Uplighting BFI Southbank to put on a colourful show

BFI Southbank recently undertook a renovation project for their NFT1 cinema area.  The brief included wall downlights, floor uplighters, lighting and control recommendations, for the illuminated oculus in the cinema foyer.

Our engineering team prepared various prototypes for onsite trials. These included our white IP Neon and Bright Green cloud control system. RGB pixel lighting was also recommended for its ability to offer dynamic colour variations.

We were also asked to investigate a replacement for the end-of-life uplighters which are currently failing, producing a very low light output.  Any changes to these are hugely constrained by the buildings existing hole diameters and cable runs.

Uplighting

Our recommendation was to supply a more powerful luminaire with house POB (power on board) which is heavily customised. Given the limited sizing of the cable runs a hybrid option where both power & data would run through a single cable offered flexibility for future expansion projects.

To address site-specific challenges:

• Custom Faceplates: to secure the uplighters to the floor from the front, eliminating installation difficulties.
• Custom Lens Design: reduces glare when viewed directly, ensuring safety for visitors.
• Tilted internally: the optical engine was tilted by 17 degrees ensuring maximum wall coverage at all heights and further glare reduction.
• Hybrid cabling: power & shielded data run are combined in a single cable.

Oculus feature

The illuminated oculus feature was specified with RGB lighting however the limitless options with RGBW secured its upgrade. Bright Green Dual bend RGBW with moulded rear exit cables, allowed linking between neon lengths for a homogenous glow. The oculus lighting was divided into three segments, each independently controllable for tailored lighting effects.

Control system & integration

Our team of experts designed a bespoke prewired control system for an efficient site installation. This included a custom multi panel button plate for onsite control, a subscription to our Bright Green cloud portal that allows for a virtual touch screen with individual access to a range of venue managers.  The system provides advanced remote management and can also be operated onsite via a wall-mounted plate.

Our sister company, BGC, powered the uplighters using PXS led drivers, while LTECH’s LM150G4K3 were utilised for the oculus. The DMX (RDM) system configured all fixtures on the network, and we sourced specialised DMX cabling, including dual cables for the ceiling, to fit within the building’s existing cable tunnels and constraints.

Project summary

The result is a beautifully illuminated space that works seamlessly within the architectural limitations. We recommend you go and visit to see this amazing space!