Student Portfolio Showcase

Aleksandra Bugajska, Student IALD

Through the generous support of the lighting community, the IALD Education Trust has granted over 100 scholarships to lighting design students in a dozen countries. Students applying for one of these scholarships must submit a lighting project demonstrating their process, concept, project goals, and considerations for technical criteria. 

The IALD Education Trust is proud to showcase exemplary student work, including our 2025 Lighting Design Alliance Scholarship winner: Aleksandra Bugajska, Student IALD.

About the Student Designer

Aleksandra is an undergraduate at the California College of the Arts' Architecture Division, studying Interior Design. Alexy's work explores the fusion of technology, nature, and user interaction, pushing the boundaries of how artificial lighting can replicate and enhance natural phenomena.

The IALD Education Trust is grateful to Lisa Israel and Chip Israel, FIALD, CLD, for their generous funding of the Lighting Design Alliance Scholarship for over 25 years. 

Project Description

"This project was independently developed, focusing on the interplay of artificial lighting and spatial perception. The design integrates programmable LED strips, projectors, and track lighting to create dynamic light and shadow effects.

"While daylighting was not a primary component, the lighting system mimics natural light transitions, enhancing user interaction. My role encompassed concept development, material selection, prototyping, and technical execution, ensuring a seamless fusion of aesthetics and functionality."

Those interested in the Student Scholarship Program can find more information, including the next application period, on the IALD Education Trust website.