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Thomas Schielke
Architect at ERCO
Professional Background
Thomas Schielke is a distinguished architect and lighting design specialist with a remarkable career that spans over two decades. His professional journey began at the prestigious University of Technology in Darmstadt, Germany, where he pursued his architectural studies, developing a profound understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of architecture. As a research assistant at the university's department for Building Design and Lighting Technology, Thomas contributed to the academic community while honing his expertise in architectural lighting. His doctoral thesis focused on the intricate relationship between architectural lighting and brand communication, highlighting his commitment to merging design with effective messaging.
In the professional realm, Thomas has made significant strides at ERCO, a leading lighting manufacturer, where he currently works in the didactic and communications division. Known for his innovative approach, he previously served as a trainer conducting lighting seminars and workshops at DIAL from 2014 to 2015. His notable career at ERCO extended from 2001 until 2014, during which he played a pivotal role in the didactic and communications division. There, he designed an extensive online guide for architectural lighting, led numerous workshops, and shared his insights through the publication of international articles on lighting design and technology. These contributions have solidified his reputation as an authoritative figure in the industry.
Beyond his work at ERCO, Thomas is a passionate educator, sharing his knowledge with aspiring architects and lighting designers at various prestigious institutions. He has lectured at renowned universities such as Harvard GSD, MIT, Columbia GSAPP, and Tongji University, among others. His teaching engagements reflect his dedication to fostering a deep understanding of lighting design among the next generation of architects.
Education and Achievements
Thomas Schielke's educational background is as impressive as his professional accomplishments. He earned a Doctorate in Architecture from the Technische Universität Darmstadt, where he further explored the nuances of architectural lighting through his research. His academic pursuits continued with specialized courses such as 'The Architectural Imagination' at Harvard University Graduate School of Design and 'Sustainable Building Design' at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). This diverse educational foundation equips Thomas with a holistic understanding of architectural principles, sustainable practices, and innovative design strategies.
Despite a busy career, Thomas has co-authored influential books such as "Light Perspectives - between culture and technology" and “SuperLux - Smart Light Art, Design & Architecture for Cities.” These publications reflect his deep engagement with lighting design and its impact on urban environments and culture. Additionally, his column “Light Matters” featured on ArchDaily, offers readers unique insights into the evolving discipline of architectural lighting, allowing him to engage with a wider audience and share his expertise with both industry professionals and enthusiasts alike.
As a member of the architectural community, Thomas has held various esteemed positions in numerous organizations. He has maintained a role as an architect at ERCO and has previously worked with arclighting, DIAL, and Wismar University of Technology. His extensive contributions to academia include roles as a teaching assistant at Cologne University of Applied Sciences and Hochschule Bochum, and he has served as a keynote speaker at several prestigious educational institutions, including Cornell University and Portland State University.
His Expertise in Lighting Design & Communication
With a career dedicated to the exploration of qualitative lighting design, Thomas Schielke’s research interests delve into ways in which light can enhance architectural expression and convey semantic qualities. His examinations extend to the historical influences on contemporary light patterns, technologies, and visualization techniques. This keen interest plays a crucial role in understanding how architecture interacts with light, ultimately leading to innovations in design practices. Thomas’s work is characterized by a fundamental belief that lighting is not merely a functional element but a significant design component that profoundly influences the experience of space.
Moreover, his skill in communication and branding within the architectural field enhances his ability to convey complex ideas clearly and effectively. His teachings, writings, and public speaking engagements reflect his dedication to fostering an appreciation of lighting as a critical element in architecture. His ability to articulate these concepts has made a lasting impression on both students and seasoned professionals alike.
In conclusion, Thomas Schielke stands out as a visionary in the field of architectural lighting. His journey from academia to the corporate realm of lighting design, combined with his commitment to teaching and sharing knowledge, places him at the forefront of contemporary lighting practices. As he continues to innovate and inspire, Thomas remains a pivotal figure in illuminating the future of architecture.
tags':['Architectural lighting','Lighting design','Didactic communication','University lectures','Branding and identity','Lighting technology','Sustainable design','Creative research','Architectural education','Professional workshops','Lighting seminars','Lighting publications','International speaker','Architectural guides','Visualisation techniques','Lighting patterns','Cultural and technological influence','Qualitative design'],
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