MENTORMOMENT John Higo lights the way
JOHN HIGO started his career in landscaping as a teenager. In his early 20s, he spent two years working in studio and stage lighting for major concerts, film
Is there anything about the lighting sector you wish could change or improve? I believe in constant improvement. I think the [landscape] industry is generally doing the right things: social responsibility, environmental impact, community engagement. I would like to see the lighting sector specifically participate more in those arenas. Describe some key factors that impact the success of illuminating a landscape. Communication is key. Good lighting should begin with the “Why?” You need to determine the motivation(s) of the homeowner, and how they use the space. Once the objective is established, coordination between other trades is key to the success. Timing is important. Lighting is usually one of the last things installed, but planning needs to happen early, for running wire, establishing connections to power, load ratings, etc. The earlier lighting is considered, the easier the installation will be. How do you stay current with best practices or trends? Fortunately, there is no shortage of information available. Trade shows and conferences are always great venues for learning. Online forums and social media are also great outlets, connecting you with professionals across the continent. I am always learning from my network of professional customers and colleagues. What about this industry excites you? So much! I hope I never stop learning! More efficient light sources, better options for controls, renewable energy advancements — the future of landscape lighting is bright (forgive the pun!). There are constant
advancements in the industry. I love that light sources are getting smaller — it opens up many more new avenues.
What projects bring you the most satisfaction?
The most satisfaction would have to come from projects that help others. From a ‘Make-A-Wish’ project, to the Highway of Heroes sculptures, to hospital gardens — these definitely bring the most satisfaction, though others may provide more design interest and opportunities. What do you know now that you wish you’d known at the start of your career? It’s interesting, in this ever-changing, ever-learning profession. I can look at a job I designed a year ago, and find some things I would do differently. I think from a design evolution standpoint, I would say perspective is the key. Look at the big picture from different perspectives, rather than individual objects, trees, plants, hardscapes, structures, etc. What advice do you have for others who might want to pursue a career in landscape lighting? If you truly want to be a successful lighting professional, you have to embrace design. Start considering the art and look at things from that perspective. Soak up knowledge. There are so many willing to share their experience. Find your niche, establish best practices and set yourselves apart from the ‘competition’ by rising above, not sinking beneath. Respect your craft and don’t cheapen it, or yourself. LT
and television, theatre, trade shows and awards events. Higo then joined Turf Care Products
Canada, where he naturally gravitated to landscape lighting products. “It was my comfort zone,” Higo said. “Twenty-six years later, I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Over that time, Higo has also held a number of volunteer positions with the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) and Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association (LO). Higo has presented at numerous industry events, and helps organize lighting symposiums. He teaches at local colleges and has given workshops on related topics, including photometric fundamentals, design and installation, advanced troubleshooting and night photography. Tell us about the work you’ve done with the Illuminating Engineering Society to help set standards and best practices for landscape lighting professionals. I began volunteering with the IESNA as a contributing author to RP-39 — a Recommended Practices document for landscape lighting. The IES is largely looked upon as the leader for lighting standards across all sectors. I’ve since contributed as a judge for their annual merit awards as well.
50 | LANDSCAPE TRADES
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