense of occasion to the entrance. Adding to the grandeur is the sleek custom white finish – achieved by a powder coating process.

2. Take your cue from the existing architecture
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“When seeking lighting inspiration, look to the existing characteristics of your entrance way. What architectural strengths can you take advantage of? For example, lofty rooms are ideal for creating a sculptural focal point that commands the space.”
     – James Mansfield, CEO at LSE Lighting

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If your reception area is newly built, a bespoke pendant light could be used to accentuate this modern, open space. Or perhaps you want to create a juxtaposition between old and new? Be bold and transform the appearance of traditional brickwork by adding modern metallic lighting into the mix. The possibilities are endless!
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3. Perfect asymmetry
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If you’ve got a narrow reception space, a multi-directional, layered or asymmetrical light installation can provide a sculptural focus and make the space feel bigger. Carefully positioned mirror scan also add extra intrigue to the light installation and enhance the feeling of space.

Asymmetry also works to amplify wide spaces – as shown in our installation at Wimpole Street. We installed three bespoke chandeliers cast from anodised aluminium with inlaid with rock crystal to create a sense of drama and timeless elegance to the spacious reception area.
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4. Form and function
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Think about the purpose of your entrance area.Is it a waiting area or simply somewhere that guides clients to lifts, stairwells or other areas of the building? Business reception lighting can make a great first impression, but it also possesses orientation qualities to bring rooms (and people) together.

We’re extremely proud of our work with the Courtauld Institute, installing targeted lighting accents to direct the flow of natural light.

What’s more, the lights were machined from solid aluminium built with tolerances so perfect that they had to be created in a place known for making F1 components. Added to the bespoke frame was a handcrafted diffuser using Hadrian Stone, resulting in a minimalist but head-turning lighting solution.These wall lights also perform as emergency lighting for the staircase, proving that you can have beautiful items with functionality.

5. Think outside the box
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Remember that your foyer is often visible from the street, so your entrance lighting can create a sense of intrigue all year round – especially in those darker months.

Again, we’re shining a light on our Curzon Street project, which makes a dramatic impression on a busy London street. We often hear about ‘curb appeal for residential properties, but the same applies to commercial spaces – and lighting can play a major role in drawing the eye.

6. Put your company in the spotlight
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As we’ve discussed, a reception area can often be overlooked when it comes to interior design, but there’s something to be said for looking beyond the reception desk, sign-in screens and waiting areas.

Why not include any company photos, awards or even a sculpture that fits with your branding? And, of course, you can use your bespoke lighting to highlight these key pieces. For example, if you have a canopy of lights, you could use part of a cluster to highlight certain features.

7. Inspire your team
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What’s more, it’s important to create a reception area that’s aspirational for your team, giving them confidence and pleasure as they arrive to work.

Of course, this stretches far beyond the entrance – lighting is key to creating a well-balanced office environment. It can boost productivity, encourage meaningful interactions and spark bright ideas. This includes artistic light installations and modern acoustic lighting, which absorbs excessive noise.

Leave a lasting impression with LSE Lighting
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Our philosophy is that good lighting holds the key to creating and capturing atmosphere.

And, as we’ve seen, your entrance lighting is an unmissable opportunity to show off your company’s vision, hint at what’s in store beyond your entrance way and show your team that your office is much more than a place of work.

Want to find out more? We can help you unleash your imagination and bring your vision to life. Contact us today!