Lighting brands Thorn and Zumtobel from the Zumtobel Group and contractor Lytestream have created a comprehensive lighting solution for Darlington Library that seamlessly blends heritage preservation with modern functionality.

Darlington Library, originally known as the Edward Pease Free Library, is a testament to the town’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Built in 1885 with a subsequent extension in 1933, the library has significant architectural and cultural value, reflected in its Grade II listed status and location within the Darlington Town Centre Conservation Area. Recent renovation and restoration work on the library aims to preserve its historical significance while incorporating modern elements to meet the needs of contemporary library users.

Modern lighting to enhance and celebrate.

The primary aim of the restoration project was to maintain the library’s function as a vital link for Darlington’s central library service, including the Local Studies Centre and Art Gallery. The project sought to enhance and celebrate the building’s heritage features while incorporating modern amenities, such as lighting, to ensure its relevance in the 21st century.

The main challenge of lighting

For lighting, the main challenge was to provide a scheme that did not visually interfere with the architectural appearance of the building while providing visual interest and function.

Colorful and compact solution

Zumtobel Group, through contractor Lytestream, provided a comprehensive lighting solution specifically designed to meet the unique needs of Darlington Library. Products specified included TECTON, SLOTLIGHT, SLOTLIGHT round and LITECOM from Zumtobel, along with Ceasar, Contrast RGBW, Piazza, Blade RGBW, Katona, Poppack, Aquaforce MWS and IQ Wave pendant lights from Thorn.

TECTON has provided a quick-install solution with minimal wiring requirements, ideal for providing lighting controls. SLOTLIGHT, SLOTLIGHT round and VIVO are seamlessly integrated into the building design, while Thorn’s Aquaforce sensor versions provide automated lighting solutions for the archive area, all controlled by Zumtobel’s LITECOM system.

Focus on key areas

In the Local Studies Center, lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the space. By improving lighting, visitors enjoy an environment conducive to research and study, creating a productive and comfortable atmosphere.

Furthermore, the lighting highlights the fine details of the decorative ceiling, allowing visitors to appreciate architectural elements they might not have otherwise noticed.

Art Gallery

The high-ceilinged gallery is a truly impressive space that leaves visitors in awe of the intricate and distinctive plasterwork and detailed painting. Inside the gallery, carefully designed functional and distinctive lighting including Zumtobel VIVO lights plays a crucial role in displaying the ever-changing art exhibitions.

Children’s Library

The Children’s Library features an enchanted forest-inspired design, creating a magical and inviting atmosphere that captures the imagination of children and adults alike. The accent lighting is a thoughtful addition that enhances the ambiance and provides a sensory experience for visitors. The lighting changes create different moods and atmospheres, making the space more magical and exciting for children and adults alike.

Energy efficiency, future flexibility

The new lighting solution offered many benefits, including energy efficiency, flexibility to accommodate future changes, full control of lighting, and choice of colours in specific areas such as the children’s library and the Dovecot rooftop area. Effective archival control was also achieved, enhancing functionality while preserving the building’s historic integrity.

Commenting, Susie Hill, Library Manager, Services Group, Darlington City Council, said: “The lighting solutions provided by Zumtobel Group for Darlington Library have successfully balanced heritage preservation with modernity, creating a vibrant and functional space for the community. The project embodies a commitment to preserving historical and cultural heritage while embracing progress and innovation. Darlington Library remains a cherished institution, providing a modern library service while acting as a beacon of history and heritage within the community.”

Take a closer look at the finished refurbishment works and lighting solutions installed in Darlington https://youtu.be/PmIhGm9JXhQ Darlington City Council video Or to find out more about Zumtobel Lighting products, please visit https://z.lighting/en/zumtobel/ or for Thorn Lighting products: www.thornlighting.co.uk.

products

Zumtobel

Tecton

Slot Light

Vivo

Lightcom

Lighting the thorns

Caesar

RGBW Contrast

yard

RGBW code

Katona

Bob Back

Aquaforce MWS

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