Education and Science

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Education and Science

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Education and Science

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RIBA Clore Learning Centre
London, England
Owner: Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Zumtobel helps create an inspirational setting for RIBA’s new Clore Learning Centre

Zumtobel Lighting have illuminated the prestigious, Grade II listed headquarters of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) building for the new Clore Learning Centre, which will open in October 2019. The Clore Learning Centre will be an inspirational setting for hands-on, creative activities for a range of audiences, from children and families to life-long learners so the illumination will play an important role in providing the perfect ambience in the spaces.

Situated at 66 Portland Place, London, the Royal Institute of British Architects is a global professional membership body driving excellence in architecture, supporting British architects and introducing new people to the world of architecture. RIBA’s new Clore Learning Centre aims to provide an inspiring destination for the public to engage with architecture as part of a creative learning programme. It includes a dedicated studio, study room, terrace and an interactive display area that will showcase the Centre’s work, with hands-on, creative workshops and courses led by architects, artists and educators.

Zumtobel’s elegant ONDARIA with tunableWhite complements the interior architecture in the main teaching space and helps provide a flexible learning centre for the users. The timeless design of the ONDARIA luminaire perfectly adapts to a variety of different room concepts, its clear geometry enhances the architecture without detracting from the interior styling. ONDARIA’s circular shape means that it can be positioned at random and in any direction in a room, without compromising the constant quality of light. The addition of Zumtobel’s tunableWhite technology means that colour output can be tuned to virtually any perceivable colour, including any shade of white light. With the right light, people can immerse themselves fully in their respective tasks including activities at work and for studying, which can in turn help improve sleep patterns come the end of the day

Zumtobel’s LITECOM lighting management system optimises the lighting solution of the entire Centre with regard to visual comfort and energy efficiency. LITECOM can be controlled via conventional switches, Zumtobel control units, smartphones, tablets or other computers. The system has the ability to dim theluminaires, save lighting scenes and control screens, windows and blinds. Other functions, such as daylight-based lighting management, are covered by optional apps, allowing for future changes and additions. If glare protection is also integrated into the LITECOM system via scene call or manual, independent adjustment of the blinds and slat positioning, visual comfort will be enhanced, as there will be no glare even when the sun is low. Zumtobel’s SUPERSYSTEM, fills the space with uniform styling, and is the feature lighting for the perimeter walls and to highlight the exhibits. The thin rail profile, combined with the highly diversified construction kit for easy to install lighting inserts, covers all demanding lighting tasks without sacrificing light quality. The spotlights mounted on the SUPERSYSTEM provide flexible illumination that can be moved and aimed at specific exhibits easily, without the need for an electrician.

Zumtobel’s DIAMO compact downlight has provided the perfect solution for the corridors and circulation spaces, providing a brilliant white, sparkling light. Thanks to concealed fixtures, hand-made reflectors and high-quality LED technology, DIAMO is ideal for accent lighting, boasts excellent light quality and is a real highlight when it comes to wanting maximum design freedom in the staging of architectural features. Flextape in the cabinets produces a complimentary, warm white light. Comfort for the user has been given great consideration in the toilet facilities where linear suspended SLOTLIGHT Infinity has been installed to guarantee a bright and welcoming space.

Karin Zumtobel, Head of Culture and Arts at Zumtobel Group commented “We are very excited to have supported RIBA’s Clore Learning Centre and helped them create a lighting solution within this inspirational space. Clore will provide continuous education for its members as well as supporting community work for children to experience the world of architecture in a playful way. Lighting is so important to how we feel in a space and we are delighted Zumtobel can be part of this educational journey”.

Andrew Nelson, Head of Learning at RIBA commented “The Clore Learning Centre is truly transformative for our public outreach and strengthens the RIBA’s position as a leading destination for architectural learning. As well as supporting capacity growth, our new Studio enables us to offer a much broader and immersive range of creative activities.”

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Herstedlund School
Albertslund, Denmark
Owner: Herstedlund School (DNK)
Project partner: University of Aalborg (DNK)
Concentration at the push of a button – Zumtobel supports learning with Active Light in the classroom

Lights, on – curiosity, go! Active Light accompanies teachers and students throughout the day at Herstedlund School in Denmark. It promotes concentration. Increases efficiency. And boosts relaxation. Zumtobel creates dynamic lighting moods in the classrooms that perfectly complement the particular teaching situation: invigorating, stimulating or relaxing. The Austrian lighting solutions supplier worked with the University of Aalborg and other selected partners to implement this advanced lighting concept at the school in the town of Albertslund.

The bell rings. Students at Herstedlund Primary School take their seats. There is a general rustling of paper. The exercise books are out and ready. The text books too. Fourth-year students wait for the beginning of the first lesson. Excitedly? Perhaps. Sleepily? Maybe just a bit. Then suddenly the teacher flicks the light switch and vibrant Active Light from Zumtobel immediately fills the entire space. And triggers attention, curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. Light floods the classroom. Light like daylight. Light that creates a pleasant learning atmosphere. Unobtrusive and balanced. Visual performance, visual comfort and the needs of pupils and teachers have all been taken into account. Now the learning can really begin.

After half an hour, the smart board is switched on. The teacher adjusts the light settings to help students concentrating on the smartboard. At the same time, good visibility of exercise books and materials at the student workspaces remains unaffected. The fourth-year classroom is one of three teaching spaces at the Herstedlund School that now uses Active Light for educational support, offering teachers a choice of four pre-programmed lighting moods. Dimmable round ONDARIA 2 luminaires from Zumtobel create precisely the desired learning environment: timeless, natural, comfortable.

The lunch break is followed by the inevitable afternoon lull. Yet now teachers can use light to actively counteract student fatigue and increase attention. Stimulating cool-white light really brings the classroom to life, as an energetic lighting mood in line with the concept of Human Centric Lighting raises spirits and refreshes weary students.

A group exercise rounds off the school day for the fourth-year students. Slightly subdued warm-white light provides a relaxing ambience and gains top marks for supporting social interaction. Breaks and relaxation phases are also at their most effective when this cosy and informal lighting scenario is selected.
Researchers at the University of Aalborg developed the specific design criteria for the lighting moods in the classroom – and then Zumtobel turned these into a reality. Project partners also used the lighting infrastructure and  LITECOM lighting management system to collect data on the use of light in the classrooms over a three-month period. The findings have now been brought together in a recently published study, which certainly makes for interesting reading. In a nutshell: Active Light provides lighting scenarios that really support learning at the Herstedlund School. This approach also structures lessons and provides versatility and variety for staff and students throughout the day.

Teachers change the lighting mood three times a day on average. Seasonal daylight differences and the spatial arrangement of the classrooms, which face in different directions, all have an influence on the lighting conditions. “The internet-enabled and app-based lighting management system means that the four pre-programmed lighting scenarios can be easily controlled by the teachers,” explains Lybeck Casper, Sales Director of Zumtobel Group Denmark. “The scenario they choose for different situations is personal and teacher-specific.” The colour settings and light intensity of all the luminaires in the classroom are individually adjustable, while teachers can also define their own settings. This all supports the shared vision of the project partners: to make Herstedlund a true role model for schools of the future.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
University of Arts Linz
Linz, Austria
Owner: Bundes Immobilien Gesellschaft (AT)
Architect: Architekt Krischanitz (AT)
Artist: Karin Sander (DE)
Art reaching up to the heavens

The Berlin-based artist Karin Sander has created an extraordinary exhibition space for students at the University of Art in Linz: a “transcendental elevator” that is simultaneously an artistic object, an appliance and an icon. With the help of Zumtobel, the elevator not only shines in varying colours way beyond the rooftops of the university, but can also be transformed into a real work of art by students.

Look up to the roof of the University of Art in the Upper Austrian city of Linz and you may at first be a little confused. Why exactly is a glass goods lift – a contraption that can be seen from far and wide – standing high above the roof of the university? It glows in a series of bold changing tones, sometimes brighter, sometimes darker. In fact, it almost seems to be sending signals to the sky. But why?
This creative construction project, which is presently catching everyone's eye in Linz, is the work of the artist Karin Sander. She has designed a hybrid known as the “transcendental elevator”. On the one hand, the purely functional goods lift is a shining symbol of the university – a symbol that can certainly be easily seen. For miles around. Yet at the same time, as well as housing a spectacular exhibition space, students can also turn the actual structure into a piece of modern art.

But first, let us start at the beginning. The prominent Viennese architects Architekt Krischanitz are currently refurbishing the various different sections of the University of Art and Design Linz. The recent completion of the eastern bridgehead building (Brückenkopfgebäude) on the Nibelungen Bridge marks the end of the first construction phase. Although the listed façades of the historic building have remained very much untouched, the architects have found a way of adding impressive lecture theatres under a glass roof structure. And they have used a new lighting design concept to emphasise the imposing stairwells. Artist Karin Sander, representatives from Architekt Krischanitz and the client BIG (as part of their  BIG ART construction & art programme) all worked closely with Zumtobel to realise the transcendental elevator project.

The Zumtobel team set about developing a vibrant lighting installation – in every sense. In stark contrast to the small amount of space available, this solution makes a big impression by immersing the elevator in all the colours of the spectrum. The demands were high. Very high, in fact. As an artistic object, this project required a lighting system that could offer students the greatest possible creative freedom. Yet as a practical goods lift, the specified components also had to be fit for purpose. A frameless illuminated ceiling from Zumtobel managed to hit both of these targets. The intensity and the colour of the light can be easily modified using a controls solution that contrasts maximum flexibility with minimal complexity: LITECOM from Zumtobel. As a result, all the necessary parameters can be perfected and programmed according to the specific needs of the students or staff. Just how they want it.

Design from the past with the technology of today: The ALVA spherical luminaire from Hermann Czech and Adolf Krischanitz
The transcendental elevator is not the only special feature associated with this construction project. Visit the University of Art and you will discover a true design gem: the ALVA spherical luminaire. Based on an idea from Hermann Czech that originally dates back to the 1960s, this fitting was first designed together with Adolf Krischanitz during the 1990s. Now Zumtobel and the Architekt Krischanitz studio have refreshed this concept for „the editions" – a special collection in more ways than one. ALVA gives the university illustrious sparkle. The light spheres float like heavenly bodies in the hallways, accentuating the impressive staircase and the elegant cafeteria. “A key reason for the beauty of the luminaire is the fact that the technology is hidden. Zumtobel immediately developed two versions that fulfilled our requirements,” explained Stefan Just, Project Manager at Architekt Krischanitz.

The more complex version features a glass sphere that is open at the bottom and the top. The glare-free light is provided in three ways: from an LED downlight and an LED uplight, as well as via spherical illumination of the whole fitting – without any shading caused by the technology. The simpler version sacrifices the direct beam of the downlight for a completely closed glass housing that indirectly delivers diffuse spherical light.

Flexible systems for study and work spaces
Zumtobel was able to use its extensive lighting expertise for more than just the special solutions and customised developments. After all, this kind of establishment also needs light that promotes learning and supports quality of vision throughout the university. That is why Architekt Krischanitz opted for the highly versatile TECTON continuous-row system. A crucial aspect is the interplay between the dimmable TECTON MPO luminaires and the LED spotlights, which ensure excellent glare control to make them the ideal choice for lecture theatres and seminar rooms. The company managing the publicly owned real estate (the Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft or BIG) used the renovation of the site to switch completely to efficient LED technology and thereby achieve their goal of sustainable operation.

Zumtobel and modern art
Zumtobel has been associated with contemporary art projects for decades now. And not just as a supporter, but also as an active partner for the implementation of highly complex installations – just like the joint “Skyspace” project by the Austrian lighting specialist and James Turrell in Lech am Arlberg. This underground light room in the middle of the Alpine landscape of Vorarlberg, the home county of Zumtobel, opened in September 2018.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
FHNW Campus
Muttenz, Switzerland
Owner: Hochbauamt Basel-Landschaft, Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz, Muttenz (CH)
Architect: pool Architekten, Zürich (CH)
Lighting design: Reflexion AG, Zürich (CH)
Electrical consultants: Pro Engineering AG, Basel (CH)
With an edge length of around 65 metres, the cube of the new Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz can easily be seen from afar. It is a simple and at the same time monumental building for education and research, designed by the Swiss architects pool Architekten. Zumtobel has developed a new luminaire for this unusual building, together with the lighting designers from Reflexion: the FREELINE, over 13 kilometres of which were interwoven with the architecture in Muttenz.

“The architecture of the new building is extremely compelling and has a strong graphic quality,” says Thomas Mika, managing director of Reflexion, who is responsible for the lighting concept of the university building. “So we decided to integrate all the luminaires into the structural elements as much as we could.” Diverse daylight situations create different atmospheres and room impressions. The ribbed concrete ceilings define the office, seminar and laboratory rooms as well as the corridors of the new university building from the third to the twelfth floor. Reflexion decided to insert a linear luminaire between each of the ribs so that the rooms benefit from uniform light and good luminance distribution. However, the lighting designers didn’t want a simple, two-dimensional continuous row, instead they aimed for a substantial, three-dimensional light that would illuminate the architecture and at the same time serve as lighting for the workplaces.

Two models of the FREELINE have been created along these lines. While one model is suitable for office and classroom applications thanks to the MPO’s precise light control, the other is equipped with lenticular optics. This entails light deflection for asymmetrical light distribution: ideal for emphasising architecture, e.g. as wall washer or panel lighting, as in the seminar rooms at the FHNW Campus Muttenz.

It wasn’t just the elegant, graphic design and the flexible use of the luminaire that impressed the building owners, but also the simple installation – the FREELINE is simply inserted on a low-voltage track. This means that specially trained personnel are not required during installation. An important factor after all, as the university wanted to move into the premises for the 2018/19 winter semester. Fast, uncomplicated installation was therefore just as essential as the large quantities that Zumtobel was able to supply in the shortest possible development and production time.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
  • FREELINE
Volksschule Herrenried (primary school)
Hohenems, Austria
Owner: Stadt Hohenems Immobilienverwaltungs-GmbH & Co.KG, Hohenems (AT)
Architect: Dorner\Matt Architekten, Bregenz (AT)
Lighting design: Licht Innovativ GmbH, Innsbruck (AT)
Electrical consultants: IHM Elektrotechnik, Hörbranz (AT)
Electrical installations: Elmar Graf GmbH, Dornbirn (AT)
“The high spatial nature of the three-storey building remains unaffected and has been extended by a one-storey building with a garden courtyard. The interior character and external legibility are retained, and enhanced by a flowing circular corridor through new rooms at ground level.” Architects Dorner/Matt, Bregenz


The renovated classrooms in the school in Hohenems are in no way inferior to the quality of the new building, and certainly not when it comes to light. Using the ceiling grid of the existing lighting system, it was possible to replace all the existing louvre luminaires with fluorescent lamp technology in the refurbished rooms. The MIREL evolution recessed luminaire was used here as an LED lens variant. The overall package of the luminaire family and the large number of variants in a uniform design are ideally suited to the requirements of the school environment, in both renovations and in new buildings. The stricter minimum requirements for classrooms that are also used in the evening were exceeded. The average maintained illuminance is now over 500 lx. In this building, the MIREL evolution family proves to be an integral and imperceptible part of the architecture. Supplementary panel lighting also ensures perfect contrasts on the vertical surfaces.

In the hallway, the old seamlessly transitions to the new. The MIREL evolution with opal optic creates an openness similar to a daylight opening – perfect for zones that feel closed off because they do not look out into the natural environment. This friendly room feel is reinforced by the square 2LIGHT Mini downlights, which are positioned close to the wall and create a brilliant appearance.

It was also possible to replace all the old louvre luminaires in the sports hall lighting using a project lighting solution. The new luminaires supplement the daylight and meet all requirements for glare, lighting level, uniformity and ball impact resistance. The extended periods of use by clubs in the evenings mean short amortisation periods for the new lighting solution.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Schule am See
Hard, Austria
Owner: Marktgemeinde Hard, Hard (AT)
Architect: Baumschlager Hutter Partners, Dornbirn (AT)
Lighting design: Bartenbach GmbH, Aldrans (AT)
Electrical consultants: Ingenieurbüro Brugger GmbH, Thüringen (AT)
Electrical installations: Elmar Graf GmbH, Dornbirn (AT)
The new primary and secondary school in Vorarlberg’s market town of Hard is characterised by an innovative educational concept in conjunction with a cluster structure and a pioneering lighting solution. A successful composition of teachers’ and pupils’ needs, those of the architects Baumschlager Hutter Partners, the lighting design office Bartenbach GmbH and Zumtobel. In the course of the day, the colour and intensity of the special LED luminaire’s light adapt to people’s natural biorhythms. The lighting scenes in the room support a variety of activities, the use of work equipment and the flexible use of space. Glare-free light from the smartboard to seating circle, from class group to individual work. By complementing the architecture, Limbic® Lighting places the focus on the emotions of teachers and learners. The room becomes the third teacher. Enjoy gaining experience. Supported by the room. For successful learning.

The extremely streamlined, white line luminaires in a uniform louvre appear as precisely integrated, structuring strips in the acoustic or exposed concrete ceilings of the multi-year clusters. Thanks to microfacetted downlight technology and recessed LED light points, they create glare-free light without intruding. Daylight linking colour temperatures between 2700 and 5700 Kelvin are adapted to the biorhythms of teachers and pupils. Above all, however, the required room atmosphere is supported by changes in the intensity and colour of the light. Attention and concentration. Learning in private or in public. Reddish light for mindfulness breaks, for calming or even when reading aloud. Bluish for a feeling of openness and activity in the room.
During the day, the building gets plenty of daylight thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass façade in the corridors. At dusk and in the dark, the LED line lights mounted at the top of the window elements create an effect that is based on the natural incidence of light.

The linear, highly efficient TECTON LED continuous-row luminaire has proven to be a flexible system for the gymnasium with additional areas. The ceiling construction with its underlying lamella structure makes the space ball-proof.

Safety and escape-sign luminaires in conjunction with the ONLITE central eBox provide the minimum amount of light required in emergencies.

Zumtobel. The light.

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Lighting solution
Mannheim Business School
Mannheim, Germany
Owner: Mannheim Business School, Mannheim (DE)
Architect: schneider+schumacher Architekten, Frankfurt (DE)
Photos: KIrsten Bucher
International students, inspiring lecturers and intensive cooperation with global companies have all helped establish the Mannheim Business School (MBS) as the best business school in Germany. Now an individualised lighting solution from Zumtobel is helping to create an optimum learning environment in the new MBS study and conference centre, featuring concentration-enhancing light that relieves the eyes during long periods of work. As part of the University of Mannheim, the new building was planned by the renowned Frankfurt architects schneider+schumacher.

Opened in October last year, the study and conference centre in the western courtyard of the Mannheim Palace has quickly become the new architectural centrepiece of the Mannheim Business School. A disused boiler room and the adjoining coal cellar have been completely rebuilt to create the new lecture theatre complex. Arranged behind an expansive glass façade that looks out onto the gardens behind the west wing of the palace, the study and conference centre incorporates two semi-circular lecture theatres, a flexible conference area, ten seminar rooms and a spacious barrier-free foyer.

The lighting solution had to satisfy a series of special requirements. The new installation needed to provide uniform illumination of the arched and shell-shaped ceiling in the lecture theatres, while also meeting all the relevant standards and delivering glare-free light throughout the centre – ready for a future in which paper is completely replaced by touchscreens. Zumtobel solved these varied challenges with the help of a new calculation method, using the HiLite programme to precisely calculate the reflections of the vaulted ceiling. The multifunctional SUPERSYSTEM II lighting tool from Zumtobel proved to be the ideal solution, incorporating an oval-outline film with a very narrow distribution to gently illuminate the concave-shaped ceiling. Each LED spotlight from the SUPERSYSTEM II maxi range was then carefully positioned and directed in line with a detailed set of calculations.

Zumtobel chose a solution for the foyer that simultaneously reflects the historical background of the building and creates a transition into the old palace. The vaults in the former kitchen now benefit from the soft and uniform light of the CRAFT S high-bay LED luminaire. This small industrial fitting with big performance blends high resistance, maintenance-free operation and low energy requirements over a long service life. The compact high-bays are installed as direct uplights to illuminate the vaulted ceiling in a balanced way with minimal shadowing, generating a brilliant lighting atmosphere in the entrance area.

A special version of the frameless Zumtobel PANOS evolution LED recessed downlight with a concrete inlay has been developed for the ceilings in the corridors. Great care was taken to achieve a clean transition between the luminaire and the acoustically effective ceiling by integrating the plaster ring into the concrete housing. The PANOS downlight series is characterised by high luminaire efficiency and powerful lumen packages – for the very best lighting quality.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Faculty of Civil Engineering
Osijek, Croatia
Architect: Dinko Peračić (HR)
The new Faculty of Civil Engineering on the Josip Juraj Strossmayer University campus in Osijek, Croatia, is on the way to becoming a centre of engineering excellence. Architect Dinko Peračić called on the knowledge and expertise of Zumtobel to help realise the lighting concept for the building that encompasses around 10,000 square metres of usable space – a construction that symbolises the rich potential of the built environment. The artificial light primarily had the task to extend the fundamental spatial quality into the evening and night. The high room heights demanded an intelligent solution to fuse adequate light with excellent glare control, while there was also a clear preference for luminaires with a subtle design – in other words, luminaires that use their lit effect to focus attention on the way the space is presented.

In the entrance area it was necessary to generate a welcoming atmosphere and to simplify orientation for people entering the expansive building. The slim TUBILUX tube luminaire proved the ideal option. The height of the rooms played a decisive role in the specification of the lighting for the 94 classrooms and offices. The luminaires, mounted on ceilings with heights of between 4 and 8 metres, had to deliver enough light for the various different visual tasks undertaken by both students and staff. In addition, they needed to simultaneously demonstrate outstanding glare control and contribute to a pleasant atmosphere that is intended to promote learning and concentration. An MPO+ micro-pyramidal optic and perforated side reflector helped the ECOOS fitting catch the eye of the client. The pendant luminaire blends an attractive design with excellent lighting performance.

The addition of LUXMATE DIMLITE further improves the overall energy performance. The basic version of this lighting management system integrates available light and enables daylight-dependent control in each of the 94 classrooms and offices. LITECOM is combined with the modular SEQUENCE adjustable office luminaire in certain conference rooms to offer lighting scenarios tailored to suit particular tasks and situations. The entire building is equipped with the ONLITE RESCLITE safety luminaire. Excellent efficiency and an optimal light distribution mean that relatively few products were required to meet the relevant standards for safety lighting.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Corpus Christi High School
Cardiff
Zumtobel has created a solution for Corpus Christi High School in Cardiff that has not only overcome the constraints associated with the project but also resulted in a stylish installation, with maximum performance, low maintenance and high energy savings. Using Zumtobel’s innovative skills, the original 1990’s lighting scheme has been transformed into an eye catching, contemporary installation that works in unison with the existing recessed lighting and trunking system.

Corpus Christi High School is a voluntary aided school that was set up in 1987 and a new building added in 1996, with fundraising for providing the impetuses part of a family of Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Cardiff. The school provides education to pupils aged 11-16 years and is part of Cardiff County Council Education Authority, which means that the school not only provides the best possible vocational and academic education but aims to nurture students in their faith and follow the Gospel message of Jesus Christ, enabling the development of the whole child. The school recognises that education is not confined to success in external examinations only but is also about spiritual, moral, personal, social, physical and cultural dev

Zumtobel’s Concept Design team created a sleek and modern, energy efficient LED solution that was then engineered by the company’s Custom Product Team in Spennymoor, designed to replace the original 1990’s old style fluorescent, coffer style 36W T8 luminaires, creating an aesthetically pleasing contemporary design that works with the existing recessed lighting and trunking system.

The existing luminaires had a complicated two-part fixing comprising a gear tray with control gear and lamps and a separate louvre system secured with shoot bolts. To overcome this, Zumtobel designed a flush fitting luminaire with a simple universal fixing method, therefore making this system almost suitable for fixing into to any recessed void without the requirement for special springs, screws or retrofit frames. Fixing of the luminaire is made by attaching two suspension wires to a load bearing surface in the recessed void. The wires are then attached to the luminaire, which allows electrical wiring to be connected while the luminaire is hanging in a safe position. This also provides an added safety feature allowing the installer to have both hands free to make the relevant connections. Once the electrical connections are made, the luminaire can be raised into the ceiling, any excess wire can be trimmed, allowing enough wire free for future maintenance.

740 luminaires have been installed at the school by John Bulpin Electrical Ltd, Swansea, with an installation time of 90 seconds per luminaire and the total load has been reduced from 59kW to 18.2kW, providing potential energy savings of 82kWh per annum (based on 2000 hours per year) which is equal to £11,000 per annum. Optics have been specifically designed to provide good vertical illumination in the corridors and classrooms, ensuring that UGR19 is maintained.

Broderick Lingham, Estate Manager at Corpus Christi commented “Since the initial consultation with Thorn regarding the complete replacement of all our tube lighting in the school, I found they have shown from the onset a throughout and professional approach to the project. We have a casement lighting system throughout the school which would have been very expensive to replace, but Thorn developed a bespoke LED unit that fitted within the old tube casements. This included a release and locking cable system, for quick installation and ease of maintenance if required. To date, we have already shown savings from the first stage of installation and we are currently two thirds through the project which is being phased during term times to minimise disruption to our pupils. The new lighting has created a very much improved ambience throughout classrooms which aids the children in their learning environment. I am looking forward to the completion of the project and the saving we will undoubtable be making into the future”.

Zumtobel has built an enviable reputation for creating specific solutions for individual applications, using the latest technology to design application-specific products, whilst reducing manufacturing costs and energy consumption. This enables the company to provide a cost effective solution with maximum energy savings to offset capital costs and financial solutions such as NOW.

The Corpus Christi project was financed using NOW, Zumtobel Group’s finance package that offers to spread the cost of the products and installation over a pre-defined period, with regular repayments that are calculated in relation to the predicted energy savings. Typically, the annual savings will exceed the repayments, so the organisation is saving money from day one.

 

 

 

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Bay Campus at Swansea University
Swansea UK
Owner: Swansea University
Lighting design: Kel Ross of Arup
Lighting technology: Kel Ross of Arup
Electrical installations: CMB Electrical
Photos: Swansea University In-house Photographer
 The Zumtobel Group steal the limelight at Swansea University's new £450m Bay Campus

Elegant and efficient the first group project with Thorn, Zumtobel and Tridonic brands

The Swansea University project, which was 10 years in the planning, has taken just over two years to complete. It was officially opened in September 2015 and is one of the few universities in the world within its own beach.

The Zumtobel Group brands, have worked together to help Arups provide the ideal lighting solution for The Energy Safety Research Institute (ESRI) Building. The ESRI concentrates the College of Engineering’s strength in the energy sector and focuses on the safety issues surrounding the development and expansion of existing energy processes.

Professor Richard B Davies, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, said: “We have effectively doubled in size overnight and Swansea has become a dual campus University. There is already an academic vitality but there is also an excitement about the future, about how the modern, well-equipped facilities will provide our students with life- and career-enhancing opportunities.”

The Zumtobel Group were invited to tender for the job at Arup Cardiff’s invitation, having worked with the Zumtobel brand on numerous projects in the past. Dave Dupres, Thorn Sales Manager Spec Team for South Wales & West England, describes, “This is the first project we have worked on together, our main aim was to meet the clients spec and provide a high quality solution. Of all the sites on this campus this one received the most funding as it backed by a separate investment. This building has the highest spec luminaire list, however as with all facilities, there are always commercial constraints so we were called in to look at the spec and work out where Thorn luminaires could work with Zumtobel’s and add efficiencies in areas with long burning hours, reducing costs and also without compromising on the quality. It was great to be able to fulfil the spec, work together and provide a complete solution without the need for a third party supplier coming in.”

A vast selection of products from the Thorn and Zumtobel portfolio were selected to light the entire building with a high proportion of them containing Tridonic ballasts, representing three of the Zumtobel Group brands. Furthermore Thorn was also awarded the contract to fit out the student accommodation which houses 5,000 students, as well as the Innovation Building on the same site.

Key Facts:

• 3,800 sqm building

• A bund wall had to be built on site as during construction it flooded twice due to high tidal waves

• BREEAM Outstanding rating

• UK’s first dedicated centre for research into energy safety

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Lighting solution
Museum of Natural History at Oxford University
Oxford, England
Architect: Oxford University
Lighting technology: Oxford University Estates
Electrical consultants: CBG Consultants Limited
Photos: Redshift Photography
Zumtobel has delivered a new architectural lighting scheme for Oxford University’s Museum of Natural History. As a Grade I listed building, the design and installation process was challenging; however the performance of the LED products, the expertise of Zumtobel and a collaborative approach from the project team has resulted in a spectacular lighting solution that meets the complex requirements of the space.

Oxford University’s Museum of Natural History was originally built in 1860. In December 2011, the museum began an extensive project to repair its roof structure. At the same time, a routine lighting survey conducted by the University’s Deputy Electrical Engineer demonstrated huge potential to upgrade and enhance the minimal lighting that was then in situ.

As such, a project team was assembled, which included the museum’s electrical engineer, Zumtobel, Purcell Architects and Monard Electrical.

John Cronin, Chief Lighting Engineer - Specification at Zumtobel comments: “The first challenge was that only limited drawings of the building existed so we had to manually measure and digitally model the building. Then once a design principle was agreed we created a series of mock-ups that allowed us to select appropriate luminaires, positions and beam angles, ensuring we avoided unnecessary issues when it came to final installation on site.”

Furthermore, a significant challenge for the team was developing an appropriate fixing system that would not damage the Grade I building. Monard Electrical played a fundamental role in the design and selection of innovative fixings, which allowed the luminaires and cabling to be attached to the structure by magnetic brackets.

“The use of magnets followed exhaustive testing for compatibility with the Zumtobel supplied luminaires,” recalls Richard Francis, Partner at Monard Electrical. “However the end result is exceptionally discreet cabling where black cabling appears against a black background, and grey against a grey – with no fixings directly installed on the museum’s structure.”

The resulting architectural lighting solution comprises a combination of Zumtobel, Bega and Limburg luminaires, which significantly improve the overall lighting in the museum as well as illuminate the architectural features of the building, enhancing aesthetics and providing an energy efficient solution.

All luminaires are dimmable and networked to a Zumtobel lighting control system, with an integrated central battery for emergency, designed in combination with Oxford based M&E Consultancy CBG Consultants Limited. Day to day operation is fully automated with daylight control by a roof mounted Skyscanner device that monitors the available amount and direction of daylight. For events, a choice of carefully balanced lighting scenes, including RGB colour change, are accessed wirelessly by museum staff, via an iPad.

Robert Gregg, Deputy Electrical Engineer at Oxford University’s Estates Services concluded: “For the first time the museum is benefitting from a well designed lighting scheme that has attracted critical acclaim from external conservation bodies. The results are a testament to the commitment, passion and pride in the project displayed by the whole team.”

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Toni-Areal
Zurich, Switzerland
Owner: Allreal Generalunternehmung AG, Zurich (CH)
Architect: EM2N ARCHITEKTEN AG, Zurich (CH)
Lighting design: Vogt und Partner, Winterthur (CH)
Electrical consultants: Bürgin und Keller, Adliswil (CH)
Electrical installations: Alpiq InTec Ost AG, Zurich (CH)
Photos: Markus Frietsch
It was one of Zurich's largest building projects, and one of the most exciting transformations as well. The Toni-Areal site on Pfingstweidstrasse in Zurich-West, formerly one of Europe's largest dairy processing plants, was handed over to its new users in autumn 2014. Illumination of the state-of-the-art university campus is provided by 5500 TECTON luminaires by Zumtobel.

Industrial charm with new appeal
In 2005, a new way of using the property from the seventies had to be found. It was generally agreed that not just another office complex would be built on this site, right in the heart of Zurich-West, a district that had meanwhile blossomed out into a cultural hotspot boasting the industrial charm of days gone by. Hence, based on a feasibility study, it was determined that the 24,435 m² Toni-Areal was to be transformed into the new central location of the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW). In the subsequently launched architectural competition, the project design submitted by the EM2N architects' studio came out first, and the building application filed in autumn 2007 laid the foundation for the ambitious renovation and new building project involving an investment volume of CHF 350 million.

Right on time for the start of the autumn term in September 2014, approx. 5000 students, lecturers and staff members could move to the new premises. In addition, not only 100 new flats including an accessible roof garden and a car park accommodating 240 cars, but also rooms for exhibitions, events and spaces for commercial use were created. A contemporary infrastructure was developed that not only allows interaction of various disciplines at one location, but also ensures the university's high educational and service quality as well as its international competitiveness.

The design of the campus building picks up the former industrial building's architecture, creating a heterogeneous space where different interests are reconciled, also in terms of lighting. The lighting concept toys with this heterogeneity. Its aim is not to produce uniform brightness, but to have the luminaires arranged so as to divide the space into zones and create a dialogue between light and dark. Also, the lighting solution is as capable of transformation as is the Toni-Areal site itself. On the one hand, ideal lighting conditions for learning and communication are produced; on the other hand, the creative ambience is enhanced and students are provided with the right light for their exhibition areas.

The key role in implementing this lighting solution is played by a modular luminaire system that meets the high demands in terms of flexibility and customisability: TECTON, which is able to fulfil complex functions and a variety of lighting tasks thanks to its versatility, compatibility and expandability within one system. The continuous-row lighting system is based on trunking incorporating an 11-pole current conducting section. All functions such as power supply, lighting control and connection to the emergency lighting system are integrated into this multi-functional trunking unit. In order to illuminate 1400 lecture rooms, seminar and training rooms, more than 33 kilometres of TECTON trunking were installed.

At peak times, more than 600 electricians were working on the construction site, installing more than 5500 TECTON continuous-row luminaires, among others. As required, a variety of optics and louvres were used, which can also easily be replaced or added if the requirements placed on the lighting solution should change.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
University of Economics and Business
Vienna, Austria
Owner: Projektgesellschaft Wirtschaftsuniversität Wien GmbH, Vienna (AT); Library and Learning Center (LLC): BIG Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft mbH, Vienna (AT)
Architect: LLC: Zaha Hadid Architects, Hamburg (DE)
Lighting design: LLC: Arup, Lighting Design, Berlin (DE)
Electrical consultants: LLC: Vasko + Partner Ingenieure, Vienna (AT)
Electrical installations: ARGE KM/E (Klenk&Meder / EMC), St. Pölten (AT)
The Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU) in the Green Prater is not only one of Vienna’s biggest new construction projects; it is also a milestone in Austria’s educational infrastructure. The university campus, erected in cooperation with the Austrian federal real estate company Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft (BIG), comprises different buildings whose planning involved six architecture studios from around the world: Zaha Hadid of Hamburg, Peter Cook of the Londonbased Crab Studio, NO.MAD Arquitectos of Madrid, Carme Pinós from Catalonia, the Japanese architect Hitoshi Abe and Laura Spinadel of the Viennese studio BUS. The result, wild and wonderful, is a playing field of contemporary architecture.

Campus of Knowledge
The centre of the spacious nine hectare campus is the Library & Learning Centre (LLC) designed by Zaha Hadid. With its sharp corners and bold lines the expressive building, which leans forward far over the forecourt, evokes the image of a futuristic command centre. The interior is also dominated by spaceship aesthetics with dramatically slanted walls, rounded edges and long, narrow walkways extending from one end of the room to the other. The LLC is flanked mainly by black & white, plain office and institution buildings. In striking contrast: the Teaching Center (TC), clad in Corten steel, and the red-orange-yellow Institute Cluster designed by Peter Cook.

The heterogeneous styles of the six planning architects also presented a challenge for the light planners. On the one hand it was necessary to adapt the light concept to the particular architectural character, alternating between subdued and dynamic; on the other hand, the number of products had to be reduced to a minimum with a goal towards efficient facility management. The end result: a total of 12,000 luminaires – including pendant luminaires, hidden cove luminaires and numerous individual light solutions – as well as seven kilometres of continuous row lighting.

The entire campus, which currently accommodates about 23,000 students and 1,500 employees, was designed in accordance with the green building concept. Of course, that also means installing efficient and sustainable light products, such as the SLOTLIGHT II light line, the CLARIS II pendant luminaire and LED luminaires of the PANOS INFINITY series. All lighting systems in the buildings are controlled by a common KNX bus controller; motion detectors are used to control the lights in the stairways and sanitary facilities, while the offices are equipped with a special light control system to optimise the use of daylight. In comparison with conventional solutions this combination uses far less energy.

One special aspect of this project: In addition to Zumtobel’s role as a commercial enterprise, the company was also responsible for the entire installation, in the form of a joint venture with four electrical installation companies.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
:envihab Institute for Aviation and Space
Cologne, Germany
Owner: National Aeronautics and Space Research Centre, Cologne (DE)
Architect: Grass Kramer Löbbert and Prof. Uta Graff Architekten, Berlin (DE)
Lighting design: Carpus + Partner AG, Hattersheim (DE)
Electrical consultants: Carpus + Partner AG, Hattersheim (DE)
Electrical installations: R+S Solutions GmbH, Radebeul (DE)
Lichtkonzept: Schlotfeldt Licht, Berlin (DE)
In the new “:envihab” research facility the DLR Institute for Aviation and Space Medicine tests the results of weightlessness and the physiological effects of light on humans. Both are interesting not only for space travel.

The Cologne Airport borders directly on the endless expanses of space – although there are no launching pads to be found here, since the travels into the orbit and beyond take place on the ground. Here at the Institute for Aviation and Space Medicine of the DLR National Aeronautics and Space Research Centre, simulations are conducted to test the effects of extended stays on board a spacecraft. Weightlessness is a special focus of the researchers, due to the complex physiological changes it can cause – such as muscle or bone degeneration.

Learning from Outer Space

A new research environment is now available for such studies: the “:envihab”, protected and supplied by an elongated, floating structure with a white, perforated façade directly across from the old institute building on the DLR grounds. The name “:envihab” is a contraction of “environment” and “habitat” and the facility is used for tests such as the “bed rest study” that can last up to three months and places only one requirement on the test subjects:
they have to stay in bed. This requirement is so stringent that the subjects are moved to a special bed when it is time for them to have a shower. And the surface is inclined six degrees so  that their heads are lower than their legs at all times – this position is especially favourable for simulating weightlessness, according to the researchers. The wraparound glass strip between the floor and ceiling and the six skylights allow ample daylight to enter the building.

For these “bed rest studies” alone the “:envihab” has twelve rooms, in addition to the afore-mentioned shower rooms, special carts, a completely furnished kitchen and a common room. Although not necessary for lying in bed for extended periods, it is needed for isolation studies on a group scale, simulating long journeys through space.

The “:envihab” sleep and physio-lab also deals with terrestrial matters. It is used, for example, to examine the effects of shift work, lack of sleep or irregular working hours – and the effect of light. The circadian rhythm of daylight defines human waking and sleeping phases – receptors in the retina register the change of short-wave light and control sleepiness by means of melatonin production. In the sleep labs this rhythm can be systematically delayed or even interrupted – in order to observe the effects on well-being, health and performance. The diffuse and variable light needed for these tests is provided by the luminous ceilings equipped with LEDs in the rooms, and also where the test subjects are examined by means of PTE (positron emission tomography) scans.

In cooperation with the DLR Institute Zumtobel developed the modular luminous ceiling, whose CIELOS LED elements can generate precise and dynamic luminous colours and luminances by means of the LITENET control system. The brightness can be dimmed continuously down to a minimum level without flickering and the RGB spectrum can also be varied as needed. The low installation height, durability and user-friendly maintenance were further arguments for an LED luminous ceiling.

The purpose of these circadian studies is not only to examine the interaction of light and the condition or performance of the test subjects, but also to clearly define the qualities of light necessary to prevent fatigue at the workplace or to reduce the effects of jet lag.

Of course, the “:envihab” does not consist only of the sleep and physio-lab; the complex comprises a total of eight research modules under one roof. The architecture is literally based on the house-in-house principle. All of the modules and the large auditorium are designed as separate structures beneath the roof construction, which defines the outward effect of the building and is actually more than just a roof. The steel support structure contains the building’s entire technical infrastructure. This was somewhat of a trick, since the 3,500 square metre interior – rather uncharacteristic for a research facility – presents itself as orderly and clearly structured.

The “:envihab” is also a symbol for a new self-conception in research – in the past, such facilities tended to be purely functional in nature; today, the publicity effect is increasing in importance. In addition to the exterior, this paradigm shift is apparent especially in the interior. The entrance on the ground level is connected by a wide and pleasantly designed stairway to the spacious entry hall. The large auditorium with seating for 150 and the restaurant infrastructure are designed as a location for external events. Although situated below the ground level, the entire interior is surprisingly illuminated by daylight – this is achieved not only by the wraparound glass strip between the floor and ceiling, but especially by a total of six light wells that penetrate the building vertically at different locations, establishing a connection with the sky – in keeping with the central theme of the DRL, which the architects adroitly interpreted.

The incompatibility of public utilisation with sensitive fundamental research necessitated a separation of the two areas by means of a partition. But since they are made of glass, the room volume can be experienced in its entirety together with the individual modules. In the centre, for example, there is a cylindrical module with solid concrete walls, with a short-arm centrifuge inside. This apparatus is used to explore whether increased gravity can be used selectively to counter the health risks of weightlessness. Initially in relation to long-term stays in space, the results will also bring new insight into down-to-earth issues such as osteoporosis, muscle degeneration and circulatory disorders.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
CMP – Center for Mobile Propulsion
Aachen, Germany
Owner: Bau- und Liegenschaftsbetrieb NRW, branch office Aachen (DE)
Architect: Lepel & Lepel Architektur Innenarchitektur, Cologne (DE)
Lighting design: a•g Licht GbR, Bonn (DE)
Electrical consultants: ZWP Ingenieur-AG, Cologne(DE)
A new research building with diametrically opposed utilisation requirements: this was the challenge faced by the architects Lepel & Lepel of Cologne, which they optimally met with their design for the R&D centre for motor technology at the RWTH Aachen University. From the very beginning the planners decided to house the research and administration/teaching areas in separate buildings. This resulted in the design of two contrasting structures that reflect the different utilisations spatially and technically.

The curved administrative building with its Z-shaped ground plan offers maximum flexibility in the interior. Since it is already apparent today that the administrative and instructional requirements can change in the future, the widespanned supporting structure allows for different room layouts. The wraparound façade banners emphasise the horizontal structure and universal usability of the building.

The high windows allow ample daylight to enter from all sides to ensure even illumination of the office areas. For supplemental illumination of the workplaces with artificial light the architects sought a solution that supports the desired flexibility in the spatial layout while enhancing the formal, reductionist design of the building. Together with the agency a∙g Licht based in Bonn a product was found that optimally fulfils all of the required criteria: ECOOS. The building owner was convinced not only by the high-quality light, but especially also by the long-term lower operating costs.

By way of complete contrast, the motor test centre is an introverted, elongated hall structure. The façade of darkened fairfaced concrete with only narrow slit windows emphasises this character. Inside, the building is rigidly organised, structured and adapted to the spatial and technical conditions of the test equipment. Despite the narrow windows, which make it possible to see the interior from outside, rows of windows in the roof allow sufficient daylight to enter the two-storey hall. The TECTON continuous row lighting system provides for optimal workplace lighting and orientation. Time-tested in industrial use, TECTON combines all of the elements needed here: optimal lighting quality even from large heights, flexible utilisation of space, high efficiency and easy maintenance.

A special feature is the advanced energy concept: the enormous waste of heat generated by the motor test runs can be used to heat the building. A foresighted approach to efficient reuse of energy, which benefits man and the environment.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Peter Doherty Institute
Melbourne, Australien
Owner: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne (AU)
Architect: Grimshaw Billard Leece, Melbourne (AU)
Lighting design: S2F/SKM, Melbourne (AU)
Die University of Melbourne ist offizieller Gold Sponsor des Green Building Council Australia, der bereits seit seiner Gründung 2002 an ökologisch herausragende Projekte die landesweit begehrten „Green Stars“ vergibt. Teil der Hochschulpolitik ist es, mit jeder Sanierung und jedem Neubau auf dem Universitäts-Campus die Green Star-Zertifizierung anzustreben.

Das kürzlich fertiggestellte Peter Doherty Institute, das auf der südlichen Hemisphäre als einziges Forschungsinstitut seiner Art gilt, wurde mit dem Fünfsterne-„Green Star“ ausgezeichnet.

„In einem komplexen Laborgebäude wie diesem ist der Stromverbrauch fünf- bis zehnmal höher als in einem herkömmlichen Bürobau”, sagt Chris White, Executive Director of Property and Campus Services an der University of Melbourne. „Daher ist es bei diesem Bauwerk sehr wichtig, einen entscheidenden Beitrag zur Energie- und Ressourceneinsparung zu leisten.“ Das Resultat ist ein zehnstöckiges High-Tech-Gebäude mit 25.000 Quadratmetern Nutzfläche, Kraft-Wärme-Kopplung, Grauwassernutzung und begrünter Dachlandschaft. Das Peter Doherty Institute ist so konstruiert, dass es gut 50 % weniger Strom als ein ähnlich angelegtes Objekt vergleichbarer Größe verbraucht.

Die Planer hinter diesem hocheffizienten Bauwerk, das an der sonnenzugewandten Nordseite mit einer doppelschaligen Vorhang-Fassade verkleidet ist, sind die international agierenden Grimshaw Architects in Zusammenarbeit mit der auf Forschungs- und Gesundheitseinrichtungen spezialisierten Akademie Billard Leece. Auf produktionsintensive Materialien wie Aluminium wurde nach Möglichkeit verzichtet, stattdessen wurde beim Bau FSC-zertifiziertes Holz im Wert von 5,2 Millionen US-Dollar integriert. Außerdem maximiert die Konstruktion die Tageslichtnutzung soweit wie möglich. Nicht so in einigen Laboren.

Forschen wie unter Tageslicht
Die strengen Anforderungen in einigen Bereichen erforderten eine weitestgehende Vermeidung von Tageslicht. Eingesetzt wurden daher rund 2.000 Büroleuchten MILDES LICHT V. Mit 1,25 Watt und 100 Lux pro Quadratmeter sind die Einbauleuchten so konfiguriert und positioniert, dass der Eindruck von hellem, durch Dachfenster fallendem Sonnenlicht entsteht. Denn für die rund 700 Forscherinnen und Forscher, die am „Doherty“ arbeiten, ist es notwendig, bestmögliche, freundliche und die Konzentration und Motivation fördernde Arbeitsbedingungen zu schaffen.

In den übrigen Bereichen des „Doherty“ wurden dezente, harmonische Lichtquellen genutzt. Die Herausforderung lag darin, Licht und Schatten zu begrenzen, um die fließende Geometrie hervorzuheben und die visuelle Wirkung der organisch geformten Holzrippen zu verstärken. Eingesetzt wurden ausschließlich natürliche Materialien. Linear angeordnete Leuchten betonen die organischen Formen, die einen Ausgleich zum schlichten und zweckmäßigen Design der Labore herstellen.

Zumtobel. Das Licht.

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Lighting solution
Manillaskolan
Stockholm, Sweden
Owner: Akademiska Hus, Solna (SE)
Architect: Metod Arkitekter AB, Uppsala (SE)
Lighting design: MIAB/Tyréns AB Simon Baczkowski, Stockholm (SE)
Electrical consultants: MIAB/Tyréns AB Simon Baczkowski, Stockholm (SE)
Electrical installations: Ohmegi Elektro AB, Sollentuna (SE)
“Manillaskolan” is the oldest institution of its kind in Sweden. It was founded in 1809 by Pär Aron Borg and until 2013 was accommodated in a historic building dating back to 1864, situated on the island of Djurgården in the east of Stockholm. Formerly, the students were taught exclusively in the sign language developed by Borg for the Swedish. The main focus of teaching used to be on religion and craftsmanship, with lessons in languages and literature, arithmetic, geography and natural sciences given as well. However, on-going research and technological development during the past years have resulted in the lessons' ever-increasing bilingual orientation. Today, many hearing-impaired people are able to learn spoken language with the help of hearing aids and special hearing/speech training. This has a major influence on the present and future design of the classrooms. While acoustic issues did never play any role in the past, they are increasingly put into the focus now, thanks to the new teaching methods.

In this context, the lighting system, too, becomes increasingly important. The lessons held in sign language are supported by well-balanced and glare-free illumination of the classrooms. What is even more important: the luminaire drivers must be absolutely noiseless, since otherwise interferences with the students' hearing aids would occur. Following various tests involving a number of products, it turned out that LIGHT FIELDS LED were the only luminaires that met all these requirements.

The Manillaskolan is now accommodated in a new location in Kungsholmen, a borough in central Stockholm. Here a campus has been built that includes a number of schools and special educational facilities in buildings formerly housing institutes of Stockholm University. Even before the refurbishment, students, teachers and parents were given the opportunity to visit trial classrooms and discuss their expectations and needs. Thus, the students are now provided with facilities that are up to date, versatile and ideally suited to their needs.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
Everest Community College
Hampshire, England
Owner: Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Architect: Jonathan Skipper of Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Lighting design: Steve Perry of Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Lighting technology: Steve Perry of Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Electrical installations: Steve Perry of Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Photos: David Thrower of Redshift Photography
Thanks to their aesthetically pleasing energy efficient luminaires, Zumtobel were the chosen lighting manufacturer for the Everest Community College in Basingstoke.

The inspiration behind Everest Community College was to create an architecturally pleasing space with sustainable objectives, maximising low energy design, natural ventilation and lighting.

The college provide state-of-the-art facilities with a stimulating and inspirational environment for staff, students and the wider community.

Steve Perry and Jonathan Skipper of Hampshire County Council were challenged with the task of selecting an energy efficient lighting scheme which would incorporate daylight linking throughout the school.

The chosen luminaires had to comply with both Part L2A (Conservation of Fuel and Power in New Buildings) and BB90 (Building Bulletin 90: Lighting Design for Schools) which relate to the CO² emissions and energy efficiency requirements in building regulations. The building had to be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and power than is reasonable in the circumstances.

Due to their innovative energy efficient luminaires, Zumtobel were the ideal lighting manufacturer for the college.

Throughout the classroom areas suspended continuous direct / indirect SPHEROS luminaires provide an asethetically pleasing design. The louvre optic helps prevent glare and ensures that both the room and ceiling shine with perfect brightness.

PERLUCE mounted on TECTON creates the desired effect in the college's workshops. The versatility and effectiveness of Zumtobel's TECTON continuous row lighting system made it the ideal solution. The modular system is completely adaptable for a large variety of scenes. The specially designed current coducting section within the trunking of the luminaire revolutionises the mounting steps for continuous row lighting systems, making them variable and dramatically reducing labour time and costs. Mounted onto the TECTON trunking, PERLUCE with its high efficency, maintainability and functionality was the perfect solution. Its clean and simple design fits in well with the architecture. Combining the advantage of innovative louvre technology with excellent lighting quality and extraordinary light output ratios, enables the luminaire to fufil the most exacting of tasks. With their sensitive technical lighting components with protection against dust and damage they are the perfect solution for a workshop environment.

MELLOWLIGHT IV with its high light output ratio and low energy efficiency, was the ideal choice for the reception and gym areas. The modern microprismatic system, with an innovative cross pattern of two layers of high grade optical PMMA/PC, are decisive factors in achieving the high energy efficiency and balancing this with lighting quality. The high-grade prisms positioned at right angles, one above the other, look like an exquisitely cut diamond and help to provide the excellent light output ratio and glare control.

In the corridors and dining area PANOS downlight luminaires blend inconspicuously and discreetly into the buildings expressive architecture. The sophisticated modular design made PANOS the obvious choice.

Also installed in the dining area are SLOTLIGHT light lines. The soothingly pure light in uniformly illuminated lines make SLOTLIGHT the perfect design feature. Instead of displaying a luminaire unit, the light line focuses on providing an outstanding lighting effect. Tetris technology and a separate white painted sheet steel reflector provide pleasantly uniform light distribution. The flow of the light line is barely interrupted by any distracting shadows thanks to Tetris technology and the overlapping arrangement of T16 light sources.

In the library, MIREL FEL luminaires create a motivating lighting ambience. The trend setting innovative lumainire with BIVERGENZ louvre technology provides all round glare free light and maximum lighting efficency.

BEGA wall luminaires complement the exterior of the college with their direct / indirect light distribution offering great versatility in lighting potential. The specially finished safety glass prevents dust and moisture to the elements.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
University of Edinburgh Veterinary Studies
Edinburgh, Scotland
Owner: University of Edinburgh
Architect: BDG McColl
Lighting technology: White Young Green
Photos: David Thrower of Redshift Photography
Zumtobel have created an energy efficient lighting scheme at the new University of Edinburgh School of Veterinary Studies.

The purpose-built Edinburgh University School of Veterinary Studies was officially opened on 27th September 2011 by The Princess Royal, who is the University’s Chancellor and Patron of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.

The building has been designed to support world-class veterinary education and future vets will benefit from a £42 million teaching facility. The campus forms one of the largest vet school campuses in the world.

More than 1,000 staff and students can be accommodated within the new building, which is based next to the school’s hospitals for small and large animals, enabling students to gain a range of practical experience. It includes lecture theatres, fitted with multi-media technology, a library, seminar rooms, teaching laboratories and a restaurant.

When it came to the lighting design for the building, Consulting Engineer White Young Green in conjunction with Architect BDG MColl, had the difficult job of selecting a suitable luminaire manufacturer. Their brief was to create a glare free efficient lighting scheme for the classrooms and the laboratories and for the atriums a dramatic lighting design with easy maintenance.

Zumtobel's MELLOW LIGHT IV luminaire was selected as the ideal solution for the vet school's classrooms as the luminaire offers perfect glare free illumination. The MELLOW LIGHT IV benefits from low energy consumption and a high light output ratio. The microprismatic system with an innovative cross pattern made of two layers of high-grade optical PMMA/PC, is a decisive factor in helping the school achieve high energy efficiency and balancing this with excellent lighting quality.

For the laboratories, Zumtobel's CLEAN and PERLUCE luminaires have been installed. The CLEAN luminaire designed especially for use in all cleanroom areas, features a unique smooth safety glass diffuser. It's innovative magnetic fasteners combine safety with functionality. The high quality, continuous precision-formed foam seal makes the joint between the diffuser and the luminaire housing perfectly tight - a breather valve inside the luminaire ensures the necessary equalisation during operating hours with positive and negative pressure containment, thereby guaranteeing the CLEAN's IP 65 protection. The continuous, non-aging seals are resistant to chemicals and precision-formed to ensure a high degree of protection with enhanced stablity underlying the luminaires overall high quality.

The PERLUCE's lighting technology, coupled with it's efficiently protected light source against dust and dirt made it ideal for the laboratory areas. The easy-clean state-of-the-art materials and smooth surfaces provide easy maintenance, thereby extending intervals and reducing costs accordingly. The PERLUCE uses much less energy than conventional luminaires to achieve the desired level of illuminance.

To create the dramatic design for the schools atria, White Young Green and BDG McColl selected Zumtobel's MIROS projector mirror system. The highly efficient, easy adjustable system is very functional. The multi-spherical surface structure of the mirror enables light to be distributed evenly, even into areas that would normally be hard to reach and also prevents unwanted glare. MIROS is very easy to install and low maintenance.The high technical quality of the projector makes it an impressive light source, as does the attractive, minimalist design with its functional outlines. The light from the projector is highly concentrated, minimising scattering losses when reflected from the mirror.

SLOTLIGHT continuous lightlines were selected for the school's corridors and breakout areas. The SLOTLIGHT luminaires with their pure light in uniformly illuminated lines are the perfect design feature. The Teris technology and a seperate white painted sheet steel reflector provide plesantly uniform light distribution. The flow of the light line is barely interrupted by any distracting dark shadows thanks to the Tetris technology of the overlapping arrangement of the T16 light source.

The client is delighted with the result of the lighting design and this building is one of many projects that Zumtobel Lighting have done for the University of Edinburgh.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Lighting solution
University of Dundee
Dundee, Scotland
Owner: University of Dundee
Architect: Campbell and Arnott Architects
Lighting design: White Young Green
Lighting technology: White Young Green
Photos: Redshift Photography
Zumtobel's luminaires have helped the University of Dundee create a welcoming, modern and well lit environment in their new University Campus.

The University of Dundee is one of the UK's leading universities, internationally recognised for its expertise across a range of disciplines including, science, medicine, engineering and art.

In 2007, the University celebrated 40 years since it became an independent university after a 70 year relationship with the University of St. Andrews.

The University has seen some major changes in that time. The past decade has been a particularly exciting time of progression and change - since 1994 the University has more than doubled in size.

The University continues to move forward and has recently completed a £200 million redevelopment programme for the city centre campus. A major reorganisation of the academic structure was also recently introduced.

The vision behind the refurbishment of the University was to create a bright and modern environment to encourage future enrolment. The most innovative technology and facilites were also crucial factors. Zumtobel's luminaires fitted very well into this vision, where manufacturing innovative luminaires and using the latest technology is of paramount importance to us. The University were particularly looking for extremely good vertical illumination of the building.

Zumtobel's MELLOWLIGHT IV with its high light output ratio and low energy efficiency, was the ideal choice for the classrooms. The modern microprismatic system, with an innovative cross pattern of two layers of high grade optical PMMA/PC, are decisive factors in achieving the high energy efficiency and balancing this with lighting quality.

2LIGHT modular downlights and MIREL FEW recessed asymmetric luminaires create a vibrant, unyet relaxed appearance in the corridors and breakout zones.

The revolutionary 2LIGHT impresses with it's successful combination of clear-cut forms and sleek materials. The easy-to-maintain sealed system ensures maintenance costs are disregarded.

With their homogreneous asymmetric beam pattern, the MIREL FEW recessed luminaire is ideal for vertical wall illumination. Their special wallwasher effect, with slimline appearence, creates a harmonious, lively atmosphere. The MIREL FEW uses innovative BIVERGENZ technology. This louvre technology provides four great benefits, ideal batwing distribution for optimum uniformity, soft all-round glare control, narrow louvre width and utmost efficiency.

In the University's stairwell, KAVA wall luminaires help to accentuate and direct the route. The design and elegance of the clear lines of decorative luminaire blend effortlessly into the interior design.

KAVA LED luminaires accompanied with SLOTLIGHT lightlines and PANOS downlights, create a visually pleasing experience throughout the lecture theatres.

The unique KAVA LED luminaires provide brilliant colour illumination to the steps on the lecture theatre's aisles creating an exceptional lighting atmosphere. Soothingly pure light in uniformly illuminated lines make SLOTLIGHT the perfect design feature. Instead of displaying a luminaire unit, the light line focuses on providing an outstanding lighting effect. The PANOS downlights help win people over with their refined looks and innovative technology.

The University is made extremely energy efficient by the use of Zumtobel's LUXMATE PROFESSIONAL lighting contols.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Bridge Learning Campus
Bristol, England
Owner: Bristol City Council
Architect: Wilkinson Eyre Architects
Photos: David Thrower of Redshift Photography
Zumtobel's luminaires have been brightening up the lives of students at the Bridge Learning Campus, Bristol.

The Bridge Learning Campus is the first of its kind in Bristol and one of very few all through schools in the United Kingdom. Occupying a £40 million site by September 2009 the family of schools will include a primary school, a secondary school, a special school, a student support centre and a dedicated Bridge College Centre offering all levels of vocational qualifications for 14 to 19 students as well as adults. Bridge Learning Campus will provide ‘schools within a school’ – each having its own space and its own distinctiveness.

When it came to the building's design, Bristol City Council challenged Buro Happold Consulting Engineers, in conjunction with Wilkinson Eyre Architects, to find a high quality lighting solution for the learning campus that was priced within the schools standard education budget.

An array of Zumtobel's lighting solutions were selected for their high quality innovation which have set a precedent throughout the school.

In the classrooms and toilets PANOS downlights blend inconspicously and discreetly into the building's architecture. Their sophisticated and consistent modular design has helped reflect the schools high quality interior.

In the corridors, SLOTLIGHT luminaires with their pure light in uniformly illuminated lines are the perfect design feature. The Teris technology and a seperate white painted sheet steel reflector provide plesantly uniform light distribution. The flow of the light line is barely interrupted by any distracting dark shadows thanks to the Tetris technology of the overlapping arrangement of the T16 light source.

PERLUCE with its exceptional life efficiency and maintainability is the perfect general purpose lighting solution for the Learning Campus' stairwells. The enclosed design provides optimum T5 lamp operating temperatures with the added benefit of an IP50 (or IP54) easy clean exterior. The PERLUCE is not just efficient, but has become a classic Zumtobel design input which gives a clean, understated appearance that fits in well with the building's interior.

In the assembly halls, the versatility of Zumtobel's TECTON trunking system has been utilised. The efficient continuous row lighting system, is orientated toward future trends in technology. Great importance was given to optimising handling and installation with the design of TECTON. The special current conducting section within the trunking of the luminaire revolutionises the mounting steps for the continuous row lighting system, making them variable and dramatically reducing labour time and costs. Its plain and clear design with slim lines ensure an unobtrusive appearance of asethetic merits which keeps all application options open.

Installed into the Learning Campus' canteen, COPA high bay reflector luminaires have been installed creating a highly decorative effect. The most striking feature of these high-bay luminaires is the finned surface of the upper part of the housing. With the aid of the aluminium diecasting process, the design has integrated technology which is a formal element of the luminaire. The volume of the housing has been minimised thanks to the excellent heat dissipation. COPA's facetted reflector creates a brilliant and vast array of illumination throughout the canteen. The semi-translucent reflectors allow the light source to gleam through and provide noticeable accent lighting.

The exterior surround of the building has complimented the interior with a number of BEGA exterior luminaires.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Reykjavik University
Reykjavik, Island
Owner: EFF, Reykjavik (IS)
Architect: Henning Larsen Architects, Kopenhagen (DK); ARKIS Architects, Reykjavik (IS)
Lighting design: VERKIS, Reykjavik (IS)
Electrical installations: Rafmiolum hf, Reykjavik (IS)
Clear Nordic design

Situated halfway between Europe's and North America's established science centres, Reykjavik University is turning into a new research and technology top spot. Its architectural design, too, deserves special attention: the individual faculties are arranged radially around a circular hub. The campus opens up in a fan-shaped manner towards the beach and forest areas surrounding it, incorporating them into the premises. Apart from endowing all of the rooms with the unique quality of a natural environment, this layout also permits optimum illumination and heating with natural daylight - a crucial aspect of the sustainability of the building, in which trendsetting technologies are not only part of everyday life but are also part of the curriculum.

For the major part of the building, the engineers developed a ceiling system made of perforated sheet steel blades, which was also intended to accommodate the lighting system. In order to meet the vast range of requirements in the best possible manner, the client organised a competition. Zumtobel's most convincing point: despite its small dimensions and the fact that it fully met glare control requirements, the T5 luminaire's light output ratio could be improved by more than 1.5 percent compared with standard technologies. This has been made possible by translucent lateral reflectors, optimised miniature louvres and a perfect lamp operating temperature. From the design point of view, the luminaire could not fail to impress on account of its modular system that is able to adjust to a variety of visual tasks in lecture halls, seminar rooms, offices, libraries and circulation areas - mounted on a gear tray, installed as a wallwasher or as a model with open light distribution.

The LUXMATE LITENET lighting and blinds control system has been developed further to take account of the special local lighting conditions characterised by the Nordic sun's shallow-angle radiation over long periods of time. In this way, high efficiency and maximum comfort were combined with the option of responding flexibly to changing area-use plans, with minimum effort. Most of the luminaires were supplied with so-called Dimming On Demand (DOD) ballasts, allowing for major cost savings as a large number of luminaires were installed.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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EPFL Rolex Learning Center
Lausanne, Switzerland
Owner: Losinger Construction SA, Bussigny (CH)
Architect: SANAA, Tokio (JP)
Electrical consultants: Scherler SA, Le Mont/Lausanne (CH)
Electrical installations: ETF, Bulle (CH)
Dynamic roomscape

With its translucent skins and round patios, the pavilion designed by SANAA is the new heart of the École Polytechnique Féderále de Lausanne's campus. In an area of 17,000 m², it accommodates a library, conference rooms, students' workstations, offices for researchers, cafeterias, a top restaurant, a book store, a multifunctional auditorium and - very Swiss - a branch bank. However, the Pritzker Prize-winning architects had definitely more in mind than providing functional rooms. The new building is meant to foster interdisciplinary exchange among scientists, and above all seeks to establish an appropriate position for EPFL in the global research scene.

The building is made up of a single large-scale room with casually arranged functional areas, radiating impressive openness. The dynamic topography of the floor and ceiling creates a fascinating roomscape, divided into zones by a variety of lighting scenes. In the process, the ceiling is not only changed by daylight but also reflects the artificial lighting back into the room. The building is certified according to the Minergie standard, and luminaires with a very high output ratio had to be installed because of the building's size and in line with SANAA's request for indirect lighting.

The specially developed luminaires have been installed as individual luminaires or in twin or triplet configurations, allowing to create any lighting situation required by using a single creative design element. Thanks to the luminaires' flexible fixture, a variety of different angles can be set in relation to the diffusely reflecting ceiling. Many of the total of 282 custom luminaires have been fitted with an extra 100 W halogen lamp for emergency lighting purposes, in addition to a 35 W HIT metal halide lamp with a special IOS reflector system. In the lobby and reception area, LED downlights and elegant light lines additionally provide functional lighting while setting creative accents. In the offices, which have been designed as circular booths, minimalist free-standing luminaires create a pleasant working atmosphere.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Tomás Bata University Centre
Zlín, Czech Republic
Owner: Tomáš-Bata-Universität, Zlín (CZ)
Architect: Al Design s.r.o. und Eva Jiricna Architects, Prag (CZ)
Joy of learning

The new university centre of the Tomá Bata University in Zlín is a symbol of the city's investment into its citizens and their future – and an appropriate tribute to the visionary ideals of the philantropist and industrialist after whom it was named.

The building's extraordinary structure is based on two crescent-shaped units accommodating the reading rooms, classrooms and book archives. Between the units there is a spacious atrium lit from the top where people find space to relax. The staircase towers located at both ends of the curved façade form the main vertical link between the galleries along both sides of the atrium, giving the building an uncluttered, practical look. This very clear design, which is typical of architect Eva Jiřičná, with maximum functionality is also reflected in the lighting system.

The clear lines of the building are emphasized by equally clear SLOTLIGHT light lines installed in the rooms. Thanks to its calm, geometrical stylistic idiom, CLARIS II, which is frequently used in school buildings, could not fail to impress either. In the centrally located atrium, it has been installed as a continuous row system with a total length of 54 m. Both direct and indirect light is provided throughout the room, providing a uniform, warm and diffuse lighting scene. In the other main areas, SLOTLIGHT and MIREL II lighting systems have been installed to supplement the light reflected by the atrium. MIREL II louvre luminaires assembled to form architecturally striking light lines provide uniform, glare-free lighting for the libraries and computer workstations.
For highlighting the edges and lines along the windows and peripheral areas, fluorescent lamps have been recessed into the ceilings and walls, underlining the sculptural interior design. The Tomá Bata University is a trendsetting example of how to perfectly integrate lighting into a design concept.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Royal Northern College of Music
Manchester, England
Owner: Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester (GB)
Architect: MBLA Architects + Urbanists, Manchester (GB)
Electrical consultants: Gifford and Partners, Manchester (GB)
Display windows for music

The striking new building of the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester's city centre attracts attention. Cubes nested into each other demonstrate monumental geometry seemingly in contrast with the building's purpose - the lightness of music. The building's very small floor area has been used to optimum effect by adding an acoustic buffer against traffic noise doubling up as a shop window for the college. Additional appeal is achieved by lighting in variable colours, which turns the space into a glowing light box with spectacular colour changes, attracting the attention of passers-by. Inside, the lighting system is supplemented by the flush-mounted LIGHTTOOLS lighting channel system incorporating four different lighting modules: spotlights, downlights, linear luminaires and wallwashers.

In almost every area, large windows and skylights allow plenty of daylight to enter the room. Where this is not sufficient, artifical lighting is added via the lighting management system. In concert with pleasant colours and ergonomically compatible furniture, rooms of experience are created that make students want to learn - flexibly and conveniently, and with a focus on saving resources.
According to Craig Jackson from Gifford and Partners, who specified the lighting, the lighting design was strongly influenced by the acoustically sensitive environment. “The luminaires must be robust and without parts which could reverberate from the sound of the instruments,” says Jackson. This special challenge has been met by the LIGHTFIELDS recessed luminaire, which, due to its special micro-pyramidal optic, provides extremely uniform, glare-free light, helping to increase the brilliant young students' concentration.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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KHBO – Katholieke Hogeschool
Brügge, Belgium
Owner: KHBO, Katholieke Hogeschool, Brugge Oostende (BE)
Architect: Tijdelijke Vereniging S.A.R. – De Vloed, Heusden-Destelbergen (BE)
Electrical consultants: Studiebureau De Klerck Engineering, Brügge (BE)
Electrical installations: Electro Entreprise NV, Gullegem (BE)
Creating a landmark

The new building of the Catholic University College in Bruges is a landmark characterised by architectural contradictions. The façade towards the street is closed, featuring only a single window in the study department, while the façade towards the campus presents itself extremely open. Exciting contrasts are created by a combination of steel, glass, concrete and wood. At the same time, the modular approach allows for adjusting the building to new studying requirements in the future.

The atrium has been designed as a three-dimensional junction featuring wide stairs, open galleries as well as seating areas and islands for studying. According to the architects' preferences, the building was to be fitted mainly with indirect lighting. The MIROS projector-mirror system provides an architecturally sophisticated and technically perfect lighting solution, illuminating the up to 10 m high rooms with uniform, glare-free light. The system's warm light creates a fascinating contrast to the rather cool concrete/glass architecture. Concludes Koen De Klerck: "Using both functional and atmospheric lighting we have sought to enhance the architecture and the building's surroundings even further. In the process, both flexibility and maintenance aspects have been taken into account." The projector-mirror system appears to be part of the building design, and has also been installed in the two auditoriums and the cafeteria.

The lecture halls and seminar rooms, which are accommodated in the three striking blocks, can be reached via the auditorium. In the classrooms, MIREL recessed luminaires installed flush in the ceiling provide plenty of light. In the circulation areas, a special section with indirect distribution provides pleasant, glare-free light.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Gent University – Campus Schoonmersen
Gent, Belgium
Owner: Hogeschool Gent, Campus Schoonmeersen (OLC), Gent (BE)
Architect: cv baro, Gent (BE)
Electrical installations: Technum, Sint-Denijs-Westr (BE)
Top rating for Zumtobel lighting solution

The latest showcase project of Gent University was designed by architects from the cv baro studio: in addition to a number of flats, Schoonmeersen Campus also accommodates several cafeterias and the Hogeschool’s sports centre.

The clients opted for the TECTON continuous-row lighting system to be installed in large areas of the building complex. Fitted with high-quality matt reflector optics, the continuous-row lighting system provides pleasant lighting conditions in classrooms and auditoriums, as well as in the reception area and in the library. All these rooms are fitted with suspended acoustic ceiling panels. This is why it would have been very difficult to use conventional recessed luminaires, which would also have required considerable compromise in terms of design. The flexible TECTON continuous-row lighting system proved to be the ideal solution. Like the acoustic ceiling panels, the track system can be suspended as well, so that the luminaires now match the architecture perfectly.

The TECTON lighting system installed at Gent University creates optimum lighting conditions in classrooms, and is also highly efficient.

Another argument in favour of TECTON is its pre-wired eleven-pole track: using the integrated DALI bus line, the luminaires installed in the library and the cafeteria enable daylight-based lighting control. The result is a lighting solution controlled via LUXMATE PROFESSIONAL which provides a pleasant lighting atmosphere 24 hours a day and at the same time reduces energy consumption considerably. In order to keep maintenance costs as low as possible, projector/mirror systems were installed in the entrance area and the five-metre high corridor zones, which allowed to mount the spotlights used at an accessible height so that only a minimum of time is required for relamping.

Quite different, however, is the situation in the cafeteria. Thanks to modern furniture and green transparent chairs, a playful touch is added to these areas – also because of the COPA D high-bay reflector luminaire used. The large roof protecting the footpath between the two buildings of Schoonmersen Campus is illuminated by high-pressure halogen spotlights and RAIN moisture-proof luminaires.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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Cooper Union
New York, USA
Owner: The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, New York (US)
Architect: Morphosis Architects, Los Angeles, New York (US)
Lighting design: Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design, Los Angeles (US)
A meteorite in Manhattan

The new university building of the Cooper Union located in New York's East Village presents itself as an angular metal structure. The spectacular architecture designed by Pritzker Prize winner Thom Mayne boasts a lighting system based on an equally fascinating lighting design. During the day, the structure shines in white to metal anthracite grey; at night, it softly glows from inside.

This work by the California-based architect creates controversy among New Yorkers, breaking established conventions and being ahead of the times. As a sign of provocation, for instance, Mayne has made the elevator stop only on three out of nine floors. This feature ultimately directs the students' and visitors' attention towards the staircase, unless they have not been attracted earlier by its breathtaking architecture. Like a huge vortex, it ascends upwards across all the floors, opening up towards the sky. Through a large skylight, daylight enters and floods down right to the ground floor.
The upper floors are therefore flooded with bluish daylight, which, as it travels downwards, gradually mixes with increasingly warm artificial lighting provided by VIVO spotlights.

In the other areas of the building, the lighting concept is based on specific functions. In the laboratories, for instance, twice as many light sources have been used as in the seminar rooms, in order to make subtle colours differences and details more easily perceptible. The seminar rooms and numerous laboratories presented a special technical lighting challenge: the luminous panels installed in the ceiling had to be integrated in the heating and cooling modules also installed in the ceiling. A tricky task, yet readily taken care of on account of the building's general environmental compatibility. With this design, Thom Mayne has set new standards, not only in terms of visual attraction. As the first university building in the USA, the new Cooper Union building is about to receive the LEED Platinum Award, the country's most important environmental compatibility prize.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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  • SPIRIT
  • SPHEROS T16
Cité d’Architecture et du Patrimoine
Paris, France
Owner: Cité d’Architecture et du Patrimoine (FR)
Architect: Agence Bodin, Paris (FR)
Lighting design: Agence Bodin, Paris (FR)
Electrical consultants: GEC Ingenierie, Paris (FR)
The light of France

There are not many venues dedicated so completely to architecture and showing this in such an impressive way like the modern neo-classical Palais Chaillot on the Seine. Following careful renovation, the world's largest Architecture Centre was opened in the building's magnificent east wing in 2007. Since then, the prestigious building has accommodated several institutions that bring historical and modern architecture and France's cultural heritage together under one roof.

The lighting design of the spacious entrance hall on the ground floor imparts this area with a clear structure, enhancing visitor orientation and centralising access to the various areas. The light lines set in the ceiling trace the main axes of the hall along the monumental columns.

The open-access library with its high-ceilinged, flowing rooms houses some 28,000 books. Jean Francois Bodin has managed, without major interference with the fabric of the building, to create a functional, contemporary library interior. The reconstructed fresco cycle from Saint Savin sur Gartempe Abbey has been set centre stage using a luminaire especially developed for this purpose. The barrel vault of the 40 m long room is flooded by warm light provided by reflectors based on the TECTON system, which have been installed above the shelves on the wall.

The impressive gallery of architecture expands across the curved room occupying the complete second floor of the wide building tract. The central exhibition area is illuminated uniformly by seven large, backlit ceiling rotundas; the lighting can be controlled to provide a variety of illuminance levels, if required.

Zumtobel. The Light.

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