Month: October 2024

Tamlite Lighting, one of the UK’s largest independent lighting manufacturers, is urging the construction industry to prioritise emergency lighting as a vital component of building safety.

Tamlite’s call to action follows the publication of the 1,700-page Grenfell Inquiry report, which exposed a series of systemic failures across government and the construction industry, leading to the tragic Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017.

The report outlines 58 recommendations, including the creation of a new construction regulator responsible for overseeing all industry functions as part of a broader industry reform.

Tamlite emphasises that this industry shake-up must place sufficient importance on emergency lighting as a critical factor in ensuring building safety.

John Allden, Managing Director of Tamlite Lighting, explains: “Emergency lighting is designed to activate automatically in the event of a power failure and plays an essential role in aiding safe evacuations during a fire. Maintaining the highest standards in the design, installation, and upkeep of these systems is paramount. This involves regular checks on fixtures, fittings, and batteries to ensure that emergency lighting functions as intended during crucial moments.”

The evolving regulatory landscape in the wake of recent incidents was a key theme at the Industry Committee for Emergency Lighting (ICEL)’s Emergency Lighting Conference 2024 last month. John Allden comments:

“The UK Government has introduced more stringent building regulations through the secondary legislation of the Building Safety Act in 2022. However, recent high-profile fires in London, including one in a residential block in Dagenham and another at the iconic Somerset House, reminds us that buildings of all types remain at a risk of fire.

“The Grenfell report has made it abundantly clear that everyone involved in construction is responsible for keeping people safe. While emergency lighting is already subject to rigorous standards, there is an ongoing need for the industry to evolve these standards and enhance fire safety across all building types, potentially saving lives.

“This drive for continuous innovation in the lighting sector was strongly supported at the recent ICEL conference, which brought together industry leaders committed to improving building safety standards.”

In August 2024, the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) and ICEL launched an enhanced ICEL Product Certification Scheme as part of their ongoing commitment to excellence in emergency lighting. The updated scheme represents a crucial shift from an endorsed model to a certified one, offering even greater assurance of quality and safety in emergency lighting products.

ICEL also launched Phase 2 of its Competency Recognition Scheme in September, providing more professionals with the opportunity to have their emergency lighting skills validated and recognised.

Backed by a framework that spans six critical domains—Testing and Maintenance, Product Design Management, Specification, Installation, Sales and Distribution, and Scheme Design—the ICEL scheme is designed to recognise the professional skills, knowledge, experience, and behaviours required to successfully design, install, and maintain emergency lighting systems.

John Allden adds: “The LIA and ICEL are working tirelessly, in partnership with industry, to drive forward standards in emergency lighting, guided by a shared mission to keep people safe.”

Emergency Lighting Standards in the UK

In the UK, emergency lighting systems must comply with strict standards, including BS 5266, which provides detailed guidance on design, installation, and maintenance.

According to the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, the duty to comply with these standards falls on the ‘responsible person’ within an establishment. This ensures that all emergency lighting systems are tested regularly, with intervals specified by the regulations to maintain their effectiveness.

It is a legal requirement under these regulations and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, that all business premises – including offices, factories, pubs and clubs, schools, hospitals and entertainment venues – are equipped with emergency escape lighting. These legal requirements also apply to almost all residential buildings and structures, except for individual private homes, including houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), blocks of flats and maisonettes.

UK, September 2024 – Serpentine Pavilion silver sponsors Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting, were thrilled to host an exclusive and prestigious event at the Serpentine Pavilion on Thursday, 12th September 2024. This unique evening was a rare opportunity for industry professionals to celebrate the Pavilion’s 2024 design, created by the renowned Korean architect Minsuk Cho of Mass Studies.

On Thursday, 12th September 2024, Thorn and Zumtobel hosted a special event at the Serpentine Pavilion, inviting a select group of architects, lighting designers, interior designers, consulting engineers, and end users to experience the space first-hand. The evening offered a unique opportunity to engage with the Pavilion’s architect, Minsuk Cho of Mass Studies, who shared his insights on the design and explored the role lighting played in the finished effect.

The evening’s agenda included speeches from key figures:

• Welcome by Paul Kilburn, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting, and Alfred Felder, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO at Zumtobel Group
• Lighting Designer: Arianna Foltran of Aecom
• Pavilion Curator: Alexa Chow
• Main Headline Speaker: Minsuk Cho, Architect of the 2024 Serpentine Pavilion

At the event, Paul Kilburn expressed, “We are honoured to have been involved in such an extraordinary project for the fifth time. Working alongside Minsuk Cho and Mass Studies, Aecom, and the Serpentine Pavilion team has been a true privilege, and we are proud to see our lighting solutions play a role in enhancing this year’s Pavilion.

The event, attended by 300 guests, was a celebration of the successful synergy between architecture and lighting. The tailored lighting solutions provided by Thorn played a crucial role in enhancing the Pavilion’s design, creating a seamless balance between functionality and artistic expression.

As the sun set over Kensington Gardens, the Pavilion was transformed into a visually striking landmark. The innovative lighting solutions from Thorn, including Caelon, Mystrid Flex, and Axyl Greet Bollards, illuminated the Pavilion, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow. The lighting not only complemented the architectural forms but also guided visitors through the structure, highlighting key design features and creating a memorable visual experience.

In addition, Zumtobel Group’s charity partner, Cancer Research UK, were in attendance to support their ongoing efforts into cancer research, adding a charitable dimension to the evening.

Karin Zumtobel, Chairperson of the Board Zumtobel Group AG, commented, “The event was a brilliant convergence of architecture and light, and it was a privilege to collaborate with such visionary partners. Our lighting solutions have truly brought Minsuk Cho’s design to life, particularly as the Pavilion transforms after dusk.

Thorn and Zumtobel are thrilled to continue their long-standing relationship with the Serpentine Pavilion and look forward to future collaborations that push the boundaries of architecture, design, and lighting.

For more information about the event and Thorn and Zumtobel’s innovative solutions, please visit www.thornlighting.co.uk and z.lighting/en/zumtobel.

London Neon a leading provider of bespoke neon signage and lighting solutions, is excited to announce new collaborations with several prominent brands, marking a significant milestone in the company’s expansion.

Over the past year, London Neon has experienced a substantial increase in demand for its unique and high-quality neon products. Specialising in custom designs that blend artistry with cutting-edge technology, the company has attracted attention from major players in industries such as retail, hospitality, and entertainment.

“We are thrilled to partner with such esteemed brands,” said a spokesperson for London Neon. “These collaborations reflect our dedication to delivering exceptional products and our ability to meet the diverse needs of clients on a larger scale. We look forward to illuminating more spaces and bringing creative visions to life.”
The new partnerships will see London Neon providing bespoke neon installations for flagship stores, exclusive events, and marketing campaigns. These projects aim to enhance brand experiences by adding a vibrant and contemporary aesthetic that resonates with audiences.

London Neon’s success is attributed to its team of skilled artisans and designers who work closely with clients to create tailor-made solutions. The company’s state-of-the-art workshop in London is equipped with the latest technology, enabling efficient production without compromising on quality.

In addition to expanding its client portfolio, London Neon is investing in sustainable practices. The company is exploring eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting options to reduce its environmental footprint.

“Sustainability is at the heart of our innovation,” the spokesperson added. “As we grow, we are committed to implementing practices that benefit our clients and contribute positively to the environment.”

Custom curved pendants creatively spotlight the central staircase, setting the scene while creating a warm and welcoming glow for this modern, open-plan office.

Creating a sustainable design for Henry Boot’s Head Office in Sheffield has been achieved using intelligent LED lighting, which also beautifully illuminates the unique features of this modern workplace environment.

The office is set over three floors with a flexible mix of open-plan desks, collaborative meeting spaces and social areas, connected by a central oak laminate architectural staircase. These striking stairs are spotted by Light Forms’ bespoke curved Moonband 40 profile, with Nova62 spots fixed directly to the underside to cast each step in a stunning glow.

The interior design by Incognito has been accentuated through thoughtful lighting, with high specification finishes and fixtures throughout. The lighting brings out the richness of the colour palette, which contrasts bold blues and purples with neutral tones to create a welcoming and open space that catches the light seamlessly.

The project won the Design Excellence Award at the Insider Media Sheffield Property Awards for its innovative design and its impact in supporting the company to reduce its carbon footprint. The office is expected to deliver a carbon emission reduction of 79% compared to the former office, supported by intelligent LED lighting and natural light flooding through the windows.

At a glance

Interior Design: Incognito, Manchester

Main Contractor: ADT Workplace

Electrical Contractor: Premier Electrical, Bury

Lighting Manufacturer: Light Forms

Photography: Mike Dinsdale – Midi Photography

Light Forms products featured in this project

Moonband 40 Curved profile with Nova62 Spots attached

Powergear DALI Track with Nova62 Track Spots attached

A promotion for a Mackwell team member is demonstrating how the company lives up to its ‘Investing in People’ approach.

Mohammed (Mo) Ali has been promoted to Sales Representative, having progressed from a Customer Services Representative Apprenticeship.

In his new role, Mo will be responsible for driving company revenue by identifying, developing, and maintaining customer relationships. He will be able to draw on the strong communication and customer service skills that he developed in his previous role. Furthermore, his solid understanding of Mackwell’s products and services will set him in good stead.

Mo’s career development journey at Mackwell is a strong example of how the company develops their talent and gives individuals ownership over their roles. Mo was involved in the decision to move into sales, as it seemed a natural fit for him following the successful completion of his apprenticeship, in which he gained commendations for excellent customer service and product knowledge.

Mackwell is Mo’s first role within the lighting sector. He quickly saw the opportunity to explore something new and develop in an industry he hadn’t experienced before.

Mo stated: “As I started learning more, I found myself really intrigued by how much impact lighting has, not just on spaces but on people’s everyday lives and how often I have come across emergency lighting going about my day to day.”

Mackwell is extremely proud of its commitment to developing its people, believing they are the company’s most valued commodity. The organisation is always looking for ways to improve and have a culture that encourages innovation.

David Lang-Smith, Sales & Marketing Director UK & Europe for Mackwell said: “We truly invest in our people, which is why we have such a highly skilled workforce and have remained experts in our field for over 40 years. This is hugely beneficial to the company, our clients and mostly our employees, who are encouraged to develop, grow and self-actualise. Mo is a shining example of our approach and we are delighted to see him thriving in his new role.”

Speaking about his role, Mo added: “I see myself making an impact by focusing on building strong, long-lasting relationships with customers. I believe that understanding what customers really need and delivering tailored solutions is key to standing out.

“By staying adaptable and open to new sales techniques and technologies, I can bring fresh ideas to the table that help processes and make things more efficient. I’m also passionate about helping the business grow by finding new opportunities.”

Managed Lighting Supplier Ember Lighting highlights a number of successes and celebrations from the beginning of 2024 to date.

Not only has Ember Lighting increased its client base and seen rapid levels of growth, but the team has expanded with the addition of a new operations team member. And completing the roundup of achievements, some of Ember’s projects have scooped prestigious industry awards.

As a managed lighting supplier, Ember takes charge of a project from start to finish, ensuring a seamless transformation. Designed to solve common problems associated with traditional suppliers, Ember provides a single and consistent point of contact throughout the project. This eliminates miscommunication and confusion from multiple contractors and therefore removes the risk of wasted resources and investments.

This simplified and streamlined approach to lighting projects – encompassing supply, project management and technical support before and during installation – is becoming increasingly popular amongst interior designers, architects and contractors. This has been demonstrated in Ember’s growth and increase in client base, particularly across these sectors.

Ember Lighting are able to transform a marked-up lighting plan into a fully costed, planned and timetabled project. By involving Ember at the design stage, the process can be fully mapped out and managed from start to finish most effectively and efficiently.

With a new operations team member Isabella on board, Ember Lighting has expanded its team skillset to offer interior designers, architects and contractors greater resources and expertise.

Isabella joins the team at an exciting time, including the news that multiple Ember Lighting projects have won respected industry accolades. The Clubrooms Lounge at Birmingham Airport, part of the No1 Lounges network, won Best Luxury Airport Lounge UK 2024 at the International Business Magazine Awards 2024.

Adding to this, the No1 Lounge at Heathrow T3 won Best Premium Airport Lounge UK 2024.

Ember Lighting worked alongside Resident Architecture to provide a managed supply of lighting for these executive airport lounges. The team ensured that the challenges of the project were faced head-on and in a timely manner. Despite encountering challenges such as security protocols, precise deliveries, and stringent timelines, Ember successfully met all of its commitments right on schedule.

This gave the client confidence they could open the doors on time and that the space would provide an amazing – and now award-winning – atmosphere for all guests.

Gresh Braglewicz, Director at Ember Lighting said: “2024 has seen a lot of success for Ember Lighting, and with another six months to go, we’re confident this could be our best year yet. Not only have we grown our market base and our client list, but we’ve expanded our team with Isabella who will be invaluable to clients across the whole lighting project from design to delivery.

“Adding to these achievements, seeing the No1 Lounges at Birmingham and Heathrow win high-profile awards is a big boost for us. We’re very proud of our work on these projects and know the crucial role the lighting of these lounges plays in creating this award-winning welcome and ambience.”

Thorn Lighting, the leading lighting and connected solutions provider, has
launched City of Thorn, an innovative digital tool that allows lighting
designers, installers and building managers to easily find the correct interior
and exterior lighting and control solutions for their project.

City of Thorn is a first-of-its-kind interactive 3D city. Customers can explore lighting
solutions on desktop or mobile by clicking through various parts of the 3D model. It
is available in English, German, French, Spanish and Italian.

Offering a comprehensive overview of Thorn Lighting’s product portfolio, City of
Thorn is divided into six areas: Education, Industry, Retail, Sports, Urban &
Architectural and Road & Street. Selecting one of these will allow the user to see
multiple interior and exterior lighting applications within that sector and view key
product information and specifications.

First showcased earlier this year at Light & Building 2024, City of Thorn has been
developed to make it as easy as possible for customers to find the products and
information they need and has been designed to be universal. Lighting designers
and architects can use it as a resource to find the solutions that will best suit a new
scheme, while installers can use it on site when engaging with a client about a
project, allowing them to quickly and easily highlight relevant products. City of Thorn
is also intended as a simple to use tool for facilities managers and building owners,
helping them to understand the options available in a clear and visual way.

Saurabh Pandhi, VP Thorn Lighting at Zumtobel Group said: “We continually strive
to offer the best service and support we can to our customers to enable them to
succeed in what they do. City of Thorn is the latest result of this commitment and
demonstrates our ability to offer the best-in-class lighting solutions and fully meet
the needs of application from services through to connectivity. The aim of City of

Thorn is to fundamentally improve how customers can engage with us as a partner
to ensure a better, more intuitive experience for themselves and their customers.”

Tridonic is asserting its commitment to sustainability by sharing its knowledge and best practice at two key industry events, this October.

The smart lighting solutions provider distinguished and proven track record with the strides it has made to increase access to more sustainable hardware for the industry and its continued work to innovate in order to support a Net Zero future will be showcased at Networking Zero and Circular Lighting Live.

Tridonic’s Strategic Solutions Manager, Simon Blazey(left), will be taking to the stage at the Networking Zero event at Riverbank House, London, EC4R 3TN 3 October, where he will be discussing the lighting controls and solutions innovations that are driving more sustainable systems for buildings, as well as how lighting controls can work in harmony with other systems to create a truly integrated and efficient environment.

A team of representatives will also be attending the upcoming Circular Lighting Live event on Wednesday 9 October, with a stand that showcases some of Tridonic’s innovations and solutions that are helping OEMs and end users to achieve carbon reductions and increased lifetime value.

A key focus on the Tridonic stand will be on its lithium battery technology and supporting customers through the switchover from Nicad, as the technology is phased out in Europe in a few months’ time.

Tridonic’s own Martin Thompson (right) will also take to the stage at the event to share more details about how Tridonic’s entire business operation is geared towards sustainability and the drive towards Net Zero.

Richard Strode , managing director of Tridonic UK, said: “Our teams are out in the field to talk to customers, industry peers and fellow experts about how Tridonic is taking its role in a Net Zero future to the very heart of our operations.

“Everything we do is geared towards providing our customers and end users with smarter and more sustainable solutions and our drive to innovate and create value in this vital area has provided us with some hard-won lessons that through our exhibition stand and expert talks, we are ready to share.”

CU Phosco, the largest family-owned UK designer and manufacturer of outdoor lighting equipment, is proud to announce the launch of the FL830, a versatile floodlight designed to meet the demanding lighting requirements of airports, ports, car parks, highway conflict areas, and bridges. This revolutionary product, building on the success of the renowned FL820, delivers exceptional illuminance and reduced glare in a smaller, more adaptable package, ensuring it is the ideal lighting solution for a wide range of applications.

Designed for functionality and ease of use, the FL830’s smaller body, designed specifically for airport lighting applications combines sleek, functional aesthetics with superior performance. Its future-proof and thermally optimised design can be easily upgraded onsite, ensuring long-term service life and efficiency.

The FL830 boasts an impressive luminaire efficacy of up to 155 lumens per watt, providing a wide range of optics and lumen packages to tailor lighting solutions to specific needs. Advanced thermal management ensures the longevity of both LEDs and drivers, while its lightweight, low windage construction enhances durability and simplifies installation.

Floodlighting for the cost-conscious

The FL830 is engineered to maximise savings on energy and maintenance costs, making it a cost-effective choice for specifiers. Its contractor-friendly design ensures straightforward installation and maintenance, reducing downtime and associated costs.

Floodlighting for the environment

Additionally, the FL830 features a full cut-off cowl to minimise upward light and light pollution, supporting environmentally friendly lighting practices. With intelligent lighting control options, the FL830 offers flexible, smart lighting management tailored to various applications. Moreover, the FL830 is over 90% recyclable, aligning with sustainability goals and reducing environmental impact.

“The FL830 is one of the results of our commitment to innovation and excellence in lighting technology,” said Paul Carter at CU Phosco. “We’ve taken the proven performance of the FL820 and created a more compact, versatile floodlight that not only meets but exceeds the stringent requirements of modern airport lighting. The FL830 combines cutting-edge LED technology with a design that simplifies installation and maintenance, offering our customers an efficient, future-proof solution.”
With its state-of-the-art design and advanced features, the FL830 sets a new benchmark in floodlighting, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. Whether for illuminating airport aprons or enhancing visibility in car parks and ports, the FL830 is engineered to deliver outstanding results.
For more information about the FL830 and to discuss how it can benefit your specific lighting needs, please visit cuphosco.com or contact Hello@cuphosco.com.