Header: Nikolai Benner
Jahnplatz, Bielefeld’s central square and transportation hub, has undergone a remarkable transformation as part of the city’s commitment to climate-friendly mobility. The redesign prioritizes sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics, with a standout feature—its innovative lighting design.
A unique lighting concept
At the heart of the new Jahnplatz lighting concept are 25 distinctive luminaires known as “Night Suns.” Suspended by an intricate cable system, these lights hover above the square, creating a striking visual effect while ensuring well-balanced illumination. Each “Night Sun” is crafted with a multi-layered fiberglass shell that interacts with natural light during the day, while at night, it emits carefully distributed artificial light. The shells are supported by metal structures that house various light sources, offering a combination of symmetrical and asymmetrical distributions to cater to different areas of the square.
Dynamic and adaptive illumination
One of the most exciting aspects of the lighting design is its adaptability. The “Night Suns” are equipped with RGBW lighting, allowing them to change colors for special occasions such as Bielefeld’s Night Views, the Christmas Market, and the Leineweber Festival. This feature transforms the square into a vibrant public space, enhancing its atmosphere and reinforcing its social and cultural hub role.
The design incorporates a mix of direct, indirect, and uniform lighting to create a dynamic and readable structure. The varied heights, intensities, and light distributions ensure optimal illumination while maintaining a visually engaging nighttime scene. The floating rings of light also serve a functional purpose by guiding movement and orientation between the old and new parts of the city.
Sustainability and efficiency
Beyond aesthetics, the lighting concept aligns with the city’s sustainability goals. The fiberglass shells are durable and long-lasting, reducing material waste and promoting resource efficiency. The modular metal structures allow for easy maintenance and repair, contributing to a circular economy approach. Additionally, the precise placement of luminaires minimizes unnecessary light pollution and enhances energy efficiency, ensuring that light is only used where it is needed most.
Recognized excellence
The innovative lighting design at Jahnplatz has not gone unnoticed. It was awarded the prestigious LIT Lighting Design Award in the Street Lighting Design category, recognizing its outstanding contribution to urban lighting and sustainability. Designed by ENVUE HOMBURG LICHT GMBH, with lead designers Sascha Homburg, Urs Schreiner, and Edgar Hildebrand, the project showcases how lighting can redefine a public space while supporting environmental goals.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: ENVUE HOMBURG LICHT GMBH
Lead Designers: Sascha Homburg, Urs Schreiner, Edgar Hildebrand
Architecture Company: Wannenmacher + Möller
Client: City of Bielefeld
Photo Credits: Nikolai Benner
Landscape Architect: Kortemeier Brokmann Landschaftsarchitekten
Completion Date: 2023
Project Location: Bielefeld
