Prize(s) Winners in Workplace Lighting Design
Company The SEED
Lead Designers Golsana Heshmati
Other Designer's names Simon Schadler
Client Galaxy Digital
Photo Credits Naho Kubota
Completion Date December 2022
Project Location New York
Entry DescriptionA digital asset and blockchain leader was looking to create a new hub for their team with a design that reflects their energized workplace. The lighting designers were asked to create varying and unique atmospheres throughout the 33,000-square-foot office while keeping the existing luminaires in place. Lighting was thoughtfully woven into the architectural fabric of the space, generating a rich expression of the forms and textures throughout. The lighting design team meticulously studied the visual comfort and experience of occupants, including employees, clients and visitors.
Upon arrival to the elevator vestibule, a bright media screen recessed into a dark ceiling creates a visual impact. Soft, whimsical lighting emanates through the glass doors, inviting guests into the formal lobby where layers of light draw attention to architectural surfaces and objects. Round mirrored pendants reflect light backward, bringing awareness to face-to-face communication. The juxtaposition of soft vertical and bold sculptural lighting creates diversity and relief amidst the repetition of existing fixtures. Movable chain-link curtains at the private office perimeter are illuminated from both sides, emphasizing the “scrim nature” of the material which can be opaque or translucent, depending on the level of privacy desired. Separate dimming features allow personalized controls at each office.
Sustainability ApproachAchieving sustainability in lighting in this project was made possible through the seamless integration of smart control systems, sensors, LED technology, and daylight harvesting techniques. By leveraging these innovative technologies, the lighting system now operates more efficiently, adjusting automatically to occupancy and natural light levels, resulting in a remarkable decrease in energy consumption and significant cost savings. Additionally, the original power consumption was decreased by reducing the number of fixtures used, thereby further promoting energy savings and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The successful implementation of these sustainable lighting practices has resulted in a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective building, demonstrating the importance of adopting energy-efficient lighting technologies.
