Our Philosophy
LIGHTING design results through an intentional creative process.
Our mission is to bring your ideas to life. Using narration, tactile lighting design strategies, and curated lighting controls, we craft memorable spaces.
We believe that a client-focused approach yields effective results. Our experience working with multi-disciplinary firms, along with our strong relationships with lighting manufacturers, local rep agencies, and distributors, enables us to offer exceptional service. We support our clients both locally and nationwide.
Our Team
Sarah Richter
Principal
Sarah has 13 years of experience in lighting and design. Her resume includes hundreds of successful projects ranging from hospitality gems to tenant fit-outs, alluring retail spaces, intimate residential design, and stimulating workplace designs.
In 2022, Sarah was recognized as a 40 Under 40 by the International Light Collective. Her passion for collaboration and coordination skills makes her an agile member of the team. She holds two degrees in Architecture, a BS in Architecture from The Catholic University of America and a Master of Architecture from Virginia Tech (Washington Alexandria Architecture Center).
Through these institutes of instruction, she brings a unique level of architectural ability to her work. She works closely with multi-disciplinary teams, including Architects, Landscape Architects, Interior Designers, design-build firms, real estate developers, General Contractors, and owners’s Representatives. Understanding each team member's goals and challenges is key to a successful project. A hierarchy of lighting, the importance of “sparkle“, and the harmony of “design disciplines” make up the foundation of Sarah’s work. An understanding of her clients’ goals and project parameters allows her to be detail-oriented and agile while understanding the big picture goals of each project.
Brandon Medlin
Executive Vice President
Brandon has been in the lighting industry for the past 11 years, but his love of lighting and innovative technologies far surpasses that. He brings a unique set of skills to the SRD team: Brandon approaches each project methodically and with care.
He began his career working for a Commercial Electrical Distributor in Baltimore, where he was first introduced to architectural lighting controls and the importance that this technology plays in the overall feel and ambiance of a space. With this interest in lighting controls and systems, he shifted gears into the designer market, working for a local Lighting Rep Agency specializing in Commercial Architectural Lighting Controls. He continued to gain knowledge in Project Management and sharpened his skills in on-site construction problem-solving.
Brandon’s incredible eye for design, complemented by his love of research and problem-solving, makes him an asset to SRD and an even greater asset to our clients. He brings an open mindset to every project and aims to provide workable solutions for all disciplines involved. Brandon’s role is primarily Business Development with a focus on Lighting Controls and Technologies. Brandon is also a member of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) DC Chapter. He enjoys the collaborative process and rolls up his sleeves to make a project successful. He is an excellent resource for our Design, Construction, and Ownership Teams.
TUYEN DYER
Lighting Designer
Tuyen brings over seven years of experience supporting architectural and interior lighting projects from early concept through construction. She works closely with project teams to develop lighting solutions that are both technically sound and aligned with the broader design vision.
Her interest in design began at an early age, growing up in a shared space where she and her sisters were constantly rethinking how to make their room function for everyone. That experience sparked an early appreciation for how thoughtful design can shape the way people live and interact within a space.
Tuyen contributes to all phases of project development, producing lighting layouts, reflected ceiling plans, and control zoning diagrams while supporting calculations and fixture documentation. She also assists in the preparation of design presentations, helping communicate lighting intent through visual references and concept materials during early stages of a project.
With nearly eight years in the lighting design industry, Tuyen brings a thoughtful and collaborative approach to her work, coordinating closely with design teams and manufacturers to ensure design intent is carried through construction. She is particularly passionate about how lighting influences the emotional experience of a space, recognizing how subtle shifts in brightness, contrast, and color can shape perception, comfort, and connection.
AKSHATA DUSA
Lighting Designer
Akshata has a background in architecture and interior design. Her experience spans design development, technical documentation, and visual representation, enabling her to contribute thoughtfully across multiple stages of a project.
Her interest in design began early through drawing and photography and was further shaped during her time at the University of Tennessee, where she was inspired by the collaborative culture of architecture and design studios and the way light interacts with space. This foundation continues to inform her approach to lighting design today.
With experience across both architectural and lighting disciplines, Akshata works closely with project teams to develop lighting layouts, coordinate with consultants, and translate design concepts into clear, buildable solutions. She brings a strong technical understanding while remaining focused on the overall experience of a space.
Akshata has been working in the design industry for approximately five years, including over a year focused specifically in lighting. She is particularly passionate about using design as a tool to foster community, accessibility, and connection, and believes lighting plays a critical role in shaping how people experience and interact with the built environment.
sven
Administrative Assistant
Sven has been part of SRD from its initial conception. As the veteran in the office, our 90-lb door man, lover of all snacks, protector against ANY and ALL package delivery folks. He enjoys naps in the sunshine and creating welcome distractions from deadlines.
Our Values
srd is proud to be a part of the following Memberships + associations
Let’s collaborate
We’re here for you. We are accomplished designers, technical experts, and project managers. So, whatever your lighting design needs, we are ready to collaborate.