Thibault Faÿ blends architectural expertise with specialist lighting design to create harmonious spaces that transform how we experience buildings.
From Paris to Johannesburg
Born in Paris but raised in other cities, Thibault Faÿ returned to the French capital only for his architectural studies at Ecole Spéciale d'Architecture (ESA). It was here that illumination engineering first captured his imagination.
"During my studies, I took illumination engineering lessons, which fascinated me," explains Faÿ. "While practising architecture, I often felt curious about this science and the need to expand my knowledge of lighting to master it in my future projects."
After completing his master's degree, Faÿ worked at various architectural firms throughout France, gaining experience across a diverse portfolio of projects including residential buildings, offices, high-end resort hotels, urban design, interior design, and laboratories. Each project type presented unique lighting challenges, further fuelling his interest in specialised illumination solutions.
A significant career shift occurred when Faÿ relocated to South Africa over a decade ago to join an engineering and architecture firm. A chance attendance at a lighting design lecture in Johannesburg, presented by Philip Hammond from BHA School of Lighting, proved transformative.
"This sparked my interest, and I began following his webinars. Eventually, I enrolled in the BHA School of Lighting for an advanced illumination engineering diploma," Faÿ recalls.
Faÿ recently graduated from the comprehensive two-year programme and now offers specialised lighting design services alongside his architectural practice.
The art of collaborative creation
When asked about his proudest career achievement, Faÿ emphasises his commitment to every project.
"I do not take pride in any single achievement, as I strive to dedicate the same level of commitment to every project I undertake," he says. "I believe that architecture is a collaborative effort involving site constraints, the client's vision, the architect's concept, and the builder's practicalities."
Nevertheless, Faÿ describes a particularly noteworthy interior design project encompassing high-end hospitality, a wellness centre, offices, and a conference facility. This project allowed him to work with exquisite natural materials, including marble, granite, wood, and brass.
The lighting concept he developed demonstrated his integrated approach: indirect ambient lighting combined with direct task lighting and accent illumination for artworks and architectural features. Implemented throughout different buildings and controlled by an automation system, the design delivered exceptional flexibility for both lighting scenarios and occupants.
Guidance for the next generation
Drawing on his experience, Faÿ offers three key pieces of advice for young professionals entering the architecture and lighting design industries:
- "Work diligently: Architecture and lighting design blend science with artistic expression. There is no single solution to a problem, so invest time in exploring various options to find the most suitable one for your project."
- "Be authentic: Discover your own motivation and channel it into something uniquely yours."
- "Continue exploring: Cultivate curiosity about past achievements, gain knowledge of iconic buildings, and stay informed about current trends and technologies."
Vision for the future
Looking ahead, Faÿ envisions establishing a boutique architecture and lighting design practice with 5–10 employees. His ideal workplace would foster constructive debate and take on international projects, drawing inspiration from global cultural diversity.
"I enjoy engaging in debates on a variety of topics. I believe that conversing with diverse individuals enhances my understanding of the world and contributes to my personal growth," he says. "I am fascinated by different cultures and the lifestyles of people from various regions."
Faÿ concludes with a quote from pioneering lighting designer Richard Kelly (1910-1977):
"I can logically project a great many techniques in lighting to improve people's lives or to make a house more beautiful, but it is all theory until we have the record of experience, which we are only beginning to write."
