The subject matter of the present disclosure relates, in various embodiments, to modular lighting constructs wherein a plurality of structural members, most often parallel to one another, form spaced-apart layers, and wherein clamping force, applied in some embodiments approximately perpendicularly to a face of each structural member through use of one or more tension assembly comprising a cable, rope, wire, rod, or the like, in association with one or more tubular spacer, is used to draw the structural members into alignment and to provide structural integrity of the modular construct.