Interview with Raquel Gutiérrez and Ignacio Castillejo
-Your motto is ‘Not a lamp shop’… what are you?
We are a consulting company and supplier of lighting fixtures. We study the project thoroughly from both the client’s needs and the architecture itself.
-What is the DNA of Polight?
Really, the DNA of POLIGHT is us: Raquel and Nacho, who, after our experiences, apply our architectural and design knowledge to each project.
-What materials do you usually work with? And what about techniques?
We only work with light. As a master of architecture said, light is architecture in motion and is the most luxurious building material that exists (Alberto Campo Baeza). To achieve the desired light effects and “construct” with light, we rely on the best lighting fixtures on the market. It’s a rapidly evolving market, and we must stay updated to know the best technology and design for each project we face.
-How do you usually approach an interior design project?
We support the project created by the interior designer and analyze their intentions to emphasize them (never overshadow them) through the lighting project. We need to know what materials they are using and what they want to highlight to determine which light source is the most interesting.
-Could you share some details about the project for the Salón de Reinos at the Museo del Prado?
Currently, this project is in the bidding phase. We are participating in the lighting design of the main room alongside the architects directing the work, to create a lighting fixture capable of illuminating the permanent artwork to be displayed there, respecting the original chromaticity of the work and with one of the lowest damage factors to the paintings on the market.
-Of the projects you have completed, which one are you most proud of?
Our light showroom on Calle Castelló is our most important project as it aims to represent all the knowledge we apply to projects. We like to call it “the kitchen of light” so that people can see firsthand how different accessories that make up a fixture can create various light effects. Just like with different ingredients, you can achieve diverse recipes.
-How do you see the future of decorative lighting?
Decorative lighting, like interior design itself, will follow the trends of fashion. However, we believe that good lighting is “imperceptible,” yet you realize it is “well done.” Good technical lighting creates pleasant environments that can always be complemented with significant decorative pieces.
-What are the basic rules for decorating a space with light?
Our lighting rules are mainly: light only where it is necessary and light as a building material. In a space, we need to identify what we want to highlight (illuminate) and find a way to integrate it through the architecture so that it is as unobtrusive as possible.
-“Gaudí used to say that architecture is the arrangement of light, sculpture is the play of light”… Do you agree?
Partially yes. Gaudí, like other masters who have theorized about light, mainly spoke about natural light. We greatly appreciate supporting figures like him to emphasize that our challenge is to achieve that sensation with artificial light. I believe it is a somewhat unknown niche, as all great architects know how to use and take advantage of natural light, and our goal is to master artificial light.
