Josh Keily

Josh Keily joined The Lighting Practice in 2019.  While working toward his Bachelor of Architecture degree at Drexel University, he began pursuing lighting design as a way of understanding the many disciplines of the architecture industry.  Since joining TLP, Josh’s project experience has grown to include hospitality, transportation, and healthcare environments.

Why did you become a lighting designer?

I didn’t become a lighting designer. Being a lighting designer became me. As far back as I can remember I’ve had a strong curiosity about how I and others perceive the world. As I recognized light’s role in that perception I began to study it through photography, film and video. The effect light has on us is so intertwined with our emotions that the lighting designer is, in fact not just a designer but a story teller that connects directly with the human subconscious. As an architectural lighting designer it is the story of the built environment that that we tell.

What is the best thing about your job?

As if being a part of the collaborative team isn’t enough reward, at the end of the process there’s this beautiful and functional object that I get to have been a part of its creation. Creating environments that support good health and happiness.

What’s your “walkin’ down the street” theme song?

The Barney Miller theme song.

What 3 items would you take to a desert island other than food and water?

I only need two: plenty of gasoline and a motor boat.