Dear Friends …
In our day-to-day experiences, we are constantly influenced by many factors—people, events, and even the weather. One element that is often overlooked is the lighting that surrounds us, especially within the spaces we occupy every day. While its effects may not always be obvious, lighting plays a major role in shaping mood, behavior, and perception.
Research by Mingyeh Hsieh of the Department of Architecture at Chung Yuan Christian University found that people exposed to warmer ambient lighting experienced fewer negative moods, while cooler lighting increased productivity and alertness. Understanding these effects allows designers to use light to influence color, atmosphere, and spatial perception, shaping how people experience a space.
When you enter a fine dining restaurant or a residential living space, one of the first things you notice is the lighting. It sets the tone before you have time to consciously think about it. There is a clear difference between bright overhead cafeteria lighting and the warm glow of candlelit lanterns. Each creates a different atmosphere. Bright white lighting often feels energetic and functional, while warm, dim lighting creates a sense of comfort and relaxation. Both have a purpose, and choosing the right lighting is an important part of the design process.
When thoughtfully incorporated into the design process, lighting becomes much more than a source of illumination. It is a powerful design tool that shapes how a space is seen and experienced. Through the careful use of intensity, color, direction, and shadow, designers can influence both the physical qualities of an environment and the emotions it evokes. When used effectively, light becomes a design element in its own right, shaping space, guiding perception, and creating memorable experiences for those who occupy it.
Taking Shape
Statesville Multifamily Statesville, North Carolina
Statesville Multifamily brings 121 new apartment homes to downtown Statesville, helping meet the community’s growing housing needs while strengthening the city’s urban core. Located next to the Statesville Police Department, the four-story development is designed to be a natural extension of downtown, drawing inspiration from the scale, materials, and architectural rhythms that define the surrounding civic fabric.
Owner: Delco Partners | Civil: McGill Associates, P.A. | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wave Engineering
AC Greenville Greenville, North Carolina
This proposed AC Hotel Greenville is a seven-story, 120-key hospitality destination serving visitors, alumni, business travelers, and the growing healthcare and innovation sectors surrounding East Carolina University. A vibrant rooftop experience will feature a restaurant, private dining space, rooftop bar, outdoor terrace, and flexible meeting and event space. Inspired by Greenville’s tobacco and textile manufacturing heritage, the design re-imagines the character of historic mills and warehouses through the clean lines and contemporary aesthetic of the AC Hotels brand.
Owner: CN Hotels | Civil: William G. Daniel & Associates | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wilde Engineering
Birkdale Place Building B Huntersville, North Carolina
Positioned within one of Huntersville’s most exciting new mixed-use destinations adjacent to Birkdale Village, this new retail building is designed to become a vibrant hub of activity and connection. The development will bring together shopping, dining, hospitality, and workplace opportunities, creating a dynamic environment where people can gather, explore, and engage throughout the day. Thoughtfully planned outdoor amenities help extend the experience beyond the storefronts and encourage an active, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.
Owner: Gustafson Partners | Civil: Bolton Menk | Structural: Taylor & Viola | PME: Wilde Engineering
Going Up
Technology Drive Self-Storage Johnston County, North Carolina
Conveniently located along I-40 in Johnston County, this new climate-controlled self-storage facility is designed with both function and appearance in mind. Positioned to serve the growing needs of residents and businesses throughout the region, the development offers modern, secure storage solutions in a highly accessible location. The building’s architectural design emphasizes clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and durable materials, creating a strong visual identity while complementing the surrounding community.
Owner: Johnson Development Associates, Inc. | Civil: Seamon Whiteside | Structural: O’Donnell & Naccarato PME: Wave Engineering | Contractor: Metrolina Builders
EXTRA EXTRA
Welcome Tyler!
We’re excited to welcome Tyler Black to ODA Architecture as a summer intern. Tyler is in his fourth year in the Architecture program at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and joins our team eager to expand his knowledge and gain hands-on experience in the profession.
Throughout the summer, Tyler will be working alongside our project teams, contributing to a variety of projects while continuing to develop his design and technical skills. We’re glad to have him on board and look forward to seeing all he accomplishes during his time with us.
Welcome Back Luke!
Please join us in welcoming back Luke Guthrie to ODA Architecture as a summer intern. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Luke is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architecture at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where he is also a member of the SCAD Men’s Golf Team.
We’re excited to have Luke on board as he gains hands-on experience in the profession and contributes to our team throughout the summer. Outside of architecture, Luke enjoys skiing, traveling, spending time outdoors, and staying active through tennis and basketball.
