An Interview with Carrie Hawley as She Discusses the HLB Merger with CS Design
HLB Lighting Design, the world’s largest independent lighting design firm, has announced its merger with CS Design, a highly respected Montreal-based lighting design firm. The move marks a significant expansion for HLB, solidifying its presence in Canada while advancing its vision of making a global impact through innovative lighting solutions.
A Strategic Evolution
I spoke to HLB’s CEO and Senior Principal, Carrie Hawley. She told me that this merger is more than just an expansion—it represents a pivotal moment in the firm’s history. “We have been working on our strategy for quite a while, shifting gears to make a worldwide impact and bring innovative lighting solutions to everyone,” she explained. “Our long-term strategy is about global stewardship and empowering billions of people across all continents.”
The partnership with CS Design was years in the making. Carrie and Conor Sampson, founder of CS Design, have shared a professional connection for over two decades, growing alongside each other in the industry. Many members of the HLB team have also known Conor for years, further strengthening the collaboration. Over the last 20 months, discussions about shared values, business philosophies, and strategic goals led to the realization that merging their firms would create new opportunities for both teams and their clients.
“CS Design is a well-regarded firm with a strong reputation for design excellence,” Carrie said. “Their values align with ours, and we saw a great opportunity to expand into Canada in a meaningful way.”
A People-First Approach
CS Design’s team of eight will integrate into HLB’s unique boutique studio model, operating as HLB Lighting Design-Montreal. “This merger isn’t just about expansion—it’s about mentorship and growth,” Hawley noted. “Conor is an incredible teacher at McGill, and his team’s approach complements our own. Together, we are fostering the next generation of lighting leaders.”
CS Design’s cultural and linguistic diversity, with strong ties to French, French-Canadian, Moroccan, and Mexican communities, brings a unique advantage to HLB’s global strategy. “CS Design thrives on design excellence, and we are excited to build upon that foundation,” Carrie added.
Bridging Continents and Cultures
The integration has already begun, with key HLB leaders, including Senior Principal Ken Douglas, actively supporting the transition. The collaboration also strengthens HLB’s international reach, with CS Design’s expertise enhancing the firm’s capabilities in overseas markets.
“The combination of our teams provides unique strengths, especially as we look to expand our influence globally,” Hawley said. “We believe in making opportunities for people all over the world.”
Founded in 1968, HLB Lighting Design has continually evolved to meet the industry’s changing demands. With the CS Design merger, the firm is embracing its next 50 years with a renewed vision—one that is people-centric, globally focused, and driven by design excellence.
As HLB continues to expand its impact, one thing remains clear: the firm is not just growing—it is setting the stage for a brighter, more connected world.
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