It's never just lightIndependent architectural lighting design and the development of bespoke luminaires for architecture and interior design.
My work follows a holistic approach that seamlessly combines architectural lighting design with product design. With a deep sensitivity to materials, proportions and the way people experience space, I dedicate the same level of care to every project, whether it is a private residence or a complex architectural environment.
Light is essential to our well-being. It influences the way we perceive and experience a space—it can calm, inspire and move us.
This philosophy is reflected in every project I undertake, from the initial concept to the final execution. From the lighting design for Die Neue Sammlung and the Danner Rotunda at the Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich, to the illumination of the Palais an der Oper, and private retreats in the Caribbean.
Whether creating atmospheric lighting for homes and gardens or developing lighting concepts for retail, hospitality and commercial environments, I offer a comprehensive service covering every aspect of professional lighting design. My work ranges from architectural lighting concepts and bespoke product development to the creation of custom-designed luminaires and unique lighting objects.
Drawing on extensive experience across all phases of a project—from the first concept through detailed planning, specification, site supervision and commissioning—as well as expertise in contemporary lighting control systems, I create lighting concepts that do more than illuminate architecture. They enhance the way it is perceived, experienced and valued.
Throughout every project, aesthetic quality and technical precision remain inseparable—always guided by the relationship between People. Light. Space.
AWARDS:
2025 LIT AWARD. HONORABLE MENTION. SLYRS WHISKY DISTILLERY CAMPUS
2025 GERMAN DESIGN AWARD. Nominated. NUUNU floor light
2024 LIT INTERN. LIGHTING DESIGN AWARD WINNER: NUUNU floor light
2022 Dt. LICHTDESIGNPREIS. Nominated. Lighting Design at Danner Rotunda, Pinakothek der Moderne Munich
Projects / Products
LIGHT IS ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS OUR BRAIN USES TO UNDERSTAND A SPACE.
Light isn' just something we see.
Light changes how we read spaces
The same room can feel layered, intimate or clinical depending on where the light comes from.
Lighting shapes the feeling of dimension and atmosphere.
Which is the right color temperature for your space?
Cooler light tends to support alertness and focus.
Warmer light tends to support relaxation and recovery.
The question is not whether warm or cool light is better.
The question should be, whether the lighting matches what the space is asking of us
Light intensity influences how a space feels
Higher light levels can increase visibility and awareness of surroundings.
Lower light levels can create a sense of privacy and inward focus.
About
ROBERT W. MILLER
Founder of DFS:
"My wife and I have know Flavia since 2001 when she worked at Ingo Maurer GmbH as a key member of Ingo's design team. She is an excellent lighting designer and created wonderful projects for my family's homes in Hong Kong and the Bahamas.
I recommend her highly and have no doubt you will be pleased with her work."
Prof. Dr. Florian Hufnagl, Director of Die Neue Sammlung, The Design Museum at the Pinakothek der Moderne Munich (1990-2014)
"Dear Flavia,
You have repeatedly proven that you not only give your very best, but consistently achieve outstanding results. It has always been a pleasure to witness your exceptional sensitivity in understanding and shaping spaces."
After graduating in Industrial Design, I joined Ettore Sottsass' studio in Milan, where I worked on international architecture, interior and product design projects. In 1999, I founded Flavia Thumshirn licht+design and, in parallel, collaborated with Ingo Maurer for more than 25 years. During this time, I developed lighting products from the initial idea through to production, created bespoke lighting objects, and led international projects for private residences, hotels, museums and commercial clients in close collaboration with renowned architects including François Catroux, Ed Tuttle and Peter Marino.
Today, my work brings together three disciplines that naturally complement one another: architectural lighting design, product design, and the development of bespoke luminaires. I accompany projects from the first concept through to completion, creating tailor-made lighting solutions whenever the architecture calls for something beyond standard products.
For me, every successful lighting concept begins with curiosity—by listening carefully to my clients, understanding their aspirations and discovering the unique character of each project. Light should reveal materials and proportions, guide people intuitively through spaces, create atmosphere and emotion, and become an integral part of the architecture rather than simply illuminate it.
Flavia Thumshirn holds both German and Swiss citizenship and speaks German, English and Italian.