Within Light Studio

Within Light Studio is an architectural lighting design firm with studios in Los Angeles and Chicago. Established in 2020 by Mara Villegas and Wes Burdett, Within Light Studio is the culmination of over a decade spent in luxury hospitality lighting design. Each project in their global portfolio — be it restaurants, bars, or hotels – has shaped their dual roles as both artists and engineers. For Mara and Wes, the design philosophy is clear: lighting and the human experience are inextricably linked. At the core of the award-winning team at Within Light Studio are trust, process and enduring relationships. Collaboration with interior designers, architects, and clients is essential, elevating each project from initial concept to final installation. A pivotal moment in this journey is the human-centric final focusing phase – a hands-on, fine-tuned adjustment that comes alive during site installation. Here, they address real-world variables, such as environmental light interferences and unexpected visual connections, to ensure the design is as functional as it is beautiful. Driven by the interplay of light and emotion, Within Light Studio is committed to enhancing how people feel and engage with the built environment- Within Light Studio projects have been featured in such publications as A+L Magazine, Architectural Digest, Interior Design Magazine, and the book of The Second Ibero-American Biennial of Lighting Design.