How it all started

Like most great inventions, Deako was founded out of a simple need. The need for connected lighting to function well, look terrific and not cost a fortune. After researching and living with partial solutions, we realized people really needed an easily upgradable lighting system. People also needed to be able to control the switches with or without their mobile device. The team set about making the idea into a tangible reality—and making it look beautiful while being affordable. So, Deako was born and it has been lighting up eyes and homes ever since.

Meet the founders

Derek Richardson
Derek Richardson
CO-FOUNDER & CEO

Fifteen years of high-tech experience in a variety of roles from Sales, Marketing, Engineering and Executive Management. MBA from the Haas School of Business at UC Berkeley.

Alexander Strunkin
Alexander Strunkin
CO-FOUNDER, HEAD OF PRODUCT & SOFTWARE

Ten years' experience in the engineering, management, and development of great products. Not only has Strunkin held an engineering roles at Microsoft, he has also built and led a number of startups, along with previously holding the Director of Web Development position at Limeade.