Designer Spotlight: A Q+A with Christian Bense
Known for his refined yet eclectic approach, Christian Bense has made a name for himself crafting interiors that balance timelessness with personal expression. We spoke with Christian about his design philosophy, the evolving role of lighting in interior design, and how he seamlessly integrates light as both a functional necessity and a visual asset in his projects.
Kelly: You've mentioned wanting to share more about the thinking and process behind your work. Can you walk us through a recent project where lighting played a key role in shaping the space?
Christian: We're currently designing a penthouse apartment in Mayfair where the aesthetic blends minimalism with a rich layering of natural and interesting materials. Because of this, we didn't want to distract from the design with an overwhelming number of light fixtures. Instead, we're opting for two distinct approaches: selecting statement lighting that acts as art and accessories, or opting for pared-back, concealed architectural lighting that blends into the background. This approach really speaks to us as a studio—we believe that lighting should be a visual asset, not just a practical afterthought.
Kelly: Your approach to design is deeply rooted in rationality and longevity. How do you balance timelessness with personal elements—especially when clients have sentimental art or objects they want incorporated?
Christian: Regardless of the style we establish for a client, our designs tend to lean towards the eclectic, allowing for the layering of elements that might not traditionally match on paper. A truly timeless design isn't just one that appears as though it was curated over time—it's one that doesn't need to change. By designing spaces that reflect our clients' personalities and make room for their sentimental art and objects, we create homes that don't require constant reinvention. A well-designed space should have a level of tolerance that allows clients to inject their own pieces over time without disrupting the overall aesthetic. If a design is too rigid or overly schemed, it runs the risk of feeling disconnected from the people living in it. Instead, we account for this layering from the outset, ensuring that the space evolves naturally with its inhabitants.
Kelly: We spotted a David Shrigley print among your personal art pieces. How do you approach art selection, and do you think lighting should be tailored to highlight specific pieces?
Christian: When I moved to London from South Africa, my mother would send me pieces of art in the mail for Christmas and birthdays—things that were meaningful, but easy to post in an envelope. Over the years, she sent me all my favorites from home, along with a few pieces I created in college. As a result, I have quite an organic collection of art that mixes inexpensive finds with more collectible works. I always encourage people to buy art they love rather than worrying about whether it “matches” a room. Art should be an accessory to a space, not the linchpin of the design. That said, how you display and light art makes a huge difference. Framing plays a key role, as does lighting. Strategic lighting can draw the eye to a piece—placing artwork between two sconces creates a natural focal point, while a dedicated picture light can elevate its presence. While I don't believe art needs to dictate the design, planning for where art will be placed allows for a lighting scheme that elevates its impact.
Kelly: Congratulations on five years of your studio! Looking back, has your perspective on lighting design evolved over time?
Christian: Thank you so much! Back in South Africa, I didn't think much about lighting as an accessory—it was purely functional, there to serve a purpose once the sun set. In the UK, with its gloomier days and the need for more thoughtful lighting, my perspective has shifted. Now, I see decorative lighting as more of an art form, as well as a powerful tool for layering a space. It's not just about materials and textures—it's also about adaptability. A well-thought-out lighting scheme allows a room to shift in mood throughout the day, making it more dynamic and livable.
Kelly: You're dipping into development and looking at international projects. Have you found that lighting considerations vary across different regions or architectural styles?
Christian: Absolutely. In our studio, we follow a guiding principle: first, determine what's appropriate for the home, then establish the style. Different regions and architectural styles require different lighting approaches. Some spaces may call for a highly layered lighting scheme while others benefit from a more restrained touch, so our approach to projects in the UK versus those abroad does vary.
Kelly: With features in Homes & Gardens, House & Garden, Livingetc, and more, your work is clearly resonating. What's one design or lighting misconception you wish more people understood?
Christian: Lighting doesn't just have to serve a practical purpose. You may never turn on a pendant light, but that doesn't mean the room doesn't need one. Lighting plays an architectural role in a space—it contributes to balance, depth, and visual interest. A light fixture should be valued not only for its function but for its presence within a design.
Stay tuned for more designer spotlights as Kelly sits down with the creative minds shaping the future of interiors!
