Illumni’s second ‘BreakFirsts’ event will be on Friday, 21 February with the topic ‘Is lighting the new concrete?’

Following on from the first event, which was a thought-provoking success, the second is dedicated to flushing out hitherto untold ideas about lighting. It will feature speakers who commission lighting designers and lighting designers who are pleased they do.

With the theme of ‘lighting is the new concrete’, speakers will explore how lighting can divide rooms, wash walls, add space and decorate, as well as illuminate.

The event will feature five speakers at L’Aqua, Cockle Bay, Sydney, while enjoying some much needed breakfast.

Chris Bennewith – Associate Pro Vice Chancellor, College of Creative Arts, Massey University, Wellington

Before taking his role at Massey University, Bennewith headed up two design departments, one in New Zealand and the other in the UK. His research is carried out with international art and design collective Squidsoup, who are known for their augmented reality environments. Bennewith has set up and run three Wellington LUX events, which showcase the innovative use of light and technology by artists, designers and architects from around the world.

Grant Collins – director, Bar Soloutions

As the founder and managing director of cutting-edge, Sydney-based bar consultancy company barsolutions, Collins understands what great lighting can add to the mix. Having won numerous bartender and bar design awards, he has consulted in the US, Bali, China, Japan, India, Singapore and Thailand on projects, including the award-winning Zeta bar at the Sydney Hilton.

Paul Kelly – director, Paul Kelly Design

As an accomplished designer, Kelly and his team are responsible for some of Sydney’s most recognisable venues, including Sokyo, Black by Ezard, Ivanhoe Manly, The Oaks and The Bourbon. He stands out for creating distinctive spaces that remain timeless.

Black @ The Star by Paul Kelly DesignBlack @ The Star by Paul Kelly Design

Christopher Boots – director, Christopher Boots

With his first collection released November 2011, Boots marries traditional cutting-edge materials with various techniques where the output of bespoke hand-crafted lighting transforms architecture. His extensive travel, research and training in the arts and architecture fields informs every project. All products from his studio are handmade using a broad variety of techniques with a diverse team of artisans, including glass blowers, copper smiths, ceramicists, sculptors, and bronze casters.

The Collins Bar – AdelaideHilton Hotels / Grant Collins / Woods Bagot / PointOfViewThe Collins Bar – Adelaide Hilton Hotels / Grant Collins / Woods Bagot / PointOfView

Mark Elliott – principal, PointOfView

For 15 years, Elliott has been working as an independent lighting designer. He has worked on projects with five Pritzker Prize winners, and with his team at PointOf View, he works across all sectors, from airports to boutiques.  He brings a fresh point of view to each project, while talking old problems in new ways. With an impressive multi-awarded track record in hospitality projects, Elliott has taken PointOfView around the globe.

To attend the event on ‘Is lighting the new concrete?’ and hear the views of the above guest speakers, register via the BreakFirsts website.

Where: L'Aqua Cockle Bay, Sydney

When: Friday, 21st February 2014

Time: 7.30am til 9.30am

RSVP: BreakFirsts website