Duke University Student Wellness Center

Lead Designers Francesca Bettridge, Michael Hennes, Jeff Hoenig

Entry Description

Duke University's new, LEED Silver Student Wellness Center is designed to be integral to the healing process through its "sensitive response to the human condition.” The Center’s lighting design actively contributes to making this vision a reality.

Through its natural materials and expansive, transparent wall, the architecture provides a sanctuary for the student population. The lighting design illuminates the building from within, creating a welcoming presence that emphasizes this commitment. The many layers of light softly illuminate the interior surfaces and effectively dematerialize the exterior glass wall.

To heighten the effect of the light so it appears to come from the structure itself, the lighting is integrated and hidden into the architecture. The lighting is detailed in a way that prevents direct light-spill from the building into the sky after dark. An astronomical timeclock controls the lighting, dimming it slowly over the evening.

Lighting is a key element in a design that enriches the environment, promotes a sense of well-being and encourages students to use the Center’s services, reinforcing the importance of health and wellness at the university.

Company Description

Cline Bettridge Bernstein Lighting Design (CBB) is dedicated to enhancing the grace, utility, and comfort of architectural spaces with light. The 17-person firm is certified as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) - locally by NY State and NY City, and nation-wide by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).
CBB provides architectural lighting design services for buildings and sites of every type, size, and architectural style. This portfolio encompasses celebrated sites around the world.