Luca Massimiliano Meinardi: Lighting Up the Future of Architecture

Light has always been humanity’s first tool for storytelling, from ancient fire pits to modern architectural masterpieces. Today, at the intersection of technology and artistry, one company is writing the next chapter in this timeless narrative.  

Under the leadership of Luca Meinardi, Griven S.r.l. has emerged as a global pioneer in architectural lighting, transforming how we experience everything from historical monuments to modern architectural marvels. Armed with insights gained from the world’s most competitive markets in London and New York, Meinardi has steered this Italian family business through a remarkable evolution, achieving record growth even during global uncertainties.  

His vision extends beyond mere illumination—it’s about using light to create experiences that resonate across cultures and continents, turning architectural lighting from a technical necessity into an art form that speaks a universal language. 

Inspired by his vision, we got into conversation with Luca Meinardi to learn more about his journey and how he is leading GRIVEN to new heights. 

Let’s dive into the interview-

Luca Meinardi, you’ve been instrumental in transforming Griven from a family-run company into a modern, agile, and profitable business. What inspired you to take on this challenge, and what key leadership strategies did you implement to achieve this transformation? 

I was inspired by the legacy and craftsmanship at the heart of Griven—a family-founded company deeply rooted in quality and innovation. However, I also recognized the opportunity to elevate this legacy by aligning it with contemporary business practices and global market demands. The first step was fostering a culture that embraced change. I worked to cultivate a mindset of continuous improvement and innovation across the organization. This involved open communication, breaking down silos, and empowering employees to contribute ideas and take ownership of their work. 

Having lived and worked in London and New York, how has your global experience shaped your leadership style and business strategies? 

Operating in two of the world’s most competitive markets has refined my ability to identify global opportunities and navigate complex challenges. In London, I observed the importance of building strong stakeholder relationships and maintaining a long-term vision. From New York, I learned the art of seizing immediate opportunities without compromising strategic goals. This balance between foresight and agility defines Griven’s approach to business—whether entering new markets, embracing cutting-edge technology, or prioritizing sustainability in our product development. Moreover, both cities highlighted the critical importance of specifier-centricity. At Griven, this translates to a commitment to understanding the unique needs of our diverse client base and delivering tailored solutions that exceed expectations. 

The lighting industry faced significant challenges during the pandemic. How did you steer Griven through these uncertain times to achieve record revenues and EBITDA in 2020? 

The pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, ranging from supply chain disruptions to shifts in customer priorities. However, it also created opportunities to innovate and strengthen our business. Our top priority was ensuring the health and safety of our employees. By implementing rigorous health protocols and enabling remote work wherever possible, we fostered a sense of security and trust. These measures not only safeguarded our workforce but also maintained morale and productivity during a challenging time. The successes we achieved in 2020 stemmed not only from our project preparations in 2019 but also from our ability to uphold commercial commitments despite the difficulties of the period. 

You’ve successfully developed markets in North America, Middle East and beyond. What critical factors do you consider when expanding into new regions? 

I believe that successfully expanding into new markets requires a strategic and multi-faceted approach. Establishing strong relationships with local distributors, architects, specifiers, and designers is essential for building trust and gaining a deeper understanding of the market. A physical presence or local partnerships often accelerates our ability to effectively serve these markets. We have been working diligently to strengthen our presence in the UK, India, the Middle East, and North America, and we are currently focusing on other strategic regions to better address the unique needs of each market.  

From export manager to CEO, your career trajectory is impressive. What key lessons from your early career still influence your leadership today? 

From my early days as an export manager, I learned to listen deeply, adapt quickly, and value genuine relationships. Navigating diverse markets taught me resilience and the beauty of thinking globally while respecting local needs. These lessons aren’t just career milestones—they’re the heartbeat of how I lead today: with curiosity, trust, and a solid commitment to quality, growth, and innovation. 

What’s next for you and Griven? Are there any upcoming projects or innovations you’re particularly excited about? 

Well, I can’t reveal the specifics just yet, but I can confidently say that there are some truly groundbreaking projects and innovations on the horizon that will further solidify our position as a top-tier architectural lighting company. Stay tuned—there’s much to look forward to, and we’re excited to share more with you when the time is right. For now, I can assure you that the best is yet to come. 

What advice would you give to young professionals aspiring to lead in the lighting or design industry? 

My advice is simple: don’t focus too much on following advice—feel instead. Feel the moment, feel the trends, feel the people around you, and let your instincts guide you. This industry thrives on creativity and authenticity, and the best ideas often come from trusting your intuition and acting with sentiment and passion. 

When you look back on your career, what legacy do you hope to leave behind in the lighting industry? 

One of innovation, inspiration, and impact. I aspire to have contributed to elevating architectural lighting to an art form—where every project we undertake not only illuminates spaces but also transforms them, evoking emotion and enhancing their identity. 

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