Illume Design

Illume Design explores the intersection of materials, light, and color, creating innovative environments and products that elevate everyday experiences. By integrating light into furniture and interiors, Illume Design moves beyond traditional design to create spaces that are visually engaging and emotionally impactful, exploring the phenomenology of light and color.

Our multidisciplinary studio specializes in:

Interior Design
Furniture Design
Architecture
Graphic Design

Through thoughtful design, color psychology, and a passion for innovation, Illume Design creates distinctive solutions that inspire, connect, and transform the way people experience space.

Bio:

Richard Hess is an accomplished designer and educator with more than 25 years of experience spanning architecture, interior design, and custom furniture design, complemented by over 15 years of experience in higher education. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in architecture and interior architecture from Auburn University. He later completed his Master of Architecture at NewSchool of Architecture & Design, graduating at the top of his class.

In addition to his academic achievements, Richard is the founder of Illume Design, where his work explores the intersection of design and the phenomenology of light and color.

Richard currently serves as the Director of Career Services at his alma mater, where he also teaches thesis and portfolio development courses. Through his mentorship, he prepares emerging professionals to thrive in the dynamic and evolving fields of architecture, interior design, product design, graphic design, and construction management.

Partners:

Illume Design proudly partners with licensed architect Timothy Lambert, AIA, principal of Wellkraft Architecture. Licensed to practice architecture in both New York and California, Mr. Lambert brings more than 25 years of professional experience to projects requiring innovative and technically sophisticated design solutions. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Architecture from the School of Architecture and Planning at The Catholic University of America. In addition to his architectural licensure, Mr. Lambert is a certified Code Enforcement Officer in the State of New York. Through this partnership, Illume Design is able to provide clients with enhanced architectural expertise, code compliance knowledge, and comprehensive design services from concept through construction.

Recognitions:

- Inspiring Others Towards a Path of Fulfillment (Featured in Design Institute’s DI Details article)

- Coleman Residence, Long Island, NY, AIA Commendation Award for Historic Restoration

- Table of Light San Diego, CA, Featured on KUSI Morning Show

- Open up Your Space San Diego, CA, Fox 5 Morning Show Segment

- The Learning Never Ends San Diego, CA, DI Details Newsletter

- Inspiring Others Towards a Path to Fulfillment San Diego, CA, DI Details Newsletter

- Commencement Speaker San Diego, CA, Balboa Park

- Top 25 2016 Design Blogs International Recognition, The Global Design Post

- Top 100 Interior Design Blogs for Interior Designers and Architects, Feedspot

- Top 100 Interior Design Blogs for New Home Builders, Vision One Homes