Prize(s) Honorable Mentions
Lighting Design/Product Company Lighting Design Alliance
Lead Designers Charles Israel
Other Designer's names Varma V.S.K. Namburi, Chris Bright, Kenneth Moore, Megan Muphy, Jason Stroebel
Architecture Company TVS Architecture and Interior Design
Interior Design Company TVS Architecture and Interior Design
Client Mr. and Mrs. Mukesh Ambani, Reliance Industries Limited
Photo Credits Harshan Thomson
Other Credits Local Design Support provided by: Light Vision India
Completion Date March 2023
Project Location Mumbai, India
Entry DescriptionIn a nation accustomed to simple 5000K cool white fluorescent lighting, this project redefined the standard. Educating ownership and operations on proper light levels, glare control, and advanced design was crucial. The owners envisioned a world-class destination that would exemplify India’s capabilities in both technology and design. The lighting design masterfully integrated traditional Indian elements into a modern architectural vision, featuring lotus-inspired chandeliers, backlit jaali ceilings, and illuminated metal grilles. Large-scale artwork was discreetly highlighted with concealed accents. Custom features were meticulously detailed, with full-size mock-ups for the construction team and ownership’s approval. Special attention was given to eliminate glare from highly reflective surfaces, utilizing lighting coves and deeply shielded downlights with custom diffusing glass trims. Over 240 unique fixture types required a three-name specification for competitive bidding, and the immense project size necessitated a custom documentation platform to manage the vast array of drawings, specifications, and RFIs. Fixtures were rigorously tested to ensure quality and longevity, resulting in an extended warranty. As technology evolved over the decade-long project, specifications were continually upgraded to maintain cutting-edge standards.
Sustainability ApproachWhile retaining all its beauty, the project was also LEED Platinum Certified, a testament to its sustainability. The owner requested the project to be a "Technology Showcase". Every light fixture was individually controlled and programmed with a modern DALI control system, the largest ever built by the vendor. Dynamic lighting included 4 channel RGBA DMX controlled LEDs, all coordinated through the same lighting control system. All combined, there are over 14,500 unique control zones. The advanced control system also included photocells for the expansive 4 story daylit pre-function area, as well as occupancy sensors in all non-performance spaces. ALL light fixtures are high-efficiency LED, with the majority of light fixtures are sourced in this region of India, reducing the carbon footprint of the project.
