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industry updates

Relighting The National Maritime Museum: Conservation, Inclusion & Storytelling

The National Maritime Museum, renowned for its extensive maritime collections, sought an LED relight in key galleries and spaces to better serve its diverse audience and enhance the storytelling of its historical artefacts. The Museum has a long-standing relationship with ERCO, which began with the relighting of Cutty Sark in 2012. Continuing this partnership, ERCO delivered a future-proof lighting solution that emphasises inclusivity, conservation, and engagement with history. The lighting project incorporates ERCO’s latest technology, including Optec and Iku luminaires, paired with the Casambi lighting control system for optimal flexibility.

ERCO’s lighting solutions have transformed the National Maritime Museum into a space where history, storytelling, and inclusivity come together, allowing visitors of all ages and backgrounds to engage with the Museum in unique and meaningful ways.

Illuminating Maritime History

The Baltic Glass

The showcase of this relight project is the evocative stained glass panels of the Baltic Glass. The members of the Baltic Exchange, an international maritime commerce organisation, who lost their lives during the First World War. Designed by artist John Dudley Forsyth and unveiled in 1922, the panels feature classical figures celebrating both the fallen and civic ideals such as truth and justice. Originally part of a larger installation in the Baltic Exchange’s London headquarters, the artwork was severely damaged in 1992 by a terrorist bomb. Following more than a decade of meticulous restoration, the surviving panels were donated to the Museum in 2005.

The centrepiece, a striking half-dome, depicts the winged figure of Victory with symbolic scenes of peace and war, while the outer windows list key World War I battles. Opposite the dome, vertical panels represent the virtues of Truth, Hope, Justice, Fortitude, and Faith, drawing on themes from classical and Renaissance art. This restored memorial, now located next to the Sea Things gallery, serves as a poignant tribute to both the history of war and the enduring ideals of humanity.

Originally lit with ERCO Halogen Spotlights, The Baltic Glass Gallery, required a new sophisticated lighting solution to highlight fine details while maintaining a sense of openness. The new Optec system, featuring spotlights and wide floods for track, optimised with anti-glare technology, was selected for this space. The anti-glare feature ensures that the delicate glass displays are illuminated without any distraction from reflections or harsh shadows. The controlled lighting enhances the intricacy and texture of each piece, bringing these fragile artefacts to life without compromising their conservation needs.

“ERCO’s precision lighting allows us to highlight the tiniest details of our glass artefacts while ensuring that we protect them for future generations. After working at the museum for many years, I have discovered details I previously couldn’t see. The glass has truly been brought to life” says Kevin Brennan, Senior Mechanical and Electrical Manager, at the National Maritime Museum.

Atlantic Worlds Gallery

In the Atlantic Worlds Gallery, storytelling is paramount. ERCO’s Optec luminaires were used to create a dynamic lighting environment that immerses visitors in the rich history of transatlantic exploration and trade. Optec spotlights were used to create focal points on critical artefacts, while the flexible track system allows the Museum to easily reconfigure the lighting for future exhibits. The lighting in this space is carefully controlled, focusing beams on specific displays to capture attention while leaving other areas softly lit to create a dynamic flow throughout the gallery.

A sophisticated lighting design guides visitors on a visual journey through the gallery, reinforcing key themes of navigation and discovery. The lighting control system enables the Museum to fine-tune the light levels, ensuring each display is highlighted appropriately without overwhelming the visitor’s experience.

Working closely with the conservation team, a challenge in the Museum is to balance conservation with inclusive design and visibility. Light offers both form and function, leading visitors through the history of the seven seas, to providing a safe and inclusive environment for those with visual impairments, disabilities, child sensory needs or neurodivergent needs as well as conserving sensitive historical artefacts. Every detail of the exhibit and space has to be carefully curated to respond to any request at the touch of a button. Speaking with Maria Bastidas-Spence, former Preventive Conservator and IPM Coordinator, ‘‘Each exhibit is meticulously curated, with our operations teams, curators and of course, the conservation team, everyone has a role to play and a brief to fulfil. From display cases to the wider lighting, the luminaires must ensure optimal lux levels and heat restrictions. This conserves colour pigments, natural materials and fabrics.’’

Implementing a lighting system which adapts as the galleries evolve was crucial. ERCO’s track system provides flexibility and maintenance reduction. The space interchanges from one side to the other, with the main exhibition space, leading into a reading area for children and adults, to reflect on the history. This beautifully articulates the adaptability and the ability of light and showcases the future of design.

“We needed lighting that could adapt as our exhibits change,” Kevin commented. “ERCO’s modular system ensures that we can evolve our displays without having to start from scratch every time.”

All Hands Gallery – Children’s Sensory Area

Inclusive design was a key element in the lighting of the All Hands Gallery, a space tailored for children, including those with sensory sensitivities. ERCO created a playful yet calming environment through soft, diffused lighting that encourages interaction without overwhelming young visitors. Here, the lighting shifts in intensity and warmth, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. The dimmable feature allows the lighting to be adjusted according to the needs of different groups, making it a versatile space for all children, using Jilly downlights for track.

‘’Inclusive design was a priority, and our ERCO solutions support the Museum in catering to children of all abilities. The sensory space is both stimulating and comforting, which is exactly what was hoped for.’’, Daniel LeMajic, Sales Director, ERCO Lighting UK & Ireland.

The Auditorium

The Museum’s auditorium needed versatile lighting capable of transforming the atmosphere based on the event type, from lectures to film screenings. ERCO installed Iku downlights featuring tuneable white technology, allowing the Museum to change the colour temperature depending on the use of the space. For educational presentations, cooler, brighter light is used to maintain clarity and focus, while warmer lighting is introduced for more relaxed events, such as movie screenings or evening lectures.

The lighting control system is integrated with Casambi, enabling the Museum team to easily adjust the lighting levels and colour temperature through mobile devices or preset scenes. Alex Smith, former M&E Manager, at the National Maritime Museum, liaised with museum stakeholders in setting up preset lighting scenes to curate an adaptable and future-proof space.

“ERCO’s tuneable white technology gives us the flexibility to adapt the auditorium lighting for any type of event. Whether it’s a bright, crisp atmosphere for a presentation or a soft, ambient glow for a film screening, we can make the change in seconds,” said Kevin, highlighting the efficiency of the system.

Forgotten Fighters Gallery

In the Forgotten Fighters Gallery, which tells the stories of naval conflicts often overlooked, lighting was used to evoke a sense of solemnity and reflection. ERCO employed Optec Oval Flood luminaires, to create a soft, light drawing attention to the key areas without overpowering the sensitive nature of the subject matter. The lighting control system allows the Museum to dim the lighting during special remembrance events, adding to the emotional atmosphere.

The lighting’s uniformity across the gallery creates a calm, respectful atmosphere that supports the sensitive nature of the subject matter.

Conservation and Lighting Control

Conservation was a top priority for the Museum’s team. Working closely with ERCO, they implemented strict controls on lux levels to protect the artefacts, many of which are highly sensitive to light exposure. The Casambi control system allows for precise dimming and the creation of tailored lighting scenes, ensuring that artefacts are safeguarded while still being beautifully illuminated.

“With ERCO’s help, we can control the lighting down to the smallest detail, which is crucial for the conservation of our most delicate artefacts,” explained the Museum’s conservation specialist.

The tuneable white technology in various galleries, such as the Forgotten Fighters Gallery and the Auditorium, allows for adjustments to colour temperature and intensity, depending on the time of day, exhibition requirements, or audience needs. This provides both flexibility and energy efficiency, as the museum can adjust the lighting to match visitor traffic or event schedules.

Bringing History to Life

The lighting design in the National Maritime Museum not only supports conservation efforts but also plays a vital role in bringing history to life. From the interactive children’s galleries to the solemn remembrance spaces, ERCO’s lighting creates an engaging atmosphere that enhances the visitor experience. Carefully considered lighting design emphasises the importance of storytelling, guiding visitors through the Museum in a way that feels intuitive and enriching.

“Lighting is not just about visibility. It’s about creating an atmosphere that draws people into the story,” said Kevin, “ERCO’s expertise has allowed us to craft spaces where history truly comes alive.”

Conclusion: A Future-Proof Partnership

The National Maritime Museum’s partnership with ERCO continues to be a successful collaboration, grounded in shared values of quality, inclusivity, flexibility, and sustainability. ERCO’s future-proof solutions ensure that the Museum’s lighting can evolve with new exhibitions and technological advancements while maintaining the highest standards of conservation and inclusivity.

“We chose ERCO because of their unwavering support and forward-thinking designs. Their commitment to helping us achieve our vision has been instrumental in creating a museum experience that speaks to all visitors,” concluded Kevin.

This relighting project highlights the critical role that lighting plays in museum design—not only for visibility but also for enhancing the emotional, educational, and conservation aspects of the museum experience. ERCO’s innovative solutions continue to support the National Maritime Museum in creating an engaging, inclusive, and future-ready space for all who visit.

Museums are a vital hub for people and communities, from an area of play for young children, a place of remembrance and reflection for the elderly to a safe space for all. Light has the ability to create inclusive spaces.

Project Credits:

Client: National Maritime Museum

Lighting Manufacturer: ERCO Lighting UK & Ireland

Lighting Controls: Casambi

Photographer: James Newton

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industry updates

Thorn & Zumtobel Celebrates Architectural Innovation With Minsuk Cho at Serpentine Pavilion 2024

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.

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Commercial Directory WEEE Compliance & Recycling

Recolight

Recolight provides WEEE compliance & recycling for all WEEE lighting.

We were established by the UK lighting industry in 2005 primarily for the purpose of operating a Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Compliance Scheme on behalf of lamp producers in the UK.

Our operating model is based upon one developed by the European Lamp Companies Federation (ELC) – a European Trade Association for lamp manufacturers – although the implementation is different in each country, reflecting the different national implementations of the WEEE Directive EC2002/94.

The WEEE Regulations require producers of EEE and their compliance schemes to finance and put systems in place for the treatment – including recycling – of separately collected WEEE.

We received scheme operator approval on 21 February 2007 and went live operationally on 2 July 2007.

Through us, the lighting industry alone has been responsible for collecting and recycling more items of WEEE than any other sector.

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Architectural Cruise Ship / Marine Directory Hospitality and Leisure LED Marine

Timage

Giorgio Lanza, the founder of Timage, has made efficiency the ethos of the company. With high standards forming the heart of the business, Timage supplies a large and diverse range of boat builders and chandlers throughout the UK and worldwide. Timage has also expanded into the construction, architectural and design industries where marine grade components have become very desirable. The company is now a key supply partner to high end projects in the residential, hotel and restaurant sectors.

Quality and beautiful design are at the heart of every product that Timage sells. Our product range has been carefully selected over the years from a hand-picked group of Italian suppliers who share our same values and attention to detail.

With knowledge that has been passed down through the generations our team is able to identify the need for a better product and envisage and source the solution.

“We are not just a catalogue, we have the application and development experience to help our clients move ahead.”

The company has always been renowned for the quality of its brass and chromium plated fittings and lighting. Today, We can supply deck and bathroom fittings, door and cupboard fittings, door furniture and a large range of low voltage LED lighting. We are also the sole UK importers and/or distributors for global brands such as Besenzoni, Marco Marine, Rockford Fosgate Marine audio and many more.   

Based in Essex, Timage can offer a fast and efficient service as it keeps a substantial stock holding. Knowledgeable and experienced staff can answer any technical questions that you may have. Timage are regular exhibitors at the London ExCeL and Southampton boat shows as well as other design shows throughout the year.

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Architectural Bulk Head Commercial Directory Display Downlights Emergency Exterior Lamps LED Lighting Control

Feilo Sylvania

Formed in January 2016, Feilo Sylvania is 80% owned by Shanghai Feilo Acoustics Co., Ltd, which is principally engaged in the manufacture and distribution of lighting equipment. Headquartered in Shanghai,Shanghai Feilo Acoustics Co Ltd was founded in 1984 and is China’s first joint-stock company (SH 600651). The company reorganised its M&A on a large scale in 2014 and became a joint enterprise comprising companies including Shanghai Yaming Lighting Co Ltd, Beijing Shen’an Group as well as Shanghai Sunlight Enterprise Co Ltd. With the acquisition of Havells Sylvania, Feilo has gained manufacturing bases, logistics centres, R&D technology centres around the world, as well as market access in 48 countries.

Feilo Sylvania is a leading, full-spectrum provider of professional and architectural lighting solutions. Built on over a century of expertise in lamps and luminaires, Feilo Sylvania supplies internationally state-of-the art products and systems to the public, commercial and private sectors. Feilo Sylvania strives to deliver the finest products, service and consulting possible. All over the world, people rely on group business divisions: Concord, Lumiance and Sylvania, for top quality, energy-efficient solutions to suit their individual lighting needs.

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Commercial Directory Emergency LED Lighting Control Street Lighting

Fulham Lighting

Fulham is a global leader in new lighting technology, including LED drivers, modules & retrofit kits, LED emergency lighting solutions, exit and emergency lighting, control systems, and fluorescent ballasts. Fulham is dedicated to intelligent, sustainable lighting solutions that give our users the power to control their light. Fulham’s revered product quality and world-class customer responsiveness make us the preferred, trusted partner to over 3000 lighting manufacturers and distributors worldwide. From our European Design Centre in Alkmaar, Netherlands, and our Los Angeles headquarters, USA, our teams of product managers and engineers work with OEMs and end users to conceive new products, then our global network of engineering experts develops and manufactures the finished products. The result: reliable, cutting edge lighting solutions that bring European and Global innovation to a global market.

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Architectural Directory Hospitality and Leisure LED Retail

Reggiani

Established in 1957, Reggiani is now an International benchmark in the lighting industry, a community of lighting experts that provides its customers with cutting-edge technological solutions with an open, collaborative and problem solving approach.

The constant development of innovative products and the expertise gained in over 60 years of activity in the field has outlined an increasingly open exchange with the world of lighting designers and architects, with whom Reggiani has established a relationship funded on sharing ideas and best practices and to whom Reggiani provides solutions and support to meet any creative requirement.

A family run business means an eye for detail, exceptional service levels and a strong personal contact. The client’s satisfaction is always the first goal.

Reggiani has a widespread distribution in 80 Countries worldwide and its offices in Italy, USA, UK, China, France and Russia cover an area of 110,000 m2, including areas devoted to production, offices, showrooms and warehouses.

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Commercial Directory Display LED

Selectronic

Our solutions are designed to bring concepts into real life.Selectronic specialises in the design, development and consistent supply of optoelectronics – primarily electronic display products. We do not just focus on the technology though. We pride ourselves on offering a human touch, bringing together our customer requirements with the very best innovation to achieve the optimal product, whether it be key dashboard display for a new high end vehicle or the most basic LED on a consumable device. We look to combine excellent customer service and key expertise both within Selectronic, and within our strategic suppliers, to secure the best final product.

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Commercial Directory Downlights Energy Saving Hospitality and Leisure LED Low Energy Retail Street Lighting

Forge Europa

Forge designs, develops and manufactures cutting edge LED solutions with an emphasis on quality and delivering value.

For 25 years we’ve manufactured LED solutions focussed on innovation, quality and providing superior service. Our knowledge and expertise allows us to tackle diverse industry applications and deliver results.

We work with our customer’s to manufacture the best LED solutions for a wide range of applications. With our custom approach we can deliver exactly what you need whilst remaining cost effective and timely. The core of all our business has always been – innovative design, superior quality and outstanding service.

As we enter our 25th year in business we continue to deliver impressive solutions and remain as innovative as ever.

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Bulk Head Commercial Directory Exterior Street Lighting Tunnel Lighting

Urbis Shreder

Urbis Schreder has been providing high quality lighting products since 1977 and has since grown to be one of the UK’s largest suppliers of street lighting and exterior decorative lighting equipment. Technical quality and aesthetic design are at the heart of our philosophy and coupled with our customer focussed work ethic, has led Urbis to develop the most cost effective, energy efficient exterior lighting innovations on the market today.