Although incandescent lights are being phased out across the EU and energy efficient lighting solutions will be introduced, the lighting industry has been relatively slow to promote innovative and well designed low energy lighting solutions. The Monument presented a unique challenge as the structure predates electric lighting. The old scheme was typically unsympathetic, utilising large and unsightly bulkhead fittings.

The designers set out to create a new solution with minimal visual intrusion. Special linear LED sources were designed to the same dimension and profile as the iron stair balustrade spindles. Finished in the same colour and fixed by metal straps, the new lighting is barely noticeable to visitors.  

The original finish of the walls – a limed wash – was reinstated. The limed wash gives excellent reflectance and supports the indirect lighting solutions which were installed. The lighting designers had to strike a balance between providing the right mood inside this historic structure and safety requirements and decided to keep the illumination levels at approximately 50 lux average. The emergency lighting is a central battery system which feeds 25% of the standard LED balustrade sources.   

The big advantages of the new lighting solution are its low energy use (1.3kWh), longevity and minimum maintenance.

Over 100.000 visitors climb the 311 spiral steps every year to the Monument’s observation gallery to enjoy the unique and exhilarating views across London. On the way up and down they can now also admire a forward thinking energy efficient lighting solution.

The lighting solution was developed by Light Bureau. For more details on the project and the project partners, please visit their website www.lightbureau.com .

© thequietriot.com 2010

Besides the standard low energy bulbs, LED is emerging as an innovative and highly energy efficient technology. LED’s are very durable and can last up to 100,000 hours and what is more, 80% of the energy they use is turned into light. In an incandescent light 80% of the energy used is turned into heat.

The Japanese designer Chicako Ibaraki works with LED’s and in her Line light she combines the purity and tranquillity of natural light with a simple form and the need to be careful with resources:

I saw a line of light shine in, through a small window

It was simple, clear and sharp. The room’s stillness was created by the light.

I wanted to capture the line of the light.

Chicako Ibaraki

Line/floor light/2008, Material: acrylic diffuser, metal base, Size: W400xD400xH1400, Photo: Satoshi Asakawa

M.HAUS 2009