Hilton
Location
Washington, D.C
Type
Hotel
Square Footage
640,000 sq. ft
Completion Year
2018
The Hilton sought a lighting installation that not only complemented its elegant lobby space but also resonated with the natural aesthetics of the nearby waterfront. The goal was to create a visually striking feature that would embody the fluidity and movement of the water, enhancing the overall ambiance of the hotel environment.
In collaboration with Spike Lighting, who led the design, Tirso Lighting took on the role of consulting on the project, manufacturing the custom light sources, and overseeing the commissioning of the system. The installation features an array of luminescent spheres suspended in a wave-like pattern, mimicking the ebb and flow of the tides at The Wharf. The design leverages cutting-edge lighting technology to create a dynamic, cascading effect that breathes life into the space.
Behind the Scenes
The assembly of custom light spheres and their alignment was carried out by a team of skilled technicians. Each light fixture, including the specialized LED boards, underwent rigorous tests to ensure optimal performance and durability. The installation involved precise positioning using scaffolding, emphasizing safety and precision. Additionally, the project’s extensive wiring and the configuration of electrical enclosures were critical for powering and controlling the elegant display, highlighting the technical expertise involved in bringing such a creative vision to life. This behind-the-scenes effort underscores the complexity and dedication behind creating an aesthetically pleasing yet functional lighting installation.
LED Wave Chandelier
The design of the spheres suspended in a wave-like pattern in the Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf is a stunning visual representation of the hotel’s proximity to the waterfront. The installation mimics the gentle undulations and rhythmic movements of water, embodying the fluid dynamics of waves. This creative concept not only adds an artistic touch to the space but also serves to connect the interior environment with the natural elements outside.
Each sphere is strategically placed to contribute to the overall wave pattern, creating a sense of movement and flow that draws the eye across the room. The varying sizes and the gradual transition of colors enhance this dynamic effect, giving the illusion of waves cresting and falling. The lighting technology behind these spheres allows for changes in intensity and color, further mimicking the natural light reflections you would see on water. This installation not only serves as a striking focal point but also integrates art with advanced lighting technology to create a serene and inviting atmosphere within the hotel lobby.
Technical Challenges and Solutions:
One of the significant challenges was integrating the complex lighting design with the existing architectural elements without disrupting the hotel’s operations. This was achieved through careful planning and the use of specialized installation techniques that allowed for minimal intrusion into the daily activities of the hotel.
Tirso Lighting provided extensive technical support onsite, making multiple visits to both the hotel and Spike Lighting’s headquarters in El Monte, CA. These visits were crucial for testing and fine-tuning the installation to ensure that the lighting performed seamlessly and according to the project’s high standards. Demonstrations were also performed to showcase the capabilities of the lighting system to the end customer, ensuring their complete satisfaction with the dynamic visual effects.
The Outcome
The installation has been met with acclaim from both the client and hotel guests, praised for its artistic merit and the ambiance it adds to the Hilton’s lobby. The lighting installation not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the hotel but also serves as a testament to the innovative capabilities of Tirso Lighting and Spike Lighting in transforming a space through light.
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