Header: Gavriil Papadiotis
In the heart of Lefkada, Greece, a modern aparthotel called Townhouse Lefkada presents a unique face to the city. During the day, its structure is defined by a series of vertical fins that provide shade and privacy. But at night, thanks to a specific and detailed lighting plan by Idea Design, this architectural feature transforms into a gentle, glowing curtain of light, giving the building a distinct identity.
Crafting a nighttime identity
The main goal for the building’s exterior was to create a discreet and elegant presence after dark. Instead of flooding the building with powerful lights, the design focuses on the architectural fins that cover the three main sides. Lighting designer Vasiliki Malakasi worked with architect Ioanna Zavitsanou to place lighting elements directly within the building’s structure. This approach makes the light appear as if it is a natural part of the architecture itself. Longer fins are illuminated with narrow beam spotlights, while shorter fins are lit from below with linear uplights, creating a varied and dynamic visual texture across the facade.
Precision and privacy
Because Townhouse Lefkada is in a residential area and serves as accommodation, controlling the light was extremely important. The design team took special measures to prevent glare that could disturb guests or neighbors. Every beam of light is carefully directed. The spotlights aimed at the longer fins are fitted with honeycomb filters, which act like a grid to keep the light focused. For the linear uplights, integrated vertical louvers do a similar job, stopping light from spilling sideways. This precision ensures light only goes where it’s needed, which also helps to reduce light pollution and skyglow. Smart controls allow the building’s management to dim the entire system late at night, further softening its look in the quiet hours.
An ultra-low power consumption
The lighting design for Townhouse Lefkada demonstrates that a significant visual effect can be achieved with minimal energy consumption. By integrating the lights into the architecture, the quantity of fixtures needed was minimal. The total power consumption for the building’s entire three-story facade is just 312 watts. To put that in perspective, the total lit area is about 336 square meters, meaning the energy use is less than 1 W/m2. This incredibly low number shows how a “less is more” approach, when applied with care, can produce a visually rich result while remaining highly energy-efficient.
A welcoming glow from the inside out
The experience at street level is designed to be open and inviting. Most of the light here comes from inside the building, pouring out through the ground-floor windows. Selective exterior lighting is used to highlight key features, such as trees, plants, and custom illuminated signage. As visitors approach the glazed entrance, they see layers of interior light that create a sense of depth and dimension. Light on the reception desk, on the art wall, and from a pendant art feature in the building’s central atrium all work together to create a welcoming atmosphere. This reduces the need for bright, conventional entrance lighting.
The project’s innovative and responsible approach to illumination did not go unnoticed. For its clever design and exceptional energy efficiency, the lighting scheme for Townhouse Lefkada was honored with a LIT Lighting Design Award for Low Carbon Lighting.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: Idea Design
Lead Designers: Vasiliki Malakasi
Architecture Company: Ioanna Zavitsanou
Client: Private
Photo Credits: Gavriil Papadiotis, GavriiLux
Completion Date: June 2022
Project Location: Lefkada, Greece
