As a lead lighting designer on one of the most recognized national memorials constructed in recent times, Randy Burkett, president and design principal of Webster Groves-based Randy Burkett Lighting Design Inc. (RBLDI), left a lasting impression for the world to see. RBLDI, in collaboration with New Jersey-based David Mintz, received an Award of Merit for their lighting design of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial at the 29th Annual International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD) International Lighting Design Awards held in Las Vegas on May 10.

Out of more than 200 submitted projects from around the word, the RBLDI/Mintz team was one of 15 winners, representing architectural lighting design projects from seven countries. Of the 15 projects recognized, two entries earned Special Citations, six earned Awards of Merit and seven earned Awards of Excellence.

Forty years after the death of Martin Luther King, Jr., a memorial built in his honor opened to the public on August 22, 2011. President Obama gave the keynote address to more than 10,000 people in attendance at the dedication ceremony. The vast amount of visitors to the memorial each day further underscores its significance.

“We spent several years formulating and designing the intricate details of the lighting that went into the project to make sure it not only lived up to our standards, but also those who we knew would visit to honor the legacy of Dr. King,” said Burkett. “To be fortunate enough to receive such high regards for that work, on an international platform, and out of so many remarkable entries, is truly an honor.”

Strategically located on the Tidal Basin in the National Mall, the memorial includes the “Mountain of Despair”, the “Stone of Hope” and the “Inscription Walls”. Light was used to enhance key elements for visitors at night, as well as produce a dramatic visual contrast between structures and accentuate the memorial’s overall symbolism.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Foundation through its architect, McKissack & McKissack, selected RBLDI, in collaboration with Mintz, for the lighting design in 2007 and the lighting was installed between February and June of 2011.

* * *

Award-winning Randy Burkett Lighting Design Inc. is known internationally for its work on projects of all sizes and magnitude. In the St. Louis region alone, the firm has illuminated the Jefferson National Memorial Gateway Arch, Grand Center, St. Louis Science Center, the Jewel Box, the Old Post Office and Customs House, Lumiere Place, and City Garden. Randy Burkett Lighting Design Inc. is currently commissioned for projects in Mexico, China, Russia and Korea. International work will increase in the coming years as it takes on projects that require the unmatched level of expertise upon which the firm has built its reputation. Visit www.rbldi.com for more information about Randy Burkett Lighting Design Inc.

# # #