21c Museum Hotel, Galleries

Chicago

Design Architect:

TenBerke

Photography:

Ryan Cowden

We work with light as a tool for atmosphere, contrast, and clarity. In contemporary art spaces, lighting isn’t just functional, it shapes how each piece is seen and felt. Whether framing a sculpture, guiding a visitor through a gallery, or setting the mood of a corridor, we use darkness with intention and light with precision.

Beam angles, optics, and distribution are selected only where needed, supporting the artwork rather than distracting from it. We work closely with the art team, understanding the stories behind each piece so the lighting reinforces the narrative. The result is a calm, focused environment where light reveals what matters and the space becomes part of the experience.

- Panos Ferentinos for Illuminationworks