Nathan Orsman is a contemporary leader in both interior and exterior lighting design. His ability to sculpt with light allows him to create intrigue in otherwise unprovocative spaces which truly sets him apart from those in his field. His intuitive talents invoke the desire to approach spaces creatively while retaining their functionality.
Australian born, Orsman’s initial area of study was more mathematically focused and his first job was for the Australian Stock Exchange in the IT Department. After moving to the United States, by happy accident he started working at a lighting design firm with a focus on both the business development and creative aspects of the firm. After several years, Orsman started his own firm based out of Southampton, New York.
The past eight years since starting Orsman Design – now with offices in both Southampton and New York’s Flatiron District – has allowed Orsman to work with esoteric clients on stimulating projects that have given him the reputation he has today in the lighting community. His proclivity for lighting and uncanny ability to nurture clients’ expectations set the stage for an enchanting design process and gratifying result.
“I employ dark against light, making sense of structure and the way by which it relates to their surrounds. I approach projects with an artistic eye but always with the understanding of their intent for day-to-day use.”
Orsman has designed for a diverse group of clients, completing large-scale residential and commercial projects throughout the United States and abroad including New York, the Hamptons, Maine, Florida, California, the Caribbean, London, Mexico City and more. He has also been featured in designer show houses in New York, Palm Beach, Miami and Los Angeles. Notable collaborators include Mario Nievera, Steven Gambrel, David Scott, Victoria Hagan, Jamie Drake, David Kleinberg, Bates Masi Architects, Ferguson & Shamamian, Meyer Davis, Sawyer│Berson, Christensen Shipyards and David Collins Studio.
His work has been featured in Interior Design magazine, New York Cottages & Gardens, Show Boats International, the New York Post, Luxe, Modern Luxury, Galerie Magazine, and he has been seen on HGTV. Orsman is also an active member of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America along with the International Dark-Sky Association. Orsman Design has been the recipient of seven IES Awards for both interior and landscape lighting since 2015, in addition to the 2016 Lumen Award for the illumination of the newly restored lobby at The Sherry Netherland Hotel and Residences.
