Honoring Excellence in Architectural Lighting Design

Accolades

Recognized globally for innovation, expertise, and contributions to the field, Glenn Merlin Johnson and Adaptive Design Group Inc. continue to set the standard as the premier architectural lighting designer.
Pioneering Architectural Lighting Design with Innovation & Precision

Architectural Lighting Designer: A Legacy of Light

With a career spanning decades, Glenn Merlin Johnson has redefined the artistry of illumination lighting, blending advanced technology with timeless design principles. His pioneering work in the field has positioned him as one of the most respected figures in architectural and interior lighting.

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Award-Winning Designs

Honored with the International Illumination Design Award, Glenn’s projects exemplify the highest standards in lighting design.

Industry Leadership

A thought leader, educator, and speaker, Glenn has helped shape modern architectural lighting methodologies.

Precision & Innovation

The Adaptive Method® and patented illumination systems have revolutionized Architectural Lighting Design.

Illuminated Discourse

Shaping the Conversation in Architectural Lighting

Glenn Merlin Johnson’s insights as an architectural lighting designer have influenced the industry through publications, speaking engagements, and expert contributions. His thought leadership continues to drive innovation in residential and commercial lighting solutions.

The Smart Home Podcast Featuring Guest Glenn Merlin Johnson

 The Smart Home Podcast Featuring Guest Glenn Merlin Johnson 650 487 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.

Cedia Expo 2023: Glenn Johnson Speaking

 Cedia Expo 2023: Glenn Johnson Speaking 650 487 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.

KSL Real Estate Show – Glare vs. Glow: How to Choose Intelligent Lighting

 KSL Real Estate Show – Glare vs. Glow: How to Choose Intelligent Lighting 650 487 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.

The Cinegration Station: With Glenn Merlin Johnson

 The Cinegration Station: With Glenn Merlin Johnson 650 487 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.
2023 Panel on Lighting Design

2023 Panel on Lighting Design

 2023 Panel on Lighting Design 589 589 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.

Total Tech Summit 2022: Glenn Johnson Speaking

 Total Tech Summit 2022: Glenn Johnson Speaking 650 487 Adaptive Design Group, Inc.
Testimonials

Trusted by Architects, Designers & Clients Worldwide

Our work speaks for itself, but our clients say it best. Discover why top architects, interior designers, and luxury homeowners trust Glenn Merlin Johnson as a visionary architectural lighting designer.

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Glenn and the Adaptive Team worked wonders for our home from concept to completion, right down to the button press setting the lighting scenes and mood for our home. The results are breathtaking. We would highly recommend Adaptive Design Group.

Scott & Kathleen Nichols

Glenn and his team are absolute professionals in all they do.  From the start of design to the final focusing, Adaptive Design Group worked hand and hand with our entire team.  Their attention to details, quick response time, engagement of a true partnership and their love of what they do sets them apart from the rest.

Chad R. Burgoyne, Project Director, Kitchell Custom Homes, Santa Barbara Ca.

“Glenn is truly professional in the field of lighting design”

David Geffen , David Geffen Records & DreamWorks: SKG films

“In the past 10 years we have found that we can no longer neglect the lighting & electrical design aspect of the custom home. There is so much to offer but few professionals maximizing the home’s potential.”

Custom Builder

“We Engaged Glenn Johnson to develop lighting for our Rockport, Maine “Home,” because we heard from many sources that we was the best and he did not disappoint us. The overall result can only be described as stunningly beautiful. I would high recommend Glenn to anyone looking for an expert. I believe he has no equal.”

David R. Holmes, Chairman, CEO of Reynolds & Reynolds

“Glenn M. Johnson and his company Adaptive Design Group, Inc. are a delight to work with. Their knowledge, team work and documentation is the best in the industry. The end result is always visually stunning, and highly functional.”

Mark Hoffenberg, President, Audio Visions, Irvine, CA &"1999 CEDIA Dealer of the year"

“Adaptive Design Group, Inc. is able to address various types of lighting issues and had contributed lighting design solutions complementary to the architectural design concepts, all within the client’s budgets. I highly recommend Adaptive Design Group, Inc.”

Michael C.F. Chan, Chan and Associates, Inc.

“I have worked with a number of well respected lighting designers, but Glenn M. Johnson and Adaptive Design Group, Inc.’s work stands out among them. Their attention to detail, passion for the craft and unparalleled knowledge of lighting guarantees to both me and our clients that the end result will always exceed our expectations.”

Theo Kalomirakis, Pres. TK Theatres, New York, NY
Glenn M. Johnson, LC, IALD, principal lighting design, has received the

International Illumination Design Award

The International Illumination Design Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the field, awarded to designers whose work exemplifies mastery as an architectural lighting designer. Glenn Merlin Johnson received this honor for his groundbreaking interior lighting projects, reinforcing his role as a pioneer in the industry.

Glenn’s award-winning designs showcase a seamless fusion of technology, artistry, and functionality, setting a global benchmark for architectural lighting solutions.

lighting design
architectural lighting designer
architectural lighting designer
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Industry Recognition & Credentials

A Leader in Architectural Lighting Design

Glenn Merlin Johnson’s contributions to architectural lighting design extend beyond his award-winning projects. As a recognized authority in the industry, he actively shapes lighting design standards through professional affiliations, certifications, and leadership roles. His expertise has influenced the next generation of designers, ensuring excellence in the field for years to come.

Glenn Merlin Live: Insight and Strategy

Influential Member – Glenn is a corporate member of the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD), the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA), and the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). These memberships reflect his commitment to advancing architectural lighting design and setting industry benchmarks for quality, innovation, and sustainability.

Certified Expertise – As a Lighting Certified (LC) professional by the National Council on Qualifications for the Lighting Professions (NCQLP), Glenn has demonstrated mastery in lighting design and application. Additionally, his background as a licensed California electrical contractor (C10 General Electrical License) and member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) further establishes his technical and design credentials.

Respected Judge – Recognized for his expertise, Glenn has served as a judge for the International Illumination Design Awards (IIDA), evaluating top-tier architectural lighting projects worldwide. His role in this prestigious program underscores his ability to assess and uphold the highest standards in interior and exterior lighting design.

Teaching & Speaking Engagements

Educating the Next Generation of Lighting Designers

Glenn Merlin Johnson has dedicated his career to sharing knowledge and advancing the architectural lighting design profession through books, lectures, and industry contributions.

Author & Educator

Glenn is the author of the definitive work “The Art of Illumination; Residential Lighting Design,” published by McGraw-Hill. Recognized as a cornerstone in architectural lighting design, his book has been adopted by 25+ colleges and universities as the premier text on the artistic and technical applications of lighting in luxury residential spaces. His expertise continues to shape the next generation of lighting designers and industry professionals.

International Speaker

A sought-after expert in architectural lighting design, Glenn presents on The Adaptive Method® and advanced illumination strategies at leading industry conferences, trade expos, and academic institutions worldwide. As a panelist, guest lecturer, and podcast contributor, he shares insights on lighting innovation, technology integration, and artistic applications in high-end residential and commercial projects.

Industry Contributor

Beyond his book, Glenn regularly contributes to industry-leading blogs, trade publications, and design journals. As a columnist for Park City Home Magazine, he has provided expert insights into residential lighting design, adaptive lighting techniques, and emerging technologies. His thought leadership continues to influence both professionals and enthusiasts in the field of illumination.

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