46. What to Think About When Designing Park Lighting with Gary Jacquard
Description
46. What to Think About When Designing Park Lighting with Gary Jacquard
Behind every welcoming park at night is a thoughtful lighting design. In this episode of PodParks, host Maria Burnett speaks with Gary Jacquard, General Export Manager at Eclatec, about how cities can use lighting to create atmosphere, comfort and safety without compromising biodiversity.
From the glow of Paris’ historic lamp posts to smart lighting systems that adapt to use and season, Gary shares how technology and design can work together to make parks more inviting and sustainable. They also discuss why lighting should be considered early in park planning and how small choices in tone, brightness and placement can transform the way people experience public space.
Highlights include:
- Why brighter doesn’t always mean safer
- How early design decisions shape the feel of a park
- The growing role of smart lighting and sensors in public spaces
- Balancing light for people and biodiversity
- How regional culture and climate influence lighting design
Whether you’re a planner, designer or someone who enjoys an evening walk, this episode sheds light on how design decisions after dark can make parks more welcoming for everyone.
Featured Guests
Gary Jacquard, General Export Manager, Eclatec
Eclatec is part of the Agora Makers group, which brings together Metalco and other European companies that blend heritage design, innovation and sustainability in lighting and street furniture. World Urban Parks is proudly sponsored by Agora Makers!
Feedback
🎧 Give feedback on this episode here.
Or if you’d like to share your perspectives or stories about this episode, or contact us for any reason, you can email Maria Burnett (host) and the team at research@worldurbanparks.org.
About PodParks
PodParks is the official podcast of World Urban Parks. Hosted by Maria Burnett, each episode shares real stories and bold ideas from the people making parks, public space, and urban nature more inclusive, innovative, and essential.
🎙️ Meet the PodParks Team
Maria Burnett | Luis Romahn | Vitoria Martín Delgado | Vladimir Yañez Huehpa| Cynthia Hernández Martínez| Boris Solis
United States
