The architectural lighting industry stands at a fascinating crossroads where human creativity meets artificial intelligence. In this thought-provoking conversation, Martin Klaasen sits down with Faraz Izhar, an architectural lighting designer with two decades of experience, who has emerged as a trailblazer in integrating AI into professional lighting design workflows.

"A little less than two years ago, rendering a photorealistic nighttime image without Photoshop seemed like wishful thinking. Now it's reality," Faraz explains, capturing the breathtaking pace at which AI has transformed from experimental curiosity to essential design tool. Leading the specialist lighting division at AE7 in Dubai, Faraz shares how his team has embraced AI as a "co-pilot" that works hand-in-hand with designers to translate creative visions into compelling visual narratives.

The conversation unveils practical applications that go far beyond simple image generation. Faraz's team has developed custom AI agents that automate luminaire schedules, verify Dark Sky compliance, and optimise costs—reducing documentation time by 60-70%. His design process begins with metaphors—"a lantern in the desert" for a Saudi hotel, or a "shimmering jewel" for a Dubai mall—which AI helps visualise before developing technical lighting solutions.

Martin and Faraz explore critical concerns about intellectual property, confidentiality, and transparency, with Faraz advocating for clear disclosure to clients about AI's role in the design process. Looking forward, both experts discuss the need for industry standards and regulations as AI becomes further embedded in professional practice.

Yet amid all this technological advancement, a reassuring message emerges: "It is our own light that will always guide the way." Human intuition, sensitivity, and creativity remain irreplaceable, with AI serving as a powerful assistant rather than a replacement for the lighting designer's unique vision and expertise.