Client: Ocean 48
Location: Newport Beach, CA
Keyword: Restaurant Lighting Design
At CLI Design, we believe that lighting is more than just illumination—it’s an experience. Our work at Ocean 48, a premier dining destination in Newport Beach, CA, showcases how expertly crafted lighting can transform a space, enhance the ambiance, and elevate the dining experience. Ocean 48 combines luxury with culinary excellence, and our lighting design was integral in creating a space that mirrors that philosophy, offering diners an unforgettable atmosphere.
This project was an exciting opportunity to enhance the restaurant’s brand and architectural design through a lighting scheme that balances elegance, functionality, and sustainability. We worked closely with the team at Commercial Lighting Industries to create a space that invites guests to relax, indulge, and immerse themselves in a refined dining experience.
Lighting Strategy: Setting the Mood and Enhancing Functionality
The lighting design at Ocean 48 was carefully crafted to support the restaurant’s luxurious environment while ensuring practical functionality for both guests and staff. We implemented three main principles: ambiance, accent, and energy efficiency.
1. Sophisticated Ambiance with Warm, Dimmable Lighting
To create a cozy yet elegant dining environment, we used warm, dimmable fixtures that could be adjusted to suit various times of the day and different events. Whether it’s a lively dinner service or a romantic evening, the lighting adapts to match the mood, making every meal feel special and unique.
Soft, warm lighting was used throughout the space, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel at ease the moment they enter. Dimmable fixtures gave the team control over the ambiance, allowing them to tailor the lighting based on guest preferences or special occasions, further enhancing the experience.
2. Strategic Accents to Highlight Design Elements
We used accent lighting to draw attention to key architectural features and design elements. Whether highlighting wine displays, textured walls, or art installations, accent lighting adds depth and sophistication to the space. These lighting touches not only enhance the aesthetics but also create a visually engaging environment that immerses guests in the overall experience.
Pendant lights, wall sconces, and track lighting were placed strategically to highlight unique aspects of the décor, adding texture and dimension to the interior. The aim was to create a seamless connection between lighting and design elements, helping the space feel cohesive and inviting.
3. Energy-Efficient Solutions to Balance Aesthetics and Sustainability
At CLI Design, we are committed to sustainability, and that extends to the lighting systems we design. For Ocean 48, we integrated LED technology throughout the space, significantly reducing energy consumption and operational costs. LED lighting not only offers long-lasting performance but also produces the same high-quality illumination as traditional bulbs while using a fraction of the energy.
We also included motion sensors and dimming controls in key areas, ensuring that the lighting is only active when needed, further minimizing energy usage. This energy-efficient approach was balanced with the restaurant’s need for consistent, high-quality lighting that creates a welcoming ambiance and supports the restaurant’s eco-friendly values.
Tailored Lighting Solutions for a Unique, Coastal Aesthetic
Every restaurant has a unique identity, and the lighting should reflect that. Ocean 48 presented an opportunity to design a custom lighting solution that complements its coastal aesthetic. The lighting needed to be sophisticated and upscale while also incorporating the calming tones and serene vibe associated with coastal living.
Custom Fixtures to Reflect the Brand’s Identity
The fixtures we selected for Ocean 48 were carefully chosen to align with the restaurant’s brand and interior design. Custom-designed fixtures were integrated throughout the space, featuring materials that resonated with the coastal theme. From soft lighting elements to unique pendant lights, each fixture was selected to enhance the overall design while maintaining a high level of functionality.
By ensuring that the lighting fixtures reflected the restaurant’s identity, we helped the space maintain a cohesive and inviting feel, ensuring the lighting was as much a part of the design as the furniture and décor.
Key Lighting Innovations at Ocean 48
For this project, CLI Design implemented several innovative lighting strategies to enhance the overall experience.
Smart LED Controls
The restaurant’s lighting system was equipped with smart controls that allowed staff to adjust lighting levels based on the time of day or specific needs. This flexibility ensured that the lighting was always in sync with the restaurant’s changing atmosphere.
LED Task Lighting
The kitchen, bar area, and other service spaces received tailored lighting solutions, including task-specific LED lighting to ensure that staff had the visibility they needed while maintaining comfort and energy efficiency.
Ambient and Accent Lighting Integration
The combination of ambient lighting and accent lighting provided depth and visual interest, helping to establish a welcoming environment for guests while also allowing for a dynamic dining experience.
The Outcome: A Welcoming, Dynamic Dining Destination
The lighting design for Ocean 48 helped transform the space into a vibrant, upscale restaurant that delivers a memorable dining experience. Guests are now welcomed by an atmosphere that is both elegant and inviting, with lighting that adapts to their needs, whether they’re enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion.
From sophisticated ambiance to energy-efficient solutions, our lighting design has provided Ocean 48 with a timeless aesthetic that enhances its coastal charm while also improving the functional aspects of the space.
Designing with Purpose and Precision
At CLI Design, we are proud to have collaborated with Ocean 48 to craft a lighting design that enhances both the dining experience and operational efficiency. By combining custom fixtures, smart controls, and energy-efficient LEDs, we helped create a space that is not only beautiful but also practical and sustainable.
Looking to elevate your own restaurant or other business space with lighting that combines aesthetics and function? Contact CLI Design today to discuss how we can help bring your professional lighting vision to life.
Gabriella Halcovich is the National Account Manager at Commercial Lighting Industries, specializing in commercial lighting solutions for hospitality, restaurant, retail, and architectural projects nationwide. She partners with architects, interior designers, and developers to deliver lighting that brings spaces to life.
