light digital means reconsidering light in every dimension.

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1 E The Light Factory

2 Contents Editorial. The Light Factory in the digital age Editorial The Light Factory in the digital age 1 The Light Factory The Light Factory Lighting design Efficient visual comfort Expertise ERCO LED technology Simplicity ERCO lighting tools Our application areas Diversity with light Work Planning office lighting Shop Planning shop lighting Culture Planning exhibition lighting Community Planning light for public buildings Hospitality Planning light for gastronomy Living Planning light for homes Public Planning light for public places Contemplation Planning light for sacred buildings When ERCO signalled that it was the first established luminaire manufacturer worldwide to develop, produce and sell light based entirely on digital technology, the news caused great excitement in the lighting and architecture sectors. light digital has since become our leitmotif, summarising our approach to reconsider lighting in every possible aspect based on the opportunities of LED technology. Development and production at ERCO are deliberately located in Germany, enabling us to guarantee ultimate precision and quality of our lighting tools one more reason why we call ourselves the Light Factory. But is the metaphor of a factory not a touch outdated in the era of digital light? Not at all, actually. Whilst development work for ERCO LED innovations may, in some ways, be more representative of the agile, networked approach of digital start-ups, it is firmly grounded in the experience of an industrial company with a long tradition, providing us with the means and momentum to concen trate on what ERCO has always done best: perfecting architectural light with ultimate precision. Every aspect of the process, from the design and development through to production and assembly, is handled under one roof. The short distances promote interdisciplinary dialogue whilst maintaining the superior quality for which we are recognised. Working with an international network of ERCO consultants, we keep our finger on the pulse of time and beyond, committed to the continuous development of products that meet the current requirements of architects, lighting and electrical designers in the field. One year after our complete and radical change to digital light, ERCO LED tech nology has now become a natural choice for creative and technical designers as a tool for more user-friendly and energy-efficient concepts of perception-orientated architectural lighting. light digital means reconsidering light in every dimension. ERCO Light Factory 1

3 The Light Factory ERCO is a leading international specialist in architectural lighting, using 100% LED technology. The family business, based in Lüdenscheid, in the heart of Germany, now operates as a global player with independent sales organisations and partners in 55 countries worldwide. Founded in 1934, ERCO pioneered architectural lighting across Europe in the 1960s, and today, less than 50 years later, is the first established luminaire manufacturer with a portfolio based entirely on LED technology. Around 1,000 committed and dedicated ERCO employees worldwide ensure that LED technology is developed from a pure tech nology into a sophisticated lighting tool because perception-orientated lighting design, implemented in the context of efficient visual comfort, is our mission. Focus at ERCO is given to open, interdisciplinary and international cooperation: While our ERCO luminaires are developed and produced carefully and with an eye on the future by our team at the Lüdenscheid Light Factory, our competent and motivated consultants at international ERCO sales offices ensure that they are used in thousands of different applications around the globe. We would be delighted to offer you the possibility of experiencing ERCO lighting tools in operation: in any of our ERCO showrooms worldwide as well as in workshops at our headquarters, and of course at trade fairs and other industry events. More information at: Top: Welcome to ERCO in talks at the Light+ Building booth. Right: The international ERCO team engaged in discussing digital innovations and current lighting issues. The Light Finder as our interactive online planning tool with efficient ERCO product search function can be found at lightfinder. Alterna tively, it can be downloaded as an app. The ERCO catalogue, all product data sheets, didactic knowledgebased modules and ERCO brochures can be downloaded at download. To order the printed catalogue go to: product-catalogue Be inspired by our projects around the globe and subscribe to our Digital Lichtbericht at newsletter ERCO supports design - ers at every stage of their work with an efficient product search, inspiration from refer - ence projects and light - ing expertise. More at 2 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 3

4 Lighting design Light is essential. Light is poetic. Light provides atmosphere and orientation. People have always used light as a way of creating harmonious places. ERCO understands light as the fourth dimension of architecture. As a design feature in its own right, light can model space and objects using different levels of illuminance and alter the nocturnal appearance of architecture significantly. The ERCO product range is based entirely on LED technology, as a logical consequence of our position in delivering perfect light. LED light, with its flexibility and precision, has widened the options of modelling architecture significantly and can now satisfy any and all requirements. Our lighting tools are developed in close collaboration with architects, lighting designers and electrical consultants. Intensive dialogue with the industry stakeholders gives ERCO a clear, realistic and yet also a visionary idea of what the designer requires. Creative thinking inspires us, and we want to share this inspiration. We see our role as consultants, working in the background to support designers in the implementation of their concepts with targeted solutions. Qualitative lighting design ERCO lighting tools afford the creative scope required for the lighting design of complex building projects. With this in mind, our products are developed on the basis of a perception-orientated approach to lighting design. The American architect and lighting designer Richard Kelly ( ) distinguished the qualities of light into three basic functions: ambient luminescence, focal glow and play of brilliants. This language of light is an optimal solution for the illumination of architecture from the large open-plan office and boutique through to the library as it contributes significantly to meeting the requirements of its users. Experience has shown that lighting concepts are considered to be pleasing and successful when all three components ambient lighting, directed accent light and decorative lighting effects are present in a well- balanced relationship. The language of light is a reliable approach used to analyse and structure lighting concepts and to select the right lighting tools. With a variety of light distribution patterns, warm white and neutral white light, different sizes and lumen categories, the system design for the luminaires in our extensive ERCO range offers all the components required for a differentiated and user-focused lighting concept. More information at: Digital light is the fourth dimension of architecture. Ambient luminescence This type of lighting refers to uniform general lighting, e.g. through downlights or through uniform vertical illuminance. It enables users and observers to find their bearings and provides them with a feeling of safety. Focal glow This typifies accent lighting used to emphasise objects, areas and specific zones in a space and to create hierarchies of perception. It is a primary consideration in the scenographic illumination of art and fashion, façades and monuments which are intended to attract attention. Play of brilliants This is the decorative light, the light that attracts attention; it is light as an aesthetic end in itself and includes light effects using coloured light as well as decorative luminaires and objects of light art. 4 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 5

5 Efficient visual comfort 80% Vertical illuminance Wallwashing enhances the impression of brightness, making rooms appear more spacious. A differentiated lighting concept with a significant component of vertical illuminance holds the secret to superior efficiency and light quality. Combined with accent light, it reduces contrasts that cause premature eye fatigue. With the vertical planes of an environment making up around 80% of our visual perception, this explains why vertical illuminance plays such a crucial role in qualitative lighting design as well as for the efficiency of the lighting concept. Effective and efficient technology ERCO has developed optical systems for LED technology to meet various different lighting requirements efficiently and with enhanced visual comfort. This includes lens systems with ERCO s patented Spherolit technology, enabling light to be directed precisely where it is needed using the full spectrum of light distribution options. ERCO sources the best high-power LEDs available in the market, specifying the highest standards of colour deviation, lumen maintenance and forward voltage. Combined with excellent thermal management, this ensures optimum operating conditions and a long life of the LEDs. Intelligent lighting control Lighting control is essential not only for scenographic effects and concepts, but also to improve energy efficiency. ERCO LEDs perform superbly when dimmed, making them great for flexible installations, and with ERCO control gear, they can be dimmed down continuously to 1%. Lighting requires energy. Manufacturers, designers, engineers and users are obliged to use limited resources to the greatest effect. ERCO helps you rise to this challenge by supplying only the most efficient LED technology. Efficient visual comfort (EVC) for ERCO means a permanent and consistent optimisation of both the energy efficiency and the light quality through innovative technical concepts that enable sustainable lighting design. EVC, as a strategy, rests on the intent of designing light with focus on the user based on the principles of human perception, requirements of the space and efficient glare control, thereby minimising energy usage. We have defined five quality factors that describe efficient visual comfort at ERCO. Qualitative lighting design In putting people at the heart of its strategy, ERCO develops and designs its products with focus on a careful, perception- orientated approach to lighting design. ERCO lighting technology uses light to create hierarchies of perception, and specifically, to ensure optimised performance of the visual task at hand. Qualitative lighting design centres on vertical illuminance and accentuation, as well as glare control. Glare-free surroundings with consistent luminance levels are easier on the eye, eliminating the need to adapt constantly to changing lighting conditions. This enables the designer to produce an energy-efficient solution based on lower illuminance levels and subtle contrasts. Vertical illuminance Due to the natural orientation of our visual field, the vertical planes of an environment constitute around 80% of our perception, making them far more important to the subjective perception of brightness than the light on horizontal surfaces. Vertical illuminance, therefore, is a characteristic feature of well-designed and economical lighting concepts. ERCO offers an exceptionally wide range of appropriate lighting tools. Our wallwashers produce a wide and spacious impression of the room whilst reducing visual contrasts to provide excellent lighting for the workplace with minimal energy requirements. The use of LED technology pays off yet again here by producing light of utmost precision and uniformity and ensuring maximum efficiency in energy use and maintenance. The large luminaire spacing possible with ERCO s wallwashers supports the cost-efficient context of vertical illuminance. Effective lighting technology Efficient, precise optical systems lower the energy requirement for lighting. A comprehensive array of solutions ensures optimised light distribution for specific lighting tasks. This extends from the asymmetrical wallwasher to various spotlight characteristics. ERCO lighting tools offer highly effective technology designed to direct the light specifically onto surfaces relevant to perception. The projected light of LEDs, combined with the high-quality lens systems provided by ERCO, ensures significant efficiency advantages over conventional light guidance through reflection. Intelligent lighting control ERCO offers luminaires for different control technologies, such as DALI control and phase dimming. This makes scenic lighting uncomplicated and accessible. Typical scenarios include the use of presence detectors to dim or switch off lighting in unused rooms. Similarly, ambient lighting sensors or analogue daylight sensors can be used to recall light scenes to supplement the available daylight. ERCO lighting tools combined with control gear developed in-house guarantee optimised dimming characteristics, making most of them ideal for filming, with continuous dimming down to 1%. Efficient LED technology ERCO s accomplishments and leading role in architectural lighting with LED are based on the decision to draw on its own expertise in optoelectronics. With in-house development from LED PCBs and electronics to thermal management ERCO is always in control of its products and their specific characteristics. Therein lies the basis for the efficiency of our luminaires and the principle at the core of each and every ERCO lighting tool: specifying the highest standards for our high-power LEDs, based on criteria such as colour rendering and constancy, luminous flux and thermal stability, enables us to guarantee consistently exceptional quality in terms of luminous efficacy and long life. By changing to LED technology, ERCO now focuses its approach on creating lighting tools with light source and photometric technology combined into a single integral element to support maximum planning efficiency. 6 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 7

6 Expertise The timely decision that ERCO made almost 10 years ago to begin a complete migration to LED has proven an enormous advantage for today. After just eight years of con centrated development work, we were the first established luminaire manufacturer in 2015 with a range of products based completely on LED technology. Our close interdisciplinary collaboration with lighting technicians, engineers and designers enables us to maximise our innovative capacity without compromising on quality. We are, and remain, committed to our Lüdenscheid base on the edge of the Rhine-Ruhr metropolitan area, which offers the optimum infrastructure for networked and innovative thinking. Research and development The complete and consistent change to LED technology had ERCO reconsider light in every possible aspect. Since then, the course for ERCO to take the lead in architectural LED lighting is set in our development department, where our digital technology originates at the interface between optical systems, electronics and information technology. The decision, back in 2006, to form our own dedicated optoelectronics team to focus our development work on LEDs as the technology of the future, is now coming to fruition in the form of digital lighting tools designed to the highest standards. Our holistic approach to light as a coherent entity, from the selection of LEDs and the development of control gear and optical systems through to the design concept, makes ERCO unique in its development methodology. Product design Design has always played a key role at ERCO. Strong concepts and creativity form the backbone of a design team focused on the creation of a distinct design language for our LED product range on the principles of functional minimalism. At the same time, our team is permanently engaged with advancing our archetypal and flexible system design, which enables creative designers to select the optimal ERCO products for their project and combine them with each other as required. Production and assembly ERCO has its manufacturing base in Germany. The production and assembly processes at our site in Lüdenscheid are closely monitored and optimised consistently to guarantee effi ciency and superior quality. At the same time, the short distances between development and production increase and channel our efficiency in the best possible way, ensuring that the close dialogue between our experts reflects in highly agile product development and premium solutions. All our electronics are manufactured with ESD protection in a carefully monitored and controlled reflow process for optimised assembly based on a meticulously researched time and temperature profile. The result is products that ensure long life and remarkably low failure rates. Our suppliers are just as carefully selected for lasting partnerships built on trust so ERCO customers can rely on our products 100%. "Made in Germany": Globalising the art of German engineering. Short distances at the Light Factory: ERCO luminaires reflect the close dialogue between physicians and engineers, designers and architects. 8 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 9

7 ERCO LED technology 10 ERCO Light Factory digital analogue Projection replaces reflection Conventional point light sources emit light in a solid angle of virtually 360, whereas the inherent design of LEDs means their light is directed in a solid angle of <180. The result is reduced losses due to spill light or light emitted towards the lamp holder. Furthermore, the higher transmission efficiency of lenses compared to that of reflectors produces a higher light output ratio which results in the greater luminous flux from the luminaire. In practice it comes down to how much light arrives on the target surface. LED lenses Be it for downlights, spotlights or wallwashers: ERCO develops all its lenses in-house, guaranteeing maximum precision and efficiency for any application. Today, the architectural lighting branch is well on the way in its migration to LED technology. The focus is now on exploiting the full potential of state-of-the-art digital lighting technology in all areas of creative lighting from shops to offices and administration buildings through to museums. ERCO has taken the lead in optoelectronics, by developing LED products in response to the lighting requirements of modern architectural, cultural and corporate projects. Our strengths in putting this technology to use for your benefit are outlined below. LED modules ERCO is known for its perfectionist approach to details: We source the best high- power LEDs available in the market from reputable manufacturers specifying the highest standards of luminous efficacy, colour rendering and consistency, luminous flux and forward voltage. Using the same LEDs for all our products in a yearly LED upgrade cycle ensures that all ERCO luminaires can be combined with each other. Utmost attention is given to the LED PCBs as the basis for the characteristics of the relevant lighting tool. Based on state-of-the-art LED technology, ERCO develops and populates its PCBs in-house. This approach enables us to guarantee a consistently high quality in all product details. Long functional life: L90/B10 Lumen maintenance is a critical performance metric for luminaires and explains our focus on ensuring the best values for the LEDs in our products. ERCO therefore uses LEDs with the specification L90/B10 for a very consistent lifetime performance, supported by advanced thermal management in great lighting tools. This means that over a period of 50,000 hours, effectively 90% of the LEDs or more still achieve 90% of their original luminous flux. As well as this impressive performance, the LEDs used at ERCO have an amazingly low failure rate of 0.1%, and even then, the luminaire remains fully operational. Our focus on the highest quality means that ERCO LEDs exceed the standard specification currently used in the market, offering the lowest possible maintenance requirements for the highest possible efficiency of our lighting tools. LED lenses As the quality and design of the lenses affects the performance of an LED luminaire significantly, we have invested considerably in superior lens systems. Be it shops, offices or exhibitions: ERCO has developed optimised lighting systems to meet the various different lighting requirements. This includes solutions such as the modular lens system with Spherolit technology and the cost-effective assimilated lens system as prime examples that perfectly illustrate the potential of LED technology. Understanding the effect of light distribution in a concept, we apply ourselves to providing the widest array of precise photometric options to support a differentiated lighting design. Maximum precision: Projection replaces reflection With the 100% migration to LED technology, ERCO has perfected the principle of light projection in preference to conven tional reflection. The LED as a compact point light source is ideal for projections with highly precise light distributions achieving a high light output ratio without spill light. The directed light of the LEDs is focused through special ERCO optical systems ensuring an optimum luminous efficacy and maximum precision in guiding the light only and exactly where it is needed. The brilliance and flexibility of the projected ERCO LED light open up a diversity of new options in the design of rooms and ensure that the light arrives on the target surface with no losses. Thermal management Thermal management is a key design factor in ensuring the longevity of LEDs and electronic components, and ultimately, in optimising the lumen maintenance of the luminaire. ERCO uses passive heat sinks that dissipate heat through convection, ensuring efficient and quiet operation. All our LED modules are designed to operate comfortably within their approved temperature range to achieve their rated life and output for the specified power, and that throughout their entire operational life. As a result, thermal management at ERCO contributes to implementing an effective and sustainable lighting concept. Control gear ERCO s luminaires are always provided as a unit, with matched, pre-connected control gear for DALI and phase dimming. The control gear is precisely matched to the relevant LED module to ensure maximum efficiency of the LED over the specified number of operating hours with high luminous power. Every combination of luminaire and connected control gear is tested in-house so the user is ensured ideal operation and safety, including full compliance with EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) requirements. ERCO designs and manufactures the control gear for most of its indoor luminaires in-house. Using the constant current dimming method, with continuous dimming down to 1%, makes ERCO control gear particularly ideal for filming. ERCO Light Factory 11

8 Simplicity The ERCO luminaire system As important as light is for human perception, its significance is difficult to measure and compare in daily life. As a unique selling point in the market, ERCO explains complex lighting technology in a way that makes it easy to understand and operate. Focused on the user, ERCO lighting tools guarantee consistent quality, compatibility and comparabil ity. This simple luminaire system, applied to our product range, provides all our partners with true added value. Consistent light quality ERCO uses the same types of LEDs for all its products. The LEDs are updated every year for the annual product launch. Through strict specification of the components ERCO guarantees consistent light quality in terms of colour rendering, colour temperature, colour locus and luminous flux. ERCO offers LED luminaires in neutral white (4000K) or warm white (3000K), enabling the designer to produce subtle contrasts in a given space and emphasise the tactile qualities of materials. ERCO light distribution options Lighting concepts are as diverse as the architecture, the exhibition or the brand for which they are developed. In order to meet the different demands on light, ERCO offers specific application-oriented lens systems with different light distributions based on an easy-tounderstand system. This includes a broad spectrum of beam characteristics, such as the full bandwidth from narrow spot to flood and oval flood through to wallwash for spotights. These optionally create efficient ambient lighting, uniform wallwashing or directed accents. Downlight replaces linear fluorescent luminaire ERCO is motivated by the desire to perfect the key advantage of the LED optimised efficiency from a compact light source for office lighting. As a result, our new digital downlights offer an aesthetic alternative to linear luminaires, integrating discreetly into the ceiling design for brilliant light with excellent visual comfort. This approach displays the full capability of ERCO photo metric technology particularly with the oval flood characteristic: using a linear beam, it provides an exceptionally energy-efficient solution for the uniform illumination of elongated areas such as hallways and work desks. Product design ERCO s compact system design blends into both classic and modern architecture. Based on simple geometric shapes, all product ranges are easy to combine with each other and in different sizes. The enormous range of lumen packages covered by ERCO lighting tools gives the designer flexibility to execute projects of any scale and complexity. For even greater versatility in use, the ERCO in-house design team has developed a distinct functional design language that reflects the requirements of LED technology for the housing even from a visual aspect. Work light from point light sources Downlights offer a diversity of aesthetic and efficient alternatives to linear luminaires and fluorescent lamps without dominating the ceiling design. Consistent light quality ERCO ensures optimum consistency in the quality of light throughout its range by using LEDs with the same properties, including light colour, colour locus and luminous flux. Product design Systematic miniaturisation: In the era of digital light, ERCO s in-house design team has created a distinct design language focused increasingly on the principles of convenient and functional minimalism. ERCO light distributions ERCO s product range includes a broad spectrum of precise light distributions: from focused narrow spot and highly efficient extra wide and linear beams through to even wallwashing. Light understood in the system designed for practical diversity. 12 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 13

9 ERCO lighting tools Digital diversity Be it spotlights for accentuated exhibits and fashion, efficient downlights for pleasant office lighting or wallwashers in long office corridors ERCO s product range offers a comprehensive set of tools for qualitative lighting design in any application. Extending the design concept to the outdoor area, we have launched digital projectors, floodlights and wallwashers delivering excellent performance with a level of efficiency and glare control that may surprise even experienced designers. The diversity of our photometric technol - ogy and design options enable architects, lighting designers and electrical consultants to develop a comprehensive concept of indoor and outdoor lighting with ERCO luminaires: Major fashion labels use ERCO to create a distinct corporate lighting concept and present their products in brilliant light, but also for in-house art displays. Exhibition venues value our luminaires for their ability to render artwork in the most natural colours as well as for the efficient visual comfort they provide in the back office, whilst companies equip their workplaces with ERCO light and create strikingly illuminated façades that draw attention in the outdoor area. More information at 14 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 15

10 Our application areas. Diversity with light Every room needs its own lighting concept, to support the users, as well as to complement the architecture and the interior. ERCO s extensive experience in creative architectural and object lighting for different architectural segments links up with state-of-theart LED technology. We have summarised the individual advantages of ERCO LED lighting tools for modern office, retail, museum, airport and façade lighting on the following pages, which also address the main issues arising in the context of architectural lighting with LED against the backdrop of our eight main application areas. More at: Work Office buildings Offices Shop Car dealerships Retail and chain stores Shopping malls Supermarkets Culture Exhibition spaces Galleries Museums Community Administration buildings Airports, railway and bus stations Conference facilities Educational facilities Entertainment venues Hospitality Boats Hotels Restaurants and bars Spas and wellness architecture Sports facilities Living Care and retirement homes Private residences and apartments Public Bridges Car parks Monuments Parks Public places Contemplation Churches Mosques Synagogues Temples 16 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 17

11 Work Office buildings Offices Law firm Pinsent Masons, Belfast / Northern Ireland. Architecture: Niels Torp Architects, Oslo / Norway. New premises of graphic design specialist Gráficas Varias, Sant Sadurní d'anoia / Spain. Architecture (renovations): Pere Pujol Rosell, Sant Sadurní d'anoia / Spain. Interior design: Maria Esteban Reche, Metre Quadrat Studio, Sant Sadurní d'anoia / Spain. Office of Gruppo Lercari Insurance Services, Milan / Italy. Architecture and lighting design: Simone Paoletti, Genoa / Italy. 18 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 19

12 Planning office lighting A comfortable work environment with outstanding visual comfort is one of the keys to bringing out the best in every employee. As well as ensuring appropriate illuminance levels, this philosophy includes optimum glare control and the harmonious effect of vertical illuminance. With this in mind, ERCO has continually optimised its lighting tools to combine powerful and effective lighting technology for high light output ratios with optimum glare control. Compact LED downlights are the core of this approach and allow us to offer an aesthetic and cost-effective alternative to dominant linear luminaires and fluorescent lamps. 1 In which phase of an office project does lighting design become crucial? Digital light is the fourth dimension of architecture it is therefore a crucial part of the planning process, particularly in challenging spaces such as offices. Our global teams of consultants support creative and technical designers from the first stages of the concept with project-specific advice. Each lighting concept can also be viewed before implementation in our showrooms or by running mockups in the field. Our knowledge of the complexities of a building process reflects in the system design of our products: separate installation components for dry construction and electrics, such as mounting rings for downlights, optimise the logistics on site. 3 How can light be conducive to an environment for concen trated and productive working with high visual comfort? Ergonomic light in the workplace requires uniformity, high vertical illuminances and efficient glare control this is precisely what ERCO downlights offer. The enhanced visual comfort of an oval light distribution for desks is optimised further with uniform wallwashing. Combining bright vertical and horizontal surfaces, meanwhile, creates a balanced contrast that prevents premature eye strain. In addition to this, the glare-free light of downlights and wall - washers enhances the impression of brightness in the room and facilitates orientation. 2 Is there a flexible alternative to linear fluorescent luminaires for modern offices? 4 What makes office lighting economical? The demanding situations of working in a specialised knowledge society pose a challenge to conventional lighting solutions. Unlike square or linear fluorescent luminaires, downlights enable a wide variety of lighting solutions that integrate discreetly with architecture to accommodate any type of working situation: different light distributions such as oval flood illuminate open-plan offices, conference rooms and circulation areas, whereas lighting tools such as wallwashers produce a wide and spacious impression of the room. Downlights are a point light source and therefore allow workplace arrangements to break away from the direction of linear luminaires, enabling flexible room concepts designed to harmonise with the architecture. Different light distributions in an ERCO range enable application-oriented and therefore economical solutions: The ERCO downlight lens technology improves the efficiency of the optical system by guiding the light precisely onto the target surface with no losses. Optimised thermal management, ERCO control gear and LED modules with excellent lumen maintenance through to the end give rise to efficient lighting systems with low maintenance requirements. Oval flood distributions allow the luminaires to be spaced far apart for workplace lighting, thereby reducing the connected load of the system. Gebr. Heinemann logistics centre, Hamburg / Germany. Architecture: ifb Consulting Engineers & Architects, Hamburg / Germany. 20 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 21

13 Shop Car dealerships Grocery stores Retail and chain stores Shopping malls Antonia store, Milan / Italy. Architecture: Vincenzo De Cotiis, Milan / Italy. Lighting design: Black Out, Milan / Italy. Mercedes showroom, Lugano / Switzerland. Architecture: MERBAG Immobilien AG, Schlieren / Switzerland. Mykita store at the Bikini Berlin / Germany. Interior design: Mykita, Berlin / Germany. 22 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 23

14 Planning shop lighting Striking corporate lighting enhances the identity and image of international labels. Local brands, in contrast, maintain their status against competitors with inventive concepts, exquisite quality, individual service and, of course, the right lighting. ERCO spotlights and downlights include diverse and efficient light solutions for corporate lighting to present products in a professional and eye-catching style thereby creating a recognisable image for the brand environment. 1 How do I surprise my customers occasionally with new lighting concepts short of changing luminaires? In the shop, a track system with spotlights designed to be mounted without tools form the basis for a flexible lighting design. The system provides the infrastructure that allows flexible spotlight deployment on ceilings and walls or on suspended light structures. Just a few precise lighting tools can create eyecatching contrasts. Interchangeable lenses allow very creative photometric solutions whilst using a uniform product design. 3 How does light point up the high quality and natural properties of my products? Actual physical shops, unlike their digital counterparts, offer the advantage of an authentic and tangible shopping experience. Perception-orientated lighting concepts for effective product presentations combine accentuation with vertical illuminance. ERCO LED luminaires deliver a quality of light that reproduces colours faithfully, emphasises textures in the material and brings out even the most delicate surface features. The light spectrum is, in essence, free of ultraviolet and infrared components so colours remain stable and heat-sensitive products such as fresh produce remain protected. 2 How can customers be guided through the shop with highcontrast illumination? Dramatic lighting effects are a staple in merchandising. ERCO lighting tools, for this environment, offer the creative scope to use the light in the room to tell a story, highlight products effectively and apply the latest trends in retail design: accentuation with different light distributions such as narrow spot stage specific products perfectly, whereas oval flood distributions emphasise object ensembles and long items such as shelving, thereby dividing the shop into zones. Uniformly wallwashed surfaces have an almost magnetic effect, drawing customers even further into the room. Switchable ERCO spotlights perform superbly in retail applications that require powerful yet efficient light. The reason is excellent thermal management that ensures optimum power supply to the LEDs with 1050mA, resulting in higher illuminance on the target surface. As each offers the same long life, hierarchies of perception in the shop are easy to create with a minimum of investment and operating costs. 4 How do I transfer the lighting concept for my store accurately and consistently to my international branches? Recognisable light structures help to transform your brand into a spatial experience, by using contrast, light colour and zoning for a unique corporate lighting concept. ERCO showrooms and professional mock-ups let you test the visual effect of your concept before implementation, which ERCO will make easier for you with many years of experience in international chain store projects and a thorough understanding of sector- specific requirements. With the worldwide ERCO consulting and sales network, we can assist you in the execution of your project, for example by offering optimised site logistics with on-time deliveries, pre- assembled luminaires for instant installation, and full documentation. Kiton showroom, Milan / Italy. Architecture: Franco Raggi, Milan / Italy. Lighting design: Gruppo C14, Milan / Italy. 24 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 25

15 Culture Exhibition spaces Galleries Museums Louvre-Lens, Lens / France. Architecture: SANAA, Tokyo / Japan. Lighting design: Arup, London / England. Exhibition design: Studio Adrien Gardère, Paris / France. Barbican Centre, The Brits Who Built The Modern World exhibition, London / England. Museo de las Culturas del Mundo, Barcelona / Spain. 26 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 27

16 Planning exhibition lighting Effectively staging artwork and scientific objects in exhibitions, naturally in the best possible light, is defined as much by the core curatorial requirements as by the cultural environment and the zeitgeist. We have developed a wide range of LED spotlights with Spherolit lens technology to give exhibition organisers the broadest possible scope for design, from the neutral presentation of objects through to dramatically accentuated specialities. For decades, ERCO has given focus to the perfect perception of art enhancing it with precise and efficient lighting technology to preserve the art while rendering it in brilliant colours. 1 How does light emphasise the effect of art? Light quality and visual comfort have a huge impact on the atmosphere in an exhibition. ERCO LED modules and the proprietary photometric systems help to present art realis tically thanks to optimal colour rendering, identical light colours and a consistent colour locus through to the end. The LED light projected through the precision Spherolit lenses creates very uniform light distributions with a precise beam that sets each object apart. Superb glare control offers optimal visual comfort for the visitors. 3 How do you come up with ever new exhibition concepts in a modern design? You may work with a cool White Cube or take a narrative approach to your scenographic concept the fact is that light can focus attention and provide orientation in any room. A track system as infrastructure offers the greatest flexibility here. ERCO spotlights are easy to mount on track without tools and are quick to adjust and align. Interchangeable Spherolit lenses enable the designer to work with different light distributions. Be it narrow spot, flood, oval flood or wallwash characteristics a single luminaire range covers the full spectrum required to direct the view, model objects and shape the perception of space. When using phase dimmable spotlights, the luminous flux can additionally be adjusted directly on the luminaire so the level of brightness can be regulated precisely without the complexities of a control unit. 2 How do you illuminate art as an eye-catching feature without damaging it? The light emitted by the ERCO LED lighting tools is effectively free of ultraviolet and infrared components, thereby minimising the damaging effect of photochemical and thermodynamic processes that cause materials and colours to deteriorate. In addition, the different light distributions, along with dimmer settings of up to 1%, let the user design perception-orientated lighting concepts with varied, high-contrast lighting effects that focus maximum attention with low illuminances. Vertical illuminances with wallwashers add a complementary touch that gives the room a bright impression when using low illuminance levels. 4 Is the museum angle still a useful formula to use with LED technology? Established lighting principles such as the museum angle are useful even in the age of LED technology to implement lighting solutions with efficient visual comfort. Light with an angle of incidence of 30 models the three-dimensionality of sculptures and helps to illuminate pictures without causing glare. To reduce glare still further, the luminaires are best mounted next to, not above, the artwork. The light quality of the ERCO LED modules and our specially developed optical systems ensure that art is presented realistically thanks to optimal colour rendering, identical light colours and a consistent colour locus through to the end. Musée Bourdelle, Paris / France. Architecture (renova tions): Christian de Portzamparc, Casablanca / Morocco. 28 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 29

17 Community Administration buildings Airports, railway and bus stations Conference and entertainment venues Educational facilities Restaurant at the CEA (Commissariat à l'énergie atomique), Saclay / France. Architecture (renovations): Olivier Delaittre, Paris / France. Linz Music Theatre / Austria. Architecture: Terry Pawson, London / England. Lighting design: Kress & Adams natural and artificial lighting design studio, Cologne / Germany. Aeropuerto Internacional de Carrasco, Montevideo / Uruguay. Architecture: Rafael Viñoly Architects, New York / USA; Carla Bechelli Arquitectos, Buenos Aires / Argentina. Lighting design: Ricardo Hofstadter, Montevideo / Uruguay. 30 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 31

18 Planning light for public buildings Economical solutions with high visual comfort are crucial for the illumination of educational, administration and transport buildings since they have to support low long-term operational costs. As well as accentuating the architectural concept, light in administration buildings, conference and entertainment facilities, airports and railway or bus stations facilitates orientation and therefore helps to ensure the safety of large crowds. In many cases, this requires illumination of monumentally large and often high spaces by using high levels of luminous flux as well as efficient glare control. ERCO s double-focus downlights, in particular, facilitate effective lighting solutions and deliver an optimal environment for administration, education and work with focus on the requirements of the public, but also the individual. 1 What are the specific challenges of lighting design for public buildings? Light plays a crucial role in the design of public buildings, as it must balance the interests of the general public with those of the individual. Circulation zones as well as work, waiting, communication and break areas each present their own challenges in terms of visual comfort and privacy. They therefore require specific lighting solutions that reconcile the seemingly conflicting priorities of a perception-orientated approach and low operating costs. ERCO s homogeneous system design enables a cross-functional, perceptionorientated lighting concept by providing different design sizes, diverse light distributions and a wide variety of lumen categories within a luminaire range. We are committed to making the whole project, from start to finish, as easy as possible on the designer and builder, with planning aids and the experience we offer in dealing with the challenges on site. 3 What does efficient lighting in the public sector imply? Luminous efficacy and light output ratio describe the efficiency of a luminaire in quantitative terms and are often mandated in standards. For a luminaire to be efficient in every aspect of its application, however, the light needs to arrive on the target surface with as little loss as possible. This can be achieved, for example, with the precise optoelectronic systems that ERCO designs and manufactures in-house. A qualitative lighting concept supports this aspect of efficiency, in that light is used only where it serves to enhance perception. An optimised, cohesive system consisting of control gear, thermal management, LED and lens ensures that the light is generated efficiently and guided precisely where it needs to be. Our durable luminaires are easy to operate, particularly in areas that are difficult to access for maintenance. What is more, efficient ERCO photometrics minimise the number of luminaires required, as the luminaires can be spaced unusually far apart, offering high visual comfort. 2 How does light aid orientation in administration, education and transport buildings? 4 How do you achieve glare-free yet efficient light in areas with high ceilings? Vertical planes make up around 80% of our visual perception. Illuminated walls support human orientation by increasing the perception of ambient brightness, while creating reference points that help us perceive a space and its dimensions. ERCO lens wallwashers are excellent for uniform vertical illuminance, and better still, the luminaires can be spaced far apart. Complemented by accent lighting to focus attention on specific zones and information elements, the perception-orientated approach can be applied even to large rooms. In rooms with high ceilings, such as reception halls or event spaces, the narrow-beam light distribution of the double-focus downlights enables broad use for efficient ambient lighting with excellent glare control. The room appears brighter, with a balanced contrast between horizontal and vertical illuminance levels, particularly in combination with lens wallwashers. In prestigious spaces with ceilings of less than 5m, we recommend using downlights with a wide beam distribution, as this allows wider luminaire spacing for more uniform ambient lighting. Efficient glare control is vital here in minimising the view into the lumi naires with a 90 emission angle and a 40 cut-off, Quintessence downlights are a superb choice. Head office of insurance firm HDI Gerling. Architecture: Ingenhoven Architects, Düsseldorf / Germany. Lighting design: Tropp Lighting Design, Weilheim / Germany. 32 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 33

19 Hospitality Boats Hotels, bars and restaurants Spas and wellness architecture Sports facilities Guillaume at Bennelong restaurant in the Sydney Opera House / Australia. Architecture: Jørn Utzon, Copenhagen / Denmark and Dale Jones-Evans, Sydney / Australia (restaurant). Lighting design: Barry Webb Design, Pymble / Australia. Ameron Hotel Speicherstadt, Hamburg / Germany. Architecture: Winking Froh Architekten, Berlin / Germany. Lighting design: team licht, Hamburg / Germany. Parkbad Volksdorf water park, Hamburg / Germany. Architecture: bs2architekten GmbH, Hamburg / Germany. 34 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 35

20 Planning light for gastronomy Hospitality projects today are a testing ground and platform for new ideas, concepts and trends: The promise of exquisite cuisine is underlined by an interior of unique character. Be it design hotels, themed restaurants or temporary bars: Every concept applied to gastronomy requires a scenic frame to carry and communicate the relevant theme. ERCO provides architectural lighting solutions with a diversity of scenographic options for room situations that convey enjoyment and pleasure. 1 How do you create a cosy dinner setting particularly in large rooms with high ceilings? The solution whether you are looking at a factory hall, a former church or a modern concrete cube is accent lighting, precisely targeted to illuminate each table separately from above. Creating light islands gives guests the feeling of privacy, particularly in sizeable restaurant, bar or hotel dining rooms. Whereas the oval flood distribution is a good solution for long tables, spot or narrow spot adds the finishing touch to a romantic setting for two. The ERCO narrow spot 6 distribution, for example, produces an exceptionally narrow beam of powerful LED light for optimum illumination where high ceilings are involved. Warm white light creates a pleasant ambience where efficient glare control is a must, more so still in high rooms, to provide optimum visual comfort without disturbing the customers at the tables. Alternatively, point light sources, suspended from the ceiling, are a good solution to create an atmosphere of privacy. 2 How can light enhance the appeal of freshly prepared dishes? 3 How do you use light to tell a story that communicates the gastronomy concept? You want the visual features in a restaurant to enhance the culinary experience, not to compete with it. This is where architectural lighting comes in, providing a diversity of scenographic options that are subtle and yet effective. In creating zones, the perception of spatial order can be maximised, facilitating general orientation when entering the room, for example by emphasising the bar and the dining area. Just as in the museum, light that contrasts the ambient lighting with a luminance ten times higher is considered particularly pleasant in a gastronomy setting. Vertical illuminance, meanwhile, has a magical quality that creates an inviting atmosphere, and as grazing light, where the luminaires are positioned close to the wall, for example, can emphasise the surface texture and material of walls for a three-dimensional effect. Scenographic light also uses a coherent dramatisation to provide the customer with variable light scenes that set the mood as required. Dimming options and light effects are quick and easy to create using a lighting control system or, alternatively, a simple rotary controller on the luminaire. Halle 32, Gummersbach / Germany. Architecture: Heinrich Böll, Essen / Germany. Lighting design: Lichtwerke, Cologne / Germany. Good food, a pleasant ambience and scintillating conversations are crucial factors for the success of a gastronomic concept and as such define its lighting requirements. Colour rendering is critical for good quality light and can enhance the appeal of food. This requires direct lighting to accentuate each table (see question 1), a simple fact that is often ignored in favour of diffuse lighting, which effectively gives the meals a matt appearance. Our perception of colour is dependent on the colour of the light and of the object, in other words, on the body colour. Tomato soup and red wine, for instance, have a warm body colour that is emphasised by light with high red components, whilst fish looks freshest in light with blue components. Pizzerias often favour a traditional Mediterranean setting with warm white light (3000K), whereas ice cream parlours prefer a cooler ambience using neutral white light (4000K). Food looks exceptionally appetising in the brilliant light of quality lighting tools, creating reflections that give fruit and vegetables a wholesome, fresh appearance and drinks a more intense colour. 4 How can the counter as the primary focal point in a bar or hotel draw in customers with attractive lighting? The lighting concept for counters must manage the balancing act between inviting and eye-catching light for the customers, to facilitate orientation in the bar or hotel, and high visual comfort for staff behind the counter. This balance between glare-free workplaces and evocative counter lighting is achieved by combining vertical illuminance behind the counter with pendant luminaires suspended above. Wallwashing gives the room a spacious and inviting appeal that draws customers inside whilst ensuring efficient visual comfort for work behind the counter especially in a reception area with computer screens. Lighting accents elegantly projected onto the counter give it further prominence. By the same token, the precise light and the pendant luminaires as defining architectural elements segregate the space around and above the counter. 36 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 37

21 Living Care and retirement homes Private residences and apartments Villa Linari, Hamburg / Germany. Architecture: Dibelius Architekten, Hamburg / Germany. Lighting design: Sineplan Ingenieurbüro für Elektrotechnik und Gebäudeleittechnik, Hamburg / Germany; Ingenieurbüro Beyer, Neumünster / Germany. Schnabel residence, Berlin / Germany. Architecture: Ingenbleek Architekten, Berlin / Germany. Carpe Diem Retirement Park, Rommerskirchen / Germany. 38 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 39

22 Planning light for homes Designing the places in which we live deserves our fullest attention, as they mirror our attitude to life and provide a place of refuge from everyday life. When we re at home, we want to be with people we love and value. Working, eating, reading, sleeping, playing, thinking hardly any other place combines such diversity of functions in so small a space as the places in which we live. ERCO lighting solutions bring this flexibility to any situation. Wallwashers and downlights in a compact shape make room to live even in confined spaces. Light scenes combine ambient lighting with striking accents; architectural lighting and decorative luminaires harmonise to create ambient lumi nescence, focal glow and play of brilliants (based on Richard Kelly, see p. 5). Lighting accents from spotlights or direc tional lumi naires, created with a few simple means, underline the character of a private residence: setting off the collector s vase on the side - board or adding a scenic frame to artwork on the wall. Vertical illuminance, on the other hand, achieves an expansive spatial impression. With age especially, light effectively becomes vital; wallwashing combined with accent lighting creates optimum visual conditions in retirement homes, whilst bright and pleas antly illuminated rooms with balanced brightness contrasts convey a sense of security. 1 What should you look for in luminaires for space with more than just one light source? The primary factor, in a nutshell, is consistent light colours with the same chromaticity coordinates, to achieve a tranquil and harmonious ambience in the home whatever the light source above the tables, in shelving and behind the suite. With LEDs just as established for residential applications as elsewhere, it is important here as well to consider new lighting parameters: As with all semiconductor products, LEDs exhibit a degree of production tolerance in areas such as the light colour. By selecting the best possible LEDs, ERCO ensures that its high-power LEDs have a chromaticity variation of less than 2 SDCM (Standard Deviation of Colour Matching), which is currently the highest standard available in the market. The higher the SDCM value, the greater the variation of light colour from the chromaticity coordinates specified in the technical data of the light source. A value of less than 2 SDCM means that any colour deviation between individual LEDs is barely perceptible to the human eye. 3 How can you create a link between living space and out - door area? Gardens and terraces are an important part of our home. A good approach to creating a link between indoor and outdoor areas is to illuminate trees and vegetation using precisely targeted accent light. In the evenings, glazed façades often create a mirrored effect of the inside: looking out becomes challenging, as the glass transparent during the day turns black. This effect can be mitigated with visible elements outside. Vegetation can be illuminated much like a wall, to help delineate space. Moonlighting, for example, adds a natural effect whereby spotlights mounted on façades illuminate the trees and bushes from above, whereas vertical illuminance on hedges brings out the natural texture of the leaves and branches. Good glare control is another aspect to remember, as brightly lit surfaces in the interior result in reflections on glass panes that can obscure the view outside. By the same token, glare can be caused where luminaires in the outdoor area are directed towards the windows especially as our pupils dilate in dim surroundings, making them even more sensitive to glare. Private residence, Dortmund / Germany. Architecture: Heiderich Architekten, Lünen / Germany. Lighting design: LDE Kober, Dortmund / Germany. 2 The kitchen is central to the home serving different functions. What is the best lighting concept to use here? The kitchen is a room where good colour rendering is essential, to ensure that the food looks appetising. Our perception of colour is stimulated by the colour of light as well as that of the object, referred to as the body colour. When the body colour of an object is illuminated with the same colour of light, the result is a more intense colour impression. The orangey yellow body colour of bread rolls, for example, appears richer with more yellow components in the light which explains why bakers generally prefer light in the warm white to orange range, whereas butchers favour red and violet tones for their products. Generally speaking, uniform light is a good option for the kitchen, with focus on the work surfaces. The luminaires are best positioned off-centre above the work surface, to provide the right amount of light without causing glare or hard shadows on the target surface. 4 In what way can light be used to create the impression of space in small rooms? Uniform wallwashing gives small rooms and narrow hallways a higher and more spacious appearance. As well as that, vertical illuminance in private homes achieves sustainable and efficient ambient lighting more effectively than horizontal light of the same connected load, by optimising the spatial impression of brightness. Thanks to the brilliance and uniformity of LED light, wallwashing adds a decorative effect to shelves and, for example, makes book spines easy to read. Wallwashing combined with accent lighting gives the room a structured and tidy feel, whereas bright accents emphasise central elements in the room, such as the reading corner, artwork on the wall or a design icon. 40 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 41

23 Public Bridges Monuments Parks and car parks Public places Imperial Forums, Rome / Italy. Lighting design: Francesca and Vittorio Storaro, Rome / Italy. Photographer: Vittorio Storaro, Rome / Italy. The New York Times Building. Architecture: Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Genova / Paris / New York; FXFowle Architects, New York / USA. Lighting design: OVI Office for Visual Interaction, New York / USA. Esplanade Charles-de- Gaulle, Nîmes / France. Architecture: Atelier Marguerit, Montpellier / France. Lighting design: L.E.A Les Eclairagistes Associés, Lyon / France. 42 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 43

24 Planning light for public places Parks, public places, monuments and façades shape the face of a city at night with their illumination. Their glow provides orientation for various user groups, contributes to safety, enhances spatial details through accentuation, and creates atmosphere. ERCO lighting tools for the outdoor area are designed to define urban space after dark with exceptionally efficient LED light and are optimally shielded to recede unobtrusively into the background. 1 How can façades and architectural elements be illuminated to create eye-catching features? The key is using the right light distribution in a design concept that integrates the illuminated façade into its setting or sets it off in contrast to it. Accentuation of historic façades generally draws attention to features relevant to their architectural era, such as columns or ornamentation, whereas contemporary architecture tends to give focus to the building structure. Modern façade systems are enhanced effectively with dynamic progressions of light, whilst linear grazing light up against the façade brings out the material nature and texture of the wall surface. In a different strategy, vertical illuminance with a uniform light distribution illuminates the façade symmetrically from the ground up to the top edge, emphasising the whole surface as a single unit. This approach achieves a bright spatial impression and brings the wall to the fore in its function as a delineating surface. Regardless of the design concept, however, it is wise to use luminaires with good glare control and precise light distribution to achieve a qualitative lighting design and prevent spill light as a source of light pollution. 3 How can I ensure a long life for luminaires that are frequently exposed to moisture, dirt and stress? The main criterion to consider in selecting outdoor luminaires is to ensure a robust housing offering reliable protection against damage particularly if the luminaire is exposed to frequent moisture and mechanical stress. A good indicator for the longevity of ERCO lighting tools is the high IP rating in addition to the robust design of the luminaires with a highquality, corrosion-resistant special surface coating. A characteristic feature of all ERCO in-ground luminaires, as well as a moistureproof junction box, is advanced capillary protection designed to prevent water penetrating into the housing through pressure compensation when the luminaire cools down. In bollard luminaires, for instance, the LED technology is generally sealed off from the rest of the housing to ensure optimal protection of the luminaire head. In addition, because ERCO lumi naires are offered as a complete system with integrated control gear, they are easy to install even under difficult conditions. 2 What makes a good lighting concept for landscape gardens? 4 What is important to remember when using in-ground luminaires? Weissenhaus Castle Estate Resort and Spa, Weissenhaus / Germany. Interior design: Markus- Diedenhofen Innenarchitektur, Reutlingen and moodworks, Lensahn / Germany. Landscape architecture: MUHS LandschaftsArchitekten, Kiel / Germany. Illuminated greenery attracts the attention of the observer, thereby determining the atmosphere and spatial perception of the exterior. Trees as objects in the wider space become visible from several sides. Light positioned close to the trunk grounds the tree the crown appears to shine from within. The further away the luminaires are placed from the trunk, the more intense the crown seems to be outlined. Moonlighting, in contrast, adds a natural effect whereby spotlights mounted on façades illuminate the trees and bushes from above. Similar to other wall surfaces, hedges and shrubbery are generally good design targets for vertical illuminance, giving the impression of space and depth (see question 1). In-ground luminaires are noticed eye-catchers since the light source is positioned at ground level and the distinctive upward light direction immediately attracts attention. In this respect they also assume some tasks of directive lighting, e.g. by marking pathways or highlighting entrances. In addition to these applications, the luminaires can also provide highly effective architectural lighting, such as for façades. Bearing in mind that in-ground lumi naires obviously are at greater risk of corrosion, the ERCO Tesis in-ground luminaire is made of long fibre reinforced polyamide instead of aluminium because of its optimised material properties, including excellent corrosion resistance and good load bearing capacity. This in-house design has earned ERCO the Metallersatz Award for the most innovative metal replacement solution. 44 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 45

25 Contemplation Churches Mosques Synagogues Temples St Catharine s main church, Hamburg / Germany. Architecture: Helmut Riemann Architekten, Lübeck / Germany. Lighting design: Peter Andres, Beratende Ingenieure für Lichtplanung, Hamburg / Germany. Sheik Zayid Mosque, Abu Dhabi / United Arab Emirates. Architecture: Yusef Abdelki, Syria (design), Halcrow International Partnership, Dubai / United Arab Emirates (execution). Interior design: Spatium Architects, Milan / Italy. Lighting design: Speirs + Major, Edinburgh / Scotland. Siegerland Motorway Church, Wilnsdorf / Germany. Architecture: schneider + schumacher, Frankfurt am Main / Germany. 46 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 47

26 Planning light for sacred buildings The language of light is pan-cultural and more than its use as a way of creating places to enjoy, light in any religion is a distinct symbol of the divine. Light in sacred places creates a contemplative atmosphere for religious meetings. In any place of worship, accentuated light helps to direct the attention to essential things. ERCO illuminates both ancient and modern places of worship using light to produce a separate, timeless language. Light emitted from wall and ceiling washlights enhances the perception of a protective and tranquil environment. Accentuated light helps to direct the attention to essential aspects of the room, such as the altar or other architectural details. Glare-free LED light ensures optimal visual comfort for the congregation and mirrors the quality of the incident daylight. Milan Cathedral, Milan / Italy. Lighting design: Ferrara Palladino e Associati, Milan / Italy. 1 How can light be used effectively to emphasise architectural details? Sacred architecture translates the beliefs and importance of a religion into a physical structure light enhances this message. The dignity of monumental temples can be accentuated with light from tools such as wall and ceiling washlights. Ceiling washlighting also emphasises the protective character of domes and other roofs and gives greater visual prominence to aspects such as ornamentation and wall paintings. Accent lighting is ideal for modelling wall paintings as well as the surface textures of ornamental details, it emphasises religious symbolism, whereas discreetly integrated floor washlights, finally, but impor tantly, add glare-free light that supports the feeling of safety and orientation through to the end of the ceremony. 2 How can light produce a contemplative ambience that focuses attention on the liturgical setting? Light can enhance the liturgy of a religious service by allowing essential aspects of the room as well as protagonists to come to the foreground of attention. A differentiated lighting concept with light shining from different directions at precisely defined illuminance levels creates perceptions of hierarchy without violating the contemplative ambience with excessively harsh light. Using threepoint lighting as the basis, a strong key light as the principal illuminator accentuates a person or an object in the room. Contrasts and shadows are reduced by adding softer and less bright fill-light positioned at 90 angles relative to the key light. Optional backlight that illuminates the subject from behind is useful to highlight contours, whilst additional vertical illuminance strengthens the tranquil and contemplative atmosphere in the room. 3 What are the main challenges in selecting luminaires for sacred places? Every place of worship is unique. Unusual spatial geometries and materials make it necessary to test samples on site. ERCO consultants assist lighting designers in the implementation of individual lighting design concepts with professional advice throughout the project. As well as powerful luminous flux to illuminate spaces that are regularly beyond normal dimensions, and precise light distributions for altars and other liturgical elements, good glare control of the luminaires is an important aspect, particularly as it ensures that prayer and hymn books are easy to read. Vertical illuminance brings walls to the fore in their function as delineating surfaces or, just the opposite, lends them an immaterial quality. Special grazing light wallwashers, on the other hand, emphasise natural stone, wood or concrete and make a feature of unusual surfaces. Finally, and with the goal of giving materials a deeper, richer colour, such elements will need to be illuminated with the same colour of light warm wood tones, for example, are enhanced effectively using warm white light at 3000K, whereas slate requires neutral white light at 4000K for emphasis. 4 What are good luminaires to use so they operate as long as the building they illuminate? LED luminaires are the optimal answer to light for sacred buildings, as the luminaires are often mounted at significant heights that are hard to reach. With extremely low-maintenance requirements, LED options therefore save a significant amount of trouble. The longevity of LED lighting tools is explained by two factors the quality of the LEDs used as well as advanced thermal management. ERCO selects the best high-power LEDs available in the market based on strict criteria and has taken thermal management to a level that ensures efficient illumination with high lumen maintenance over a very long period of time: for up to 50,000 hours, effectively 90% of the LEDs or more still achieve 90% of their original luminous flux (L90/B10). Total failure of an LED in ERCO lighting tools is very rare, at only 0.1% and even with a slightly reduced luminous flux, the luminaire remains fully operational. 48 ERCO Light Factory ERCO Light Factory 49

27 ERCO GmbH Postfach Lüdenscheid Brockhauser Weg Lüdenscheid Germany Tel.: Fax: info@erco.com Art. No EN 12/2015