PRESERVING THE PAST, ILLUMINATING THE FUTURE

The Zumtobel Group lighting brands Thorn and Zumtobel and contractor Lytestream devised a comprehensive lighting solution for Darlington Library that seamlessly blended 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 later extension in 1933, the library holds significant architectural and cultural value, reflected in its Grade II listed status and location within the Darlington Town Centre Conservation Area. The recent refurbishment and restoration of the library have aimed 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 objective of the restoration project was to preserve the library's function as a vital delivery point for Darlington's central library service, including the Centre for Local Studies 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 lighting challenge

For the lighting, the main challenge was to offer a scheme that did not visually interfere with the building's architectural appearance while providing visual interest and functionality.

A colourful, controlled solution

Zumtobel Group, through contractor Lytestream, provided a comprehensive lighting solution tailored to the unique needs of Darlington Library. The specified products included Zumtobel's TECTON, SLOTLIGHT, SLOTLIGHT round, and LITECOM, alongside Thorn’s luminaires Ceasar, Contrast RGBW, Piazza, Blade RGBW, Katona, Poppack, Aquaforce MWS, and IQ Wave suspended.

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

Spotlight on key areas

In the Centre for Local Studies, lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of the space. By improving the lighting, visitors have a conducive environment for researching and studying, creating a productive and comfortable atmosphere.

Furthermore, the lighting highlights the fine details of the decorative ceiling, allowing visitors to appreciate the architectural elements that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.

The art gallery

The high-ceilinged Gallery is a truly remarkable space that leaves visitors in awe with its intricate and distinctive plasterwork and detailed paintwork. Inside the Gallery, carefully designed functional and feature lighting incorporating Zumtobel VIVO spotlights play a crucial role in showcasing the ever-changing art exhibitions.

The Children's library

Themed around an enchanted woodland, the children's library creates a magical and inviting atmosphere that captures the imagination of both children and adults alike. The feature lighting is a thoughtful addition that enhances the ambience and provides a sensory experience for visitors. The lighting changes create different moods and atmospheres, making the space even more enchanting and immersive for children and adults alike.

Energy efficient, flexibility for the future

The new lighting solution offered numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, flexibility for future changes, complete lighting control, and colour selection in specific areas like the children's library and Dovecot area on the roof. Efficient archives control was also achieved, enhancing functionality while preserving the building's historical integrity.

Suzy Hill, Library Manager, Services Group, Darlington Borough Council, comments, "Zumtobel Group's lighting solution for Darlington Library have successfully balanced preserving heritage with embracing modernity, creating a vibrant and functional space for the community. The project exemplifies a commitment to preserving historical and cultural legacies while embracing progress and innovation. Darlington Library remains a cherished institution, offering a modern library service while serving as a beacon of history and heritage within the community."

Take a closer look at the finished refurbishment and the lighting solutions installed in Darlington https://youtu.be/PmIhGm9JXhQ Darlington Borough Council’s video or learn more on the Zumtobel Lighting products please visit the website https://z.lighting/en/zumtobel/ or for Thorn Lighting products: www.thornlighting.co.uk.

Products

Zumtobel

TECTON

SLOTLIGHT

VIVO

LITECOM

Thorn lighting

Ceasar

Contrast RGBW

Piazza

Blade RGBW

Katona

Poppack

Aquaforce MWS