Reed Burkett Lighting Design (RBLD) of St. Louis, MO, a distinguished Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE), is pleased to announce the integration of Aurora Lighting Design (ALD) of Chicago, IL. Known for innovative and sustainable solutions, ALD enhances our ability to deliver top-notch lighting design services and strengthens our capabilities in healthcare, corporate, educational, and other vital environments where people work, heal, and thrive.
“Bringing ALD under the RBLD umbrella marks an exciting milestone for us,” stated Lisa J. Reed, Principal & CEO of RBLD. “Their unique expertise, innovative methods, and dedication to sustainable design resonate with our growth vision. This collaboration broadens our impact while maintaining our commitment to delivering the creative, client-centered solutions that define our teams.”
“Through the past 30 years, RBLD has built lasting relationships with some of Chicago’s leading design practices. Joining forces with ALD enhances our collaborations in the city and our commitment to exceptional service. We look forward to the meaningful projects ahead” said Randy Burkett, Principal.
ALD, founded by Leslie M. North in 2005, has earned an admirable reputation as a leading force in lighting design. Their thoughtful approach blends technical knowledge with a deep understanding of the emotional tone each project requires, whether a nurturing healthcare environment or a dynamic corporate office. This creative vision complements RBLD’s robust portfolio of cultural, commercial, outdoor environment, higher education, healthcare, and retail projects, strengthening our collective leadership in the lighting design industry.
“We’re extremely excited to join forces with RBLD, bringing clients the benefits of our combined strengths,” said Leslie. “With enhanced resources and shared expertise, we’ll deliver even more impactful designs that address project constraints and truly inspire.”
Aurora Lighting Design, an RBLD Studio, will retain its Chicago, Illinois office under the leadership of Carla R. Bukalski, Principal of Strategy and Operations. Leslie will remain integral to the company as a Principal, leveraging her expertise on key projects while Carla directs the design studio and oversees daily business. This expansion advances RBLD’s growing Midwestern presence and commitment to delivering exceptional, sustainable lighting design and client service.
“Having a Chicago office reinforces our dedication to our Midwestern roots and amplifies our commitment to values that define the region, including integrity, trust, and hard work,” said Carla Bukalski.”
RBLD’s interest in uniting with ALD reaches beyond lighting expertise and reputation. It traces back to the early years of Carla’s lighting career when she worked with Leslie in Chicago and introduced her to Lisa, a friend from college. Since then, these three remarkable women have fostered a unique bond through their professional collaboration.
“Leslie, Carla, and I have built a strong foundation of admiration and support for one another, driven by our shared commitment to excellence in the lighting industry,” said Lisa Reed. “Becoming a team at RBLD is a dream come true, and we are excited to showcase the Midwest’s rich talent in creativity and lighting design.”
To ensure a smooth integration, RBLD is pleased to announce several key leadership adjustments:
- Lisa J. Reed, PE, IALD, MIES, LEED AP BD+C will now assume the role of Principal and CEO, guiding the firm’s strategic growth and long-term vision, especially as we enter this exciting new phase.
- Carla R. Bukalski, MBA, PE, LC, LEED AP recently joined RBLD as Principal of Strategy and Operations, where she is responsible for refining business strategies, overseeing operations, and ensuring that we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients. A career Chicagoan, Carla is excited to lead the Chicago studio.
- Leslie M. North, IALD, PE, LC, LEED AP will join RBLD as Principal. She will play a key role during the transition, helping ensure a smooth integration and maintaining continuity for both studios’ valued clients.
- Randy Burkett, FIALD, FIES, LC will continue as Principal focusing on design mentorship, nurturing our creative talent and continuing to drive design innovation at RBLD.