Prize(s) Winners in Heritage Lighting Design
Lighting Design/Product Company DANILOF studio light + perception
Lead Designers Athanassios / Thanos Danilof
Client Hellenic Parliament
Photo Credits Gavriil Papadiotis
Other Credits E. Engineering: Insta, Contractor: Zambelis, PM: M. Psyllias, Programming: D.Kapetanellis
Completion Date 2024
Project Location Athens, Greece
Entry DescriptionThe Greek Parliament building was designed by Bavarian architect F. von Gärtner and completed in 1843 as a royal palace. It became the seat of Parliament in 1935. In front of it is the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, designed by sculptor F.Rok and architect E.Lazaridis, unveiled in 1932 to honor fallen soldiers. It is guarded by the elite Evzones in traditional attire.
The building features a neoclassical design with symmetrical facades on all four sides, made of limestone and marble. The Monument incorporates classical Greek elements, with a relief of a fallen warrior carved into marble, flanked by inscriptions of battles from ancient times to the modern era, blending seamlessly into Syntagma (Constitution) Square.
The old lighting system had become outdated. The new design aims to enhance the aesthetics of this prominent Athenian landmark in an environmentally responsible way. From sunset onwards, the new light composition evolves gently throughout each evening. Scheduled scenes with varying white light intensities and temperatures succeed one another with exceptionally smooth transitions.
The concept gently reveals: a) the successive levels of the overall formation, b) the rhythm and plasticity of the architectural elements (marble window frames, pediments, eaves, cornices, pilasters, and porticos),c) the color and texture of the materials and d) the statues.
Sustainability ApproachProtection against light pollution was prioritized by primarily using low light levels and adjusting to very low levels after midnight to preserve the dark sky. A key design feature is the preprogrammed shift from cool white to warm light, as warmer hues emit less blue light, thereby reducing pollution. This adjustment occurs daily at midnight. The compact LED fixtures include precision optical systems, locked aiming capabilities, and anti-glare components to minimize upward light diffusion. The study also aimed to seamlessly integrate the new lighting into the building and surroundings by a) respecting unique morphological features and b) utilizing and improving existing electrical pathways when feasible. The facade fixtures underwent special surface treatments to match the mounting surface, making them less visible during the day. Historical lanterns were restored and upgraded
