47. Why Lighting Matters More Than You Think | Objects for Thought

Lighting is often one of the last things considered in a project, but it can completely change how we experience a space, from the way materials and colours are perceived to how the room actually feels.

In this episode of Behind the Design, I sit down with Jay and CJ, founders of Objects for Thought, to explore the thinking, process and business decisions behind their contemporary lighting brand.

This is a conversation about much more than beautiful light fittings. Jay and CJ share how their very different backgrounds in design, art, finance and electrical work eventually led them to build a lighting company, and why they deliberately chose to focus on doing one thing exceptionally well.

We talk about why lighting can make or break an interior, what happens when beautiful finishes are paired with poor-quality lighting, and the technical details that designers and homeowners often don't see.

And most importantly, Jay and CJ share what they've learned about building a creative business without letting ego drive every decision.

In this episode:

• How Objects for Thought began and how Jay and CJ found their way into lighting• Why constructive criticism is central to their creative partnership

• How they divide the business across Melbourne and Brisbane

• Why good lighting is about more than aesthetics

• How lighting quality affects colour, materials and finishes

• What electricians and trades bring to the design process

• Why Objects for Thought deliberately says no to some custom work

• How direct relationships with designers create a valuable feedback loop

• Why solving problems well can strengthen long-term client relationships

• The importance of patience when building a product-based design business

For architects, interior designers, builders and anyone interested in how thoughtful design actually comes together, this episode offers a look behind the finished product and into the decisions that make it work.

Follow Behind the Design for more conversations with the people, businesses and creatives shaping the design industry.

Follow Jay, CJ and Object for Thought

https://www.of-t.com/about

https://www.instagram.com/objectsforthought/

https://www.instagram.com/jay_jermyn/

https://www.instagram.com/cjand/

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