Concept
The T&G building is home to blue-chip businesses, high end boutiques, world-class bars and award-winning restaurants. Located at the Paris End of Collins Street, its surrounding laneways remain one of Melbourne’s most dynamic commercial and entertainment precincts.
Electrolight was engaged by Pembroke for lighting design services to 161 Collins St lobby and external canopy/ façade. Bates Smart’s architectural design was to introduce a new pedestrian plane throughout the building to provide sightlines through the lobby space, to Flinders St and Federation Square beyond.
A unique panelised ceiling treatment was extended throughout central path of travel throughout the building to create continuous experience through the heart of the space. The grand, central atrium was a main focal point to strengthen the connection to the outside and provide a unique experience, or moment of respite.
This lighting was to celebrate the unique character and identity of the landmark. The lighting treatment was to further strengthen the exterior to interior relationship, as well as bring visual recognition to the unique character of the prestigious site.
Solution
The brief called for multiple layers of light to highlight the unique textural material choices of the architecture and provide a sophisticated, bespoke feel to the interiors.
The panellised ceiling system that extends from the exterior to the interior soffit provided us with an opportunity to integrate a system of linear adjustable trimless downlights (by iGuzzini) housed within, to create a central path of travel with precision, while concealing all light fittings from view.
Light was directed towards vertical surfaces and visual features where possible to create a visually rich, layered and textural environment. Upon entry, the heroes of the entrance space: the ornamental screens and artworks – are highlighted using discreet, semi recessed adjustable spotlights.
A feature was made of the highly textural brick to lift core, by integrating layers of linear uplights – that also provide a sense of grounding within the atrium space.
Bespoke, high end, detailed feature lighting elements, such as the pendant over the reception, were conceived (and fabricated by Darkon) to be delicate in nature, but grand in scale to provide visual impact within the generous interior space.
Warm, decorative lights and integrated lighting within joinery pieces help delineate the atrium. This place of meeting, or respite, creates a strong connection to the outside and one which is ever changing and dynamic in nature through the interaction with lighting.
Filled with an abundance of natural light and visual connection to the outdoors during the daylight hours, the atrium continually transforms over the afternoon and evening hours; bringing focus to warm, low level, light sources, experienced on a more intimate scale.
The challenge was to use a number of techniques that would provide a sense of fluidity throughout the transition of spaces, while providing unique, bespoke moments that elevate the experience of the individual user.
Architects: Bates Smart Architects
Client: Prembroke
