Page 54 - Lighting Magazine October 2018

ROBIN BARON (continued)
left: Baron uses pops of color to accentuate the seating area, while a series of Contemporary lighting xtures and table lamps contribute to the airy feeling.
Below: Decorative lighting xtures give an elegant li to this galley kitchen.
manufacturers to get be er pricing, she’ll still o en opt to buy product through local showrooms so she’s got their added layer of service and protection.
With all of the changing trends, new o erings, and especially new sources of competition for lighting sales, Baron emphasizes that it’s crucial for designers to keep their nger on the pulse of the industry.
“There are so many lighting websites and discount websites — and the public has access to so much information now that they used to rely on us for — so it’s more important than ever for designers to be very familiar and build relationships with manufac- turers, showrooms, and other sources,” she explains. “We need to know the products and sources we’re dealing with so that we can be the experts for our cli- ents, and so they see our value. It’s disappointing to watch some of the things happening with online ven- dors who can’t be reached or refuse to assist when support is needed. We don’t want our clients to get taken in by those types of vendors,” she comments. “It’s important for designers to go to the trade shows and build relationships with manufacturers as well as sources in our local markets. We’ve got to keep up with the latest trends in style and design, busi- ness and economic outlook, and changes within our industry. Designers must be experts in the markets and industries they serve.” 
“I look to showrooms for all the technical specs I’ll need — size, weight, light output, delivery, pricing, special nishes, customization options, etc.”
a fairly simple answer. When we’re in a time crunch, every minute counts, so having quicker response times would make all the di erence to designers who are usually on deadlines.
“I’d also encourage showrooms to implement websites that make ordering easier to do online. We’re in a digital age, and I want to give priority to my trade-only vendors — especially since I know that they will stand by their product a er the sale and support and service as needed. The temptation to buy from major online retail stores will be much less if a trade-only vendor has a website that is easy to navigate and has e-commerce capabilities.
When it comes to that service and support, Baron says that even when considering buying direct from
50 enLIGHTenment Magazine | OctOber 2018
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the Designer-showroom BonD