Submissions for the inaugural Beacon Awards have now closed.
The Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY) is proud to present this inaugural annual awards program, which recognizes exceptional lighting design in built projects within the greater New York metropolitan region.
The Beacon Awards originated from a collaboration among the late Caroline Rinker, Co-Founder of O’Blaney Rinker Associates and Co-Chair of LEDucation; Charles Pavarini III, Founder of Pavarini Design; and Donna Sumner, Director of Architectural Product Solutions at Acuity Brands and Brian Smith, Director of Lighting at Journey.
In an interview with Charles Pavarini III, Founder of Pavarini Design, I inquired about the motivations behind creating the Beacon Awards. Pavarini explained that the primary goal is to increase scholarship funds. He also emphasized the importance of honoring industry peers and their work. “By recognizing their achievements, we can inspire younger designers and create a more vibrant community,” he stated. “And what better way to do this than by celebrating those who are already making a difference?”
Furthermore, Pavarini noted that the DLFNY identified a gap in other awards: product design. They sought to establish an award that recognized excellence in this area. He also highlighted the ICON Award, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the lighting industry.
The Beacon Awards are also honoring the late Lana Lenar, a former President of DLFNY and a respected figure in the lighting industry. Known for her unwavering support of the New York City lighting community, Lenar’s legacy will live on through the Lenar Lighting Empowerment Scholarship. This scholarship aims to nurture the next generation of designers who are inspired and passionate about the power of light.
Caroline Rinker will be honored at the 1st Annual Beacon Awards
The Designers Lighting Forum of New York (DLFNY) announces it will posthumously honor Caroline Rinker, a prominent figure in the New York City lighting community, with an ICON Award at the first annual Beacon Awards.
A single project will be recognized in each of the following categories:
- Residential
- Commercial and Institutional
- Hospitality and Retail
- Exteriors
- New York Project
- Product Design
Winners will be announced on October 9, 2024, at the historic Sony Hall in midtown New York City. Sony Hall opened in 1938 as the Diamond Horseshoe and quickly became one of the most iconic venues of the vaudeville era. In March 2018, Sony Hall officially reopened its doors with much of its original history and dynamic design and décor elements still kept in-tact.