The International Day of Light, celebrated annually on May 16th, highlights the profound impact of light across various aspects of our lives – from science and technology to art, education, and sustainable development. This year, we turn our focus to the power of design in shaping our experience with light, showcasing three remarkable projects recently recognized at the LIT Lighting Design Awards.

Holdergasse

Prize(s) Winners in Interior Architectural Illumination

Company spektrum

Lead Designer Paul Ehlert

Other Designer’s Names John Read, Iris Mueller

Photo Credits Olex

Project Location Vaduz, Liechtenstein

Winner in the Interior Architectural Illumination category, Holdergasse by spektrum architects exemplifies the harmonious fusion of light and materiality. The residence, located in Vaduz, Liechtenstein, is a sequence of spaces sculpted through a play of light and shadow. Natural materials like swamp lime plaster, oak wood, and untreated concrete come alive under the carefully curated lighting scheme.

The design prioritizes integration. Light fixtures are seamlessly incorporated into the architecture, with lines following the staircase and terraces illuminated for a touch of outdoor ambience. Functional lighting is also cleverly integrated into ceilings and furniture, ensuring both aesthetics and practicality. The overall effect is one of warmth and unity, where light enhances the tactile experience of the space.

Furthermore, sustainability plays a key role in Holdergasse. The lighting concept was developed for the entire project, carefully in collaboration with the electrical engineers so that we could ensure the building is energy efficient and ecological. Each room has been studied with energy efficiency software to maximize the sustainability of the building.

Hengqin iCity, China

Prize(s) Winners in Exterior Architectural Illumination

Company LWK + PARTNERS

Lead Designer Rebecca Wong

Other Designer’s names Barry Mok

Client iCity (Hengqin) Project Development Co., Ltd.

LWK + PARTNERS’ design for Hengqin iCity, China, takes the spotlight in the Exterior Architectural Illumination category. This iconic development comprises four high-rise towers and a central landmark – the “Animation World.” The lighting strategy focuses on highlighting this central structure, transforming it into a mesmerizing centerpiece.

Inspired by the cosmos, the “Animation World” is adorned with color-changing LED lights, simulating the Milky Way’s ethereal glow. Light fixtures are strategically hidden within the building’s façade, subtly enhancing its polyhedral features while minimizing visual impact during daylight hours. Additionally, colored linear lights outline the building’s unique cutouts, further adding to the otherworldly aesthetic.

Throughout the complex, scattered light boxes act as spotlights, drawing attention to the “Animation World” as the main stage. This interplay of light and darkness creates a captivating spectacle, transforming iCity into a spectacle visible from afar.

The Perelman Performing Arts Center

Prize(s) Winners in Cultural Building Lighting Design

Company Tillotson Design Associates

Lead Designers Suzan Tillotson, Erin Dreyfous, Gabriela Grullon, Nour Traboulsi, Trinetra Manickavasagam

Other Designers REX, Davis Brody Bond, Front, Arup, Atelier Ten, Charcoalblue, Jaros Baum & Bolles

Client Perelman Performing Arts Center at the World Trade Center

Photo Credits Iwan Baan, Jonathan Morefield Photography

Project Location New York, NY

Tillotson Design Associates’ design for The Perelman Performing Arts Center in New York City features a translucent, veined marble façade that comes alive after dark. Custom-designed chandeliers illuminate the building from within, transforming it into a radiant lantern.

The key to this captivating effect lies in the meticulous design of the chandeliers. Each comprises a series of LED bars arranged in a V-shape, with every individual LED meticulously calibrated to evenly illuminate the stone and reach the floor. This precision ensures a flawless, mesmerizing glow.

Sustainability was also a priority. The chosen lighting scheme minimizes energy consumption by utilizing consolidated fixture clusters and harnessing direct spill light for additional illumination. This innovative approach contributes to the building’s target of LEED Silver certification.

These award-winning projects show us that, by creatively manipulating light and shadow, designers can enhance architectural features, create mood and atmosphere, and even contribute to sustainability goals. As we celebrate the International Day of Light, let these remarkable projects inspire us to harness the full potential of light in shaping our world.