Prize(s) Winners in Other Lighting Designs
Lighting Design/Product Company Akarui
Lead Designers Isabelle Lane and Marcus Steffen
Architecture Company Resident Architects
Client No1 Lounges
Other Credits Contractor – Four Seasons; M&E – Cundall
Completion Date December 2024
Project Location Heathrow Airport, Terminal 2
Entry DescriptionThe new No1 Lounge at Heathrow T2 offers travellers a peaceful, sophisticated space to unwind before a flight, in a modern & contemporary setting.
Lighting design studio Akarui were appointed to create the lighting scheme for the new Lounge. The studio’s design embodies the essence of comfort & refined sophistication. Designed to provide a relaxing retreat within the dynamic airport environment, the lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping an atmosphere for travellers to unwind before their journey.
Akarui meticulously designed a lighting scheme that adapts throughout the day & harmonises with the outside lighting. As there is almost no natural daylight in the lounge, this was of particular importance, ensuring the guests' circadian rhythm is not interrupted.
During daylight hours, slightly elevated light levels maintain a bright yet comfortable environment, supporting alertness. As evening approaches, the lighting transitions to a softer, more intimate glow, fostering a sense of relaxation before departure.
Central to Akarui’s approach was the seamless integration of architectural & decorative lighting. Illumination is placed only where needed to craft the perfect ambience. A palette of warm colour temperatures was carefully selected to create a sense of calm & well-being, reducing stress in an inviting sanctuary away from the airport’s high-energy surroundings.
Sustainability ApproachTo ensure longevity & flexibility for the end client, Casambi was selected to provide simple control with easy maintenance & redundancy, ensuring the system will last beyond the operational life of the lounge. This allows the client to adjust lighting levels & scenes with precision, catering to operational needs while maintaining energy efficiency & extending the lifespan of the lighting installation. The result is lighting that not only elevates the passenger experience but also ensures long-term sustainability & effortless management. The project achieved a LENI value of 14.3kWh/m2/year for the front of house, while maintaining a comfortable environment with low glare & practical task lighting. The back of house achieves a LENI value of 25.1kWh/m2/year, 67% below the level required under the building regulations. By using LENI, a highly efficient scheme was delivered.
