beneath the surface blog

  1. Backlit Art

    Let’s delve into the topic of backlighting art. There are nearly endless options for the creation of art, but often, the material or inks in most art are not translucent. This is one of the biggest challenges in backlighting art as most pigments and substrates are not designed with translucency in mind. To achieve adequate […]

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  2. Backlit Glass

    Glass surfaces reign supreme when it comes to overall volume in backlit designs. It offers versatility in applications such as floors, ceilings, columns, elevator cabs, and reception desks. Glass surfaces are highly durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for both commercial interiors and exteriors. With their timeless appeal and clean aesthetic, glass panels […]

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  3. Backlit Acrylic and Resin

    Resins and acrylics are widely favored for their versatility as surface materials. Whether you prefer a sterile white aesthetic or vibrant colors, resin-based panels offer designers a predictable backdrop for backlit features. Acrylics, on the other hand, are lighter in weight and typically available in larger sizes, providing a more predictable outcome for custom projects. […]

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  4. Natural wood material suitable for backlighting

    Did you know that real wood can be transformed into translucent panels? It’s remarkable! With its inherent warmth, natural wood panels can be milled incredibly thin to less than half a millimeter, creating a one-of-a-kind natural backlit surface option. Similar to stone, real wood establishes a timeless connection to our surrounding environment. However, when backlit, […]

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  5. Glass used for backlighting

    Glass surfaces reign supreme when it comes to overall volume in backlit designs. It offers versatility in applications such as floors, ceilings, columns, elevator cabs, and reception desks. Glass surfaces are highly durable and easy to clean, making them suitable for both commercial interiors and exteriors. With their timeless appeal and clean aesthetic, glass panels […]

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  6. Stone for Backlighting

    When you think of translucent natural stone, what comes to mind? Let’s explore the captivating possibilities inherent in backlit stone surface options. In the past, only a small selection of onyx and alabaster permitted adequate light transmission. However, thanks to advancements in stone thinning processes, many other stones once considered opaque are now used as […]

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  7. Assess the Surface

    Surface assessment refers to the process of thoroughly evaluating the characteristics and performance for which you’re considering. Remember, the surface acts as the face of your feature; once backlit, it undergoes a transformation. Backlighting will drastically change the surface’s appearance. Understanding the shifts and changes that occur behind the surface is crucial in achieving your […]

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  8. The Fundamentals of Backlighting

    Let’s delve into the fundamentals of backlighting design. Achieving a well-balanced backlit feature entails a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between surface, lighting, and structural elements. The structural system impacts the diffusion cavity, which in turn influences the lighting approach, ultimately transforming the surface. Given the myriad combinations and adaptations involved, it is evident that […]

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  9. Introducing our Summer Intern | Bobby Turk

    Summer is a time of fresh beginnings, and at GPI Design, we are thrilled to have welcomed a talented and driven intern, Bobby, to our team. A soon-to-be junior at Miami University of Ohio, Bobby, has proven to be an invaluable asset to our design team. Going Above and Beyond From day one, Bobby’s enthusiasm […]

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  10. Backlighting Stories: Bespoke Projects

    Live webinar hosted by LEDCONN LEDCONN + GPI Design focus on forming connections among people and lighting to enhance the human experience, create art and cultivate statements that push the boundaries of design. Tom Lawrence | Founder + Principal Tom Lawrence is the Founder + Principal of GPI Design, a Cleveland based design-build firm that creates one-of-a-kind […]

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  11. Selecting Translucent Stones for Backlighting

    Utilizing backlit stone in your interior design is a nod to Mother Nature, now modernized with technology and illumination. Because translucent stone is a building material not seen or used every day, here we walk you through some tips on selecting translucent stones for your next backlit feature. Did you know that many natural stones […]

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  12. Backlit Glass

    Illuminated Art Footbridge | Bay St. Bridge

    Toronto, ON: This expansive 129’ long bridge in downtown Toronto, connecting the Scotiabank Arena and Union Station Bus Terminal in the CIBC SQUARE, features a striking illuminated art piece along the walls. Through fine engineering and meticulously tailored lighting and detailing, renowned artist Nicolas Baier’s vision comes to life with vivid illumination. A custom designed […]

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  13. Mock It Up So You Don’t Muck It Up

    What is your favorite part of a project? Is it the concept phase where you’re spitting out wild ideas? Is it the more technical stage working through logistics and challenges? Maybe it’s the final steps of install where you see your vision in complete reality? For us at GPI design, the favorite part of a […]

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