-
This lighting solution at Wave Villa (ARRCC) links the living spaces and serves as the “crown” of the home. -
The Domum showroom by Three14 Architects breaks from conventional retail lighting with carefully positioned pools of light. -
The lighting at Wave Villa simulates the sunset, with multiple layers across contrasting planes. -
At the residential OVD525 project by Three14 Architects, lighting is seamlessly integrated into the architecture. -
The office lamp at Project Beyond is designed to conceal the light source while fully illuminating the work surface. -
In the games room at Project Beyond, indirect ambient lighting accentuates the warmth of the timber, while task lighting ensures functionality. -
The bronze Amphora, a feature light by One to One, is inspired by nature. -
A cosy space at Project Beyond showcases the perfect balance of residential task lighting. -
A statement pendant, back-glow and integrated lighting create harmony and balance at the Domum showroom. -
The award-winning Qalibra pendant showcases One to One’s commitment to beautiful and functional design. -
The kitchen at Wave Villa includes downlights, track lighting, undercounter illumination, recessed lighting – and even nightlights. -
Pendants illuminate the table at OVD525. -
A tranquil room at Domum’s retail space features ambient lighting that simulates sunlight, and can be adjusted throughout the day. -
The lights beside the mirrors at OVD525 provide an indirect glow, accentuating the texture of the concrete walls. -
What makes the lighting at Project Beyond by SAOTA and ARRCC particularly powerful is how it emanates from the ground up rather than from the ceiling down, creating a striking effect.
Award-winning designer Martin Döller, creative director and co-founder of One to One Lighting, talks about his craft, the power of illumination and what constitutes truly brilliant design.
WORDS Jo Buitendach PHOTOS Adam Letch, Gavin Kleinschmidt, Greg Cox
Lighting isn’t just a perfunctory blurb and switch – and Martin Döller knows it. The local lighting visionary is on a mission to help you “experience more – with light”. And he’s clearly succeeding: the designer was recently appointed to the jury of the LIT Lighting Design Awards, a global platform that honours excellence in lighting design and innovation. Adjudicated by a distinguished panel of industry leaders, the awards spotlight the best in the business.
“Light has the power to shape how we live, feel and function. It’s not just about illumination – it’s about emotional impact,” Martin explains. “Experiential lighting can improve your sleep, lift your mood, and transform your experience of a space.” With that ethos in mind, Martin shares his passion for beautiful light, along with a few tips for better lighting at home and beyond.
“My lighting journey started in nature. During solo expeditions across the South African wilderness, I noticed how natural light impacted my mood, energy levels and sleep. That visceral connection became the foundation of my design ethos. I’ve spent more than 15 years refining lighting design, driven by my love of architecture, passion for wellness and fascination with light itself.”
“One to One is rooted in biophilic design. By mimicking the qualities of natural light in built environments, the team creates lighting experiences that are technically sound, emotionally resonant and grounded in nature. From luxury lodges like Cheetah Plains to high-end retail concepts such as Officine Gullo and private residences, our work spans over a thousand projects – all focused on crafting immersive, human-centric environments through light.”
“I lead the creative vision and design philosophy of One to One. That means overseeing each lighting concept to ensure it does more than just function – it must feel. I work closely with our in-house design division, Modus, and collaborate with architects, interior designers and clients to bring to life our signature luminous layering technique.”
“Each environment carries a distinct emotional and functional identity – and lighting must respond to it. Residential lighting is deeply personal, attuned to a person’s rhythms, moods and routines. It’s about comfort and subtle transitions. Hospitality lighting is more transportive – it layers mood, ambiance and theatre to create immersive moments. Retail and commercial spaces require lighting that’s both functional and emotionally engaging, encouraging connection and expressing brand identity.”
“At One to One, we use a technique we call luminous layering – balancing task, mood and theatrical lighting to reflect the emotional purpose of each space. Whether it’s a luxury home or a flagship store, we always begin with one question: ‘How do you want people to feel here?’ We often draw from nature, from the soft ness of indirect glow to the drama of shifting shadows. Just as we instinctively respond to a sunset or a starry night, light should evoke emotion and connection, no matter the setting.”
“I’m particularly proud of a project called Wave Villa: a biophilic masterpiece where every detail was considered. From concealed LEDs to architectural feature lights, the home breathes light. Every division in our studio – design, product, technical and bespoke – was involved, offering a turnkey solution. The result? An experiential space that proves lighting can elevate architecture itself.”
“Too often, lighting is treated as an afterthought. But when designed with intent – when it’s woven into the architecture rather than tacked on – it can enhance wellbeing on every level. Our philosophy is simple: light less, light better, feel more.” 1-to-1.world | @onetoonebymartindoller
Lighting Residential Space: Martin’s Quick
- Layer your lighting. Don’t rely on ceiling downlights alone.
- Use warm tones. They mimic sunset hues and create a relaxing feel.
- Mix levels – ceiling, wall, floor. Use dimmers wherever possible.
- Prioritise feature lighting over standard architectural fittings.
- Let light enhance materials – wood, stone, art, texture.
- Avoid cold, flat flood lighting. It kills atmosphere and disrupts natural rhythm. Think contrast, not glare.
Don’t forget to sign up to our weekly newsletter for the latest architecture and design news.
