Prize(s) Honorable Mentions
Lighting Design/Product Company Schmitz Schiminski Nolte Mathee Design Partg
Lead Designers Henrik Nolte
Other Designer's names Matthias Schiminski, Jan Mathee
Architecture Company Springmeier Architekten Braunschweig, Germany
Interior Design Company Springmeier Architekten Braunschweig, Germany
Client Bistum Hildesheim, community of St. Petrus Wolfenbuettel
Photo Credits Schmitz Schiminski Nolte Mathee Design Partg
Completion Date 2024
Project Location Harztorwall 2, 38300 Wolfenbuettel, Germany
Entry DescriptionThe renovation of St. Petrus Church in Wolfenbüttel introduces an innovative lighting concept that reinforces the high architectural value of the neo-Romanesque basilica while making the space brighter, more welcoming, and multifunctional.
In the nave, linear pendant luminaires close to the ceiling combine direct and indirect light: high-performance darklight reflectors ensure glare-free visual comfort, while the indirect component subtly reveals the painted wooden ceiling.
Accents are placed with precision: the organ, gallery, and the newly designed baptismal font become focal points. Concealed luminaires highlight the flowing water, while underwater spots reveal the stone basin. Above, gilded ring luminaires reinterpret Romanesque chandeliers, linking altar and font with a warm vertical glow.
Flexible spotlights in transept and chancel adapt the atmosphere for worship, concerts, or festive celebrations, while wallwashers in the aisles expand spatial perception and emphasize the Stations of the Cross.
All luminaires are dimmable via KNX, with dynamic color and preset scenes that balance functionality and ergonomic comfort. Ecological sensitivity is ensured through efficient optics, daylight-responsive controls, and low energy use.
The contemporary extension “Room of Silence” features recessed downlights that adapt to daylight, bringing ecological awareness and refined comfort
Sustainability ApproachThe lighting of St. Petrus Church in Wolfenbüttel was designed with a strong focus on sustainability and longevity. All luminaires are from renowned manufacturers whose materials are up to 95% recyclable. Custom linear pendants by Metallbau Birke feature a modular design, allowing all components to be individually replaced, extending service life and reducing the need for full replacements. Fixtures can be lowered for maintenance, avoiding costly equipment and disruption. Despite limited operating hours, the system ensures easy upkeep, minimizes resource use, and reduces the church’s ecological footprint
