Our aim for the lighting was two-fold: to create a comfortable, relaxed and functional lighting solution for the owners, and to honour the architecture such that the lighting becomes part of the built fabric – expressing the bold geometry, natural colours and raw textures. We wanted to create a feeling of luminosity that appears to flow naturally without feeling forced or intruding. We believe the outcomes confirm our goals – a beautiful result which keeps it real for the client day-to-day.
From the initial briefing, it became clear that collaboration would be the key to this lighting solution’s success. The lighting concept would not only present a challenging task technically, but our goal to do so without infringing on the architecture meant almost every aspect of the delivery of illumination would require thoughtful and coordinated integration. Almost every luminaire has been carefully planned to be as inconspicuous as possible, if not entirely invisible, to the point it feels like it is part of the building. Our drawing set included no less than 60 detailed drawings defining our expectations. These details were the result of numerous workshops with the architect and builder to ensure understanding from all parties. From concrete cast-in details to double-routed trim-seating, every light element has been craftily integrated and carefully placed for precision illumination.
The result has been described as natural, organic, minimal and sensitive, yet is a genuine example of the effort, creativity and technical skill necessary to make something appear so simple. Every luminaire (100% LED) was tested for colour temperature consistency (2700K) to ensure the materials would present as true. Every detail mocked up to proof the absence of shadowing or source imaging. Almost every luminaire would require a new and innovative method of installation and cable reticulation. Even standard luminaires were customised to best suit the application. A number of bespoke luminaires were designed and fabricated for the project, including a wall light which mimics the form of the structure. Understanding the architecture and how to apply illumination to capture the geometry was our biggest feat.
Our clients are a delightfully warm and welcoming couple. This is their first house designed from scratch. The Farm is essentially their retreat property, designed as a weekender for family and friends, so it had to be all about the human experience. This design utilises DALI controls throughout, with an intuitive user interface which allow 3 simple settings per space. The layering approach of direct and indirect illumination enables a number of moods to be created with the push of a button, while multiple pinspot sources direct light to only where it is required.
