Tianjin Dabei Buddhist Monastery Lighting Renewal Project

Lead Designers Zhijun Wang

Entry Description

Dabei Buddhist Monastery, Tianjin's sole extant comprehensive Buddhist monastery, was originally constructed during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties. It is recognized as a cultural heritage site and a historically significant architectural complex under special protection in Tianjin.
This lighting design project encompasses all structures within the temple, with a particular focus on enhancing the illumination of the central axis buildings. Numerous challenges were encountered, including the restoration of ancient architectural paintings, control of brightness to create a "friendly light environment," concealment and fixation of lighting fixtures, ensuring the lighting environment and fixtures are in harmony with the architectural style, and the concealment of electrical conduits and equipment.
Adhering to the Buddhist concept of "a single ray of light illuminating thousands," and the principle that "when water is full, it overflows; when light is excessive, it becomes mundane," the project has made significant efforts in shaping architectural forms, creating spatial atmospheres, guiding visual behaviors, emphasizing site characteristics, innovating in the application of lighting technology, integrating artistic design, designing according to local conditions, and creating multi-sensory experiences.

Sustainability Approach

We have established a closed loop through four major dimensions: functional design, user experience optimization, durability technology upgrades, and full life cycle maintenance. This integrated design strategy, which covers the entire value chain of "R&D - use - maintenance - regeneration," significantly reduces the company's overall operating costs. Ultimately, it shapes a sustainable business model that combines economic efficiency with environmental responsibility.
The project has invented the "wooden fish" lamp, for which a patent has been obtained.
Embracing the "less is more" philosophy, we achieve optimal lighting effects with the fewest possible fixtures. This approach significantly reduces energy consumption, effectively controls light pollution, and preserves the beauty of the night sky.