Lightapalooza 2025, scheduled for January 20-23 at the Hilton Anatole Dallas, will feature the most comprehensive course schedule in its four-year history, including a new educational “tracks” format and new instructors who teach lighting science courses at the university level.
Among the tracks, the Academia Series of education sessions features esteemed university professors and researchers who will offer insights and a scholarly perspective on lighting design. This series is important because while it offers the opportunity to learn the science of lighting for attendees at any level of competency, there are also specific sessions targeting the most experienced integrators and practitioners of lighting design.
Lightapalooza Executive Director Tom Doherty added that what all six of the Academia Series presenters have in common is that “using their stellar academic foundations, research, and practice, they have advanced the understanding of the science of light and lighting, how it impacts people, and the perception of built environments. Perhaps most importantly, through their teaching they have helped develop the next generation of researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field.”
The Academia Series is touted by Lightapalooza as a “one-of-a-kind opportunity” within the CI channel to learn from the very best scholars on the “leading edge of illumination science, standards, theory, and practice.” For example, Kevin Houser (PhD, PE, FIES, LC, LEED AP) will teach a workshop for practitioners who are proficient-to-expert an outstanding opportunity to extend and deepen their knowledge base. Elite integrators will learn approaches to further elevate the most challenging and expansive projects.
Houser has significantly advanced the field of spectral design in lighting, focusing on creating light sources that enhance both visual and biological responses. His work bridges vision science and engineering to design lighting that better aligns with human perceptual and circadian needs.
Houser’s five patents have made a notable impact in the lighting industry, particularly in human-centric lighting (HCL) and color rendering technology. His inventions, including the “Dim to Vivid” spectrum-tuning technology developed through his company, Lyralux, have contributed to improved color accuracy and adaptability of lighting for various environments, and is important for designed spaces where precise color rendering is critical. This innovation allows lighting to maintain vibrant color perception even at low brightness levels.
Just one of the six tracks at Lightapalooza 2025, the Academia Series alone will feature 22 hours education sessions. Among them are two sessions accessible to attendees with any level of experience. All other Academia Series sessions are designed for practitioners ranging from intermediate to expert levels of knowledge, capability, and experience.
In addition, Lightapalooza 2025 will feature tracks on Lighting Fundamentals Certification, Advancing Skills, Business, Power Fundamentals and Advanced Design, and Advanced Control.
“SHINE (Specialists in Home Illumination Natural Light and Energy Control) Lighting Fundamentals Certification” is designed for beginners eager to master the fundamentals of lighting. This eight-hour certification course, presented by expert lighting professionals and designers, dives deep into the technical aspects of lighting, performance fixtures, and control basics.
Spread over two consecutive days with hands-on lab sessions, participants will gain practical experience to complement the in-depth lectures. Offered twice during the conference, attendees who pass the final exam will earn the Lightapalooza Lighting Fundamentals Certification. Seats are limited, so don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your lighting knowledge.
Led by certified lighting design professionals, the “Advancing Skills” track delves into advanced lighting techniques and strategies. Participants will explore fixture selection, placement, and quality differentiation, while learning about human-centric lighting and scene-setting approaches. Through hands-on sessions and expert guidance, attendees will gain practical skills to defend their fixture choices, correctly space recessed lights, and illuminate artwork. Ideal for those ready to refine their lighting design expertise, this track equips professionals with essential tools to enhance every lighting project.
Led by industry experts specializing in marketing, business analysis, and operational improvements, the “Business” track offers practical strategies for expanding your business in lighting, shading, and power management. Across five focused sessions, business owners will learn how to optimize sales processes, develop a growth-driven marketing plan, enhance financial efficiency, and streamline operations. Participants will also gain insights into building and retaining a high-performing team. This track equips you with actionable tools to boost profitability, improve business processes, and secure sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Led by professionals with real-world expertise in luxury residential construction and technology, the “Power Fundamentals and Advanced Design” track covers the essential knowledge needed to navigate modern electrical systems. Attendees will dive deep into advanced topics such as solar power, battery backups, and generator systems, while mastering electrical fundamentals like voltage, current, and power types. Sessions will also cover renewable energy system design, offering practical guidance from concept to execution. This track equips participants with the skills and confidence to design and implement efficient, reliable power solutions for residential projects.
Finally, the courses within the “Advanced Design, and Advanced Control” track dive deep into the world of advanced lighting control systems featuring DMX and DALI 2.0 protocols. Participants can start with an introductory overview of both systems, followed by detailed design strategies tailored for DALI 2.0 and DMX-based lighting projects. Hands-on sessions will offer practical experience with system configurations, equipping participants with the skills to implement these protocols in luxury residential and commercial projects. Perfect for professionals looking to master modern control technologies, this track provides the expertise needed to handle sophisticated lighting control challenges.
In addition to education, the Lightapalooza exhibitor show floor again will feature a select, focused, and curated group of manufacturers and providers with a demonstrated commitment to the luxury residential custom integration channel. In addition to displaying state-of-the art home illumination, natural light optimization, and energy control products the exhibitors play a valuable role in the relationship network integrators rely upon as they evolve and grow their businesses.
Lightapalooza will host a reception for the Dallas ASID chapter and ICAA (Institute of Classical Architecture and Art) on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, in an effort to further relationships between the lighting design and broader design communities.
On Monday, January 20, 2025, Lightapalooza will host a Welcome Reception for all attendees.
