Chicago Proud. Powered by Collaboration.

Since Aurora Lighting Design’s founding in 2005 by industry leader Leslie M. North, we have been guided by a simple but powerful idea — appropriate lighting.

Now, as a Reed Burkett Lighting Design (RBLD) studio, this partnership gives our clients the responsive, hands-on collaboration of a deeply rooted Chicago team backed by expanded resources, niche expertise and diverse talent.

“This collaboration broadens our combined impact while maintaining our commitment to deliver the creative, client-centered solutions that define our teams.” – Lisa J. Reed, Principal & CEO of RBLD.

In the science of light, we call this phenomenon constructive interference — two light waves, perfectly aligned, combine and create a single, brighter wave with a greater impact than the sum of its parts.

No matter the location or project sector, our collaborative team delivers lighting designs that are technically brilliant, emotionally resonant, and fundamentally enhance the human experience.

Learn MoreOur Team

Chicago Proud. Powered by Collaboration.

Since Aurora Lighting Design’s founding in 2005 by industry leader Leslie M. North, we have been guided by a simple but powerful idea — appropriate lighting.

Now, as a Reed Burkett Lighting Design (RBLD) studio, this partnership gives our clients the responsive, hands-on collaboration of a deeply rooted Chicago team backed by expanded resources, niche expertise and diverse talent.

“This collaboration broadens our combined impact while maintaining our commitment to deliver the creative, client-centered solutions that define our teams.” – Lisa J. Reed, Principal & CEO of RBLD.

In the science of light, we call this phenomenon constructive interference — two light waves, perfectly aligned, combine and create a single, brighter wave with a greater impact than the sum of its parts.

COMBINED EXPERTISE

For more than two decades, we have designed luminous solutions for Chicago’s leading sectors and iconic spaces.

Now, as an RBLD studio — internationally recognized for culture, civic and outdoor environment projects — we can illuminate an even more diverse range of spaces where Chicagoans visit, learn, work, play, shop, and heal.

  • Cultural & Civic

  • Corporate & COMMERCIAL

  • Healthcare

  • Hospitality & Retail

  • Institutional & Education

  • Outdoor Environments

Working from the iconic Board of Trade building, we have built a reputation among Chicago’s leading architects, developers, and institutions for delivering a blend of imaginative lighting solutions, technical expertise, and responsive team collaboration.

As RLBD’s Chicago studio, we proudly carry our foundational principles and thoughtful approach to creating dynamic, wellness-supporting environments into the next chapter.

Our deep understanding of the tone required of each project complements RBLD’s robust portfolio of cultural, commercial, outdoor environment, higher education, healthcare, and retail projects and strengthens our collective leadership in the lighting design industry.

“With enhanced resources and shared expertise, we'll deliver even more impactful designs that address project constraints and truly inspire.” - Carla Bukalski, Principal - Strategy & Operations

Our Chicago Studio Team