Normann Copenhagen's expert advice for buying lighting
Lighting does more than illuminate a room - it defines its mood, highlights its character and brings design to life.
To understand what truly matters when choosing lighting for your home, we chatted with Yuchen Wu, product designer at Normann Copenhagen.
For Yuchen, design has always been rooted in her surroundings. Growing up on the east coast of Taiwan, those landscapes still influence the way she approaches form, storytelling, and the role of objects in daily life. “Being able to immerse myself in nature, culture and architecture inspires me to create objects that bring people joy,” she explains.
We discuss the craft, the emotion and the subtle decisions behind creating light - plus she reveals her top tips to consider when buying lighting.
Read the full interview below >
1. What is Normann Copenhagen’s design philosophy when it comes to lighting?
We strive to stay open while exploring new directions in design. An open mind toward new materials or unconventional solutions often sparks surprising and inspiring outcomes.
2. How do you balance form and function in your lighting designs?
Consider how lighting shapes different scenarios, and let the design evolve through a mindful and intentional process.
3. How does Scandinavian design heritage influence your approach to lighting?
One of the most cherished values in Denmark is “hygge” - the feeling of coziness and appreciating the simple, beautiful moments in life.
Sitting by a table lamp while reading a book, or enjoying coffee with loved ones under a soft, cozy ceiling light, these are the moments I want to create for people through lighting.
4. What role does sustainability play in your lighting collections?
Considering this is a core part of the design process, the final product should prioritise durability and ease of maintenance.
5. What are the key factors people should consider before purchasing a light fixture for their home?
- Function for the room
- Traffic flow in the room
- Material
6. How important is understanding a room’s purpose when choosing lighting?
The purpose of a room also determines the type of lighting it needs. For example, in a bedroom, it’s often best to choose a softer, warmer main light rather than one that’s too bright or focused. You can then add bedside lamps or portable lights to meet practical needs.
7. What common mistakes do you see people make when buying lighting?
Choosing too many lights with focused beam for the home without layering light, it can make the space feel harsh and uninviting.
8. How can lighting help define or enhance the mood of a room?
Lighting can serve as a divider, helping to define different areas within a room. In a room with more activities, such as the kitchen or the dining room, it’s a good idea to choose lamps that makes the space more open and airy.
9. How do you design for both functional and ambient lighting needs?
Choosing the materials that are practical, durable and appropriate for the scenario and consider how users will interact with the lamp when designing - including how they turn it on and off, adjust its position, and handle it safely.
10. Layering light has become a key concept in interior design. What’s your advice for getting that balance right?
Beginning with lights from the same series is simpler, since their aesthetics are consistent, and their light sources have similar tones.
11. How do you think about colour temperature when designing for different moods or spaces?
Warm tones promote relaxation and warmth, while cool lighting encourages focus and productivity, making it ideal for workplaces or retail spaces.
12. How do new technologies influence your design process?
Smart lighting provides more flexibility and supports a broader variety of user scenarios.
13. What materials do you find most interesting or challenging to work with in lighting design?
Each material comes with its own strengths and weaknesses. It’s always a challenge to interpret light through the interplay of material and structure.
14. When you’re developing a prototype, how do you test or refine the light quality to make sure it feels just right?
It’s important for the light to give the natural expression. By making prototypes, we can test if the lampshade reflects or diffuses the light as intended.
15. If you could give just one piece of advice to someone choosing lighting for their home, what would it be?
Find a piece that can give you warmth and create your own cozy bubble at home.
16. Looking ahead, where do you see lighting design going in the next decade? What excites you most about the future of light?
The lighting design becomes more flexible and adaptable to individual needs. A stronger focus on sustainable material is a positive step forward.
A CLOSING NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDER, EMILY:
At Normann Copenhagen, lighting isn’t just about visibility - it’s about experience. It’s the art of shaping emotion through design, creating spaces that feel both calm and alive. Whether you’re choosing a sculptural pendant or a discreet wall lamp, the right light transforms more than your surroundings - it transforms how you live within them.
Thank you for speaking with us Yuchen, your expert insights are incredibly helpful! x
explore our Normann Copenhagen Lighting
View all
