The HUB Lighting and Innovation by KAFKAS draws inspiration from KAFKAS’ 50-year legacy and highlights the next generation of lighting designers
A celebration of innovation, education, and design
On July 4th, the HUB KAFKAS in Thessaloniki successfully hosted “APOKALYPSIS”, a landmark event marking the conclusion of its national lighting design competition. The initiative targeted students from schools of architecture and design across Greece and aimed to spotlight fresh ideas and emerging talent in experiential lighting.
Launched in April 2025, the competition invited participants to submit lighting concepts responding to a thematic brief celebrating “50 Years of KAFKAS.” Entries were evaluated in May by an esteemed panel of professionals from the fields of architecture, lighting design, and education, including:
Dr. Lambros Doulos, Aris Klonizakis – LIGHTING ARCHITECTURE STUDIO LASt, Theofili Machairidi – Delta Theta, Katerina Skalkou – Allight, Anna Smpokou – ASlight, Anastasia Filippopoulou, and Christina Moudara.
The jury evaluated submissions based on their aesthetic merit, sustainability, innovation, technical rigor, and relevance to the anniversary theme. The panel’s contribution went beyond scoring, many members attended the “Apokalypsis” event in person, sharing invaluable insights and inspiration with the next generation of lighting professionals, demonstrating their passion and dedication to the art and science of light.
In a unique reveal, winners were not notified in advance. Instead, they discovered their winning designs on display, realized and installed in the showcases of the HUB in Ilioupoli, as part of an immersive artistic and educational installation. This experience not only bridged creativity with real-world application but also offered meaningful recognition and a stepping stone into the professional realm.
A total of twelve students were awarded, receiving valuable prizes, while all participants were honored with commemorative gifts for their involvement in the competition.
Our Sponsors & Partners
The competition and its culminating event would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated sponsors, industry leaders in lighting, design, and innovation:
Arkos Light, Intra Lighting, Davide Groppi, and Timberlab.
Through their expertise and exceptional products, they exemplified the power of collaboration and reinforced lighting’s role as a vehicle for culture, education, and progress.
Where Education, Technology & Design Meet
The HUB functions as a living lab for lighting design, a space for research, experimentation, and knowledge exchange. By connecting architecture with industry, aesthetics with performance, and professionals with future creators, the HUB Lighting and Innovation by KAFKAS fosters a culture of lifelong learning and professional excellence.
With locations in Ilioupoli, Chalandri, and Thessaloniki, each HUB responds to local market needs with specialized teams and tailored lighting strategies. The Thessaloniki HUB, in particular, continues to grow as a dynamic hub for design and innovation in Northern Greece.
“50 Years of KAFKAS” – A Half Century of Innovation
2025 marks a significant milestone: KAFKAS celebrates 50 years of continuous growth and contribution in the fields of electrical equipment, lighting, and technology. This anniversary honors the company’s journey and the people—employees, partners, and clients—who have shaped its legacy. The HUB represents a bold extension of this vision: a future-forward platform that empowers the next generation of lighting designers and reinforces KAFKAS’ commitment to education, innovation, and design excellence.




