Our award-winning lighting team combines interdisciplinary expertise in architecture, interior, urban planning, theatre, film, and lighting design

Michael Grubb, founder and managing director at Michael Grubb Studio

Michael Grubb

Founder + Managing Director

Michael has worked globally on award-winning projects, partnering with leading brands to develop their unique “language of light” and enhance brand values. His expertise is widely recognised in the international lighting industry, where he is a sought-after speaker at major events. Committed to sharing his passion, Michael continually seeks innovative ways to engage with industry professionals and contribute his renowned knowledge. Michael’s innovation and vision led him to be crowned UK Lighting Designer of the Year in 2012.

Mike Cascarino

Head of London Studio

Starting in theatrical lighting before transitioning to architectural lighting, Mike has built a diverse career. His experience spans private residential, hospitality, retail, corporate, and civic projects, giving him insight into each sector’s needs. Mike’s global work includes projects across the UK, Europe, South East Asia, the UAE, and the Caribbean. Mike’s expertise has been recognised further through a number of industry accolades, where his dedication and contribution to projects has secured RIBA, LIT and [d]arc awards.

Melissa Byers

Melissa Byers

Head of Bournemouth Studio

Melissa designs for prestigious projects including lighting masterplans and strategies, public realm, retail, visitor experiences and museums. Her background in film and television enhances her ability to create compelling narratives through lighting. With a strong focus on both creative and technical design, she excels in pragmatic project management. Melissa is known for her collaboration in multidisciplinary teams, ensuring that projects thoughtfully consider both people and place while adhering to budget and program.

Rachael Flint

Associate

Rachael brings extensive industry experience, having worked on numerous award-winning projects across London, Oxfordshire, and Australia. Her deep understanding of both national and international project challenges complements her exceptional project management skills, organization, and attention to detail. Rachael takes a collaborative approach, using lighting as a narrative tool to develop highly creative proposals. She is passionate about making design accessible, ensuring spaces adapt to the needs of various users and that quality design is available to all.

Daniela Cordova

Senior Lighting Designer

Daniela has worked at award-winning lighting design studios, delivering projects for notable brands. With a background in architecture and interior design, she believes close collaboration fosters innovation. Joining Michael Grubb Studio to enhance her technical skills and creativity, she thrives in multidisciplinary teams. Her strong organization and time management enable her to contribute to high-standard projects across retail, public spaces, museums, and hospitality, bringing passion and expertise to every endeavour.

Daniela Rendon

Daniela Rendon

Project Lighting Designer

Daniela joined Michael Grubb Studio to further develop her skills after earning a BA (Hons) in Interior Architecture and Design from Arts University Bournemouth. She provides technical and creative support with precision, creativity, and a calm approach, even under pressure. Her experience working with high-profile organizations in Italy and Spain, combined with her education, has equipped her with diverse technical and practical skills, making her a valuable asset to the team.

Anna Freiesleben, project lighting designer at Michael Grubb Studio

Anna Freiesleben

Project Lighting Designer

Anna joined Michael Grubb Studio to expand her knowledge of placemaking through light, supporting projects with her conceptual design and visual representation skills. With a background in architecture and urban design, she focuses on project narratives and socio-political contexts. Her past work involved community-driven design strategies, from villages to cities. Notably, she showcased an immersive light installation at the 2018 Venice Biennale and won a Silver Creative Conscience Award for her thesis on mental, social, and physical boundaries.

Abbie Hill

Lighting Designer

Abbie brings extensive knowledge and design experience from her previous role and degree. She views lighting as essential in design and architecture, demonstrated in her final portfolio project, “The Social Search,” where she focused on wayfinding to create an immersive experience. Abbie has built on her education with work as a design intern at a luxury interiors brand, expanding her skills. Her passion, creativity, and natural design flair make her a valuable team member, delivering unique user experiences.

Oliver Dewes, lighting design assistant at Michael Grubb Studio

Oliver Dewes

Assistant Lighting Designer

Oliver’s lighting interests include how lighting alters materials, influences behaviour through colour temperature and control, and invites play as an interactive element. He excels in visualising lighting designs, helping to effectively present ideas. Naturally inquisitive, Oliver enjoys learning how things work, drawing on the expertise of the team at MGS. He is skilled at breaking down complex problems and finding solutions, even when they are challenging, making him a thoughtful and resourceful designer.

Orla McKee, lighting design assistant at Michael Grubb Studio

Orla McKee

Assistant Lighting Designer

Orla’s passion for lighting began during university, where she explored its creative potential to shape spaces and influence moods. Her final project, “The Creator,” was an immersive exhibition space that allowed users to navigate freely and control their own experience. Orla’s strengths as a designer include creativity, innovative thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving. With a strong attention to detail, she crafts imaginative, immersive environments where lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping user interaction and experience.

Sarah Knight

Sarah Knight

Financial Administrator

Sarah completed her NVQ in accounting in 2009 and has since gained extensive experience in both accountancy practice and SME sectors, particularly in the shipping and leisure industries. She previously spent seven years at Hampshire Ambulance Service, advancing from emergency call handling to managing ambulances for half the county. Sarah now manages the day-to-day financial operations at Michael Grubb Studio while also studying for her ACCA chartered qualification.

Teresa Heaven

PA to Founder + Managing Director

Teresa plays a crucial role in supporting daily operations, including diary management, scheduling, client liaison, and event organization. Known for her excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills, she ensures smooth company operations and provides essential support. Teresa earned her CIPD Level 3 qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, showcasing her commitment, knowledge, and ethical standards.