Reimagining '60s Architecture with LEDs

By RANDY REID

Photo credit: PureEdge Lighting

In the heart of Phoenix, where Central Avenue intersects with Missouri, stands a testament to mid-century modern architecture: the Olympus multifamily dwelling. Built in the 1960s, this structure epitomizes the era’s design aesthetics with its distinctive concrete barrel vaults and exoskeleton that seamlessly flows into the interior of each unit. Yet, while the design remains timeless, the lighting within these spaces required a contemporary upgrade— one that honors the original architecture while infusing modern technology.

Chad Rothe, principal of Lightform Lighting, was approached by Janet Traylor, the HOA president, based on a strong referral. Traylor's dissatisfaction with the standard six-inch flat panel LEDs, installed by a contractor, sparked the transformative journey of the Olympus project's lighting design.

"We aimed to respect the architecture while delivering on modern lighting needs. The in-wall LED solution we implemented was not just about illumination; it was about paying homage to the building's design," Chad shared.

His approach was to employ a brand-new product that would accentuate the building's unique barrel vaults without the need for recessed fixtures, especially important given the arched concrete ceiling. This innovative thinking stemmed from his desire to preserve the essence of the building's design while also enhancing functionality.

"Every LED manufacturer produces LED tape, but what Greg Kay of PureEdge Lighting has created is truly forward-thinking. He calls it a Laser Line, and it resembles a laser beam shooting across the sky," explained Chad.

The ‘laser’ is, in essence, a single COB LED tape that, when powered, creates a line of light akin to a laser beam. The effect is a dramatic, continuous streak of light that can transform a space. Chad’s design did not just stop at aesthetics; functionality was key. The luminaire was fed by remote drivers cleverly housed in the kitchen cabinets, avoiding any exposed wiring and maintaining the sleek appearance.

The design allowed for a dual lighting system with independent controls. Each luminaire was installed with separate drivers allowing for direct or indirect operation. Both the upper and the lower system offer 120-degree beam angles for a very uniform appearance.

Chad's lighting design incorporated the use of the Lutron ELV Diva Reverse-Phase dimmer, which he selected for its cost-effectiveness and ability to manage both direct and indirect lighting sources. "The Lutron dimmer system provides a straightforward and affordable solution for adjusting light levels," Chad remarked. In his personal office, Chad prefers the advanced capabilities of the PureEdge Wiz system for its added functionality in color control. However, for the Olympus project, the lighting scheme was standardized at a color temperature of 3000 Kelvin, negating the need for color control and thus making the Lutron ELV Diva ReversePhase dimmer a suitable choice.

TRANSFORMING SPACES WITH STRATEGIC LIGHTING

In multi-family buildings like Olympus, lighting plays a pivotal role in transforming communal spaces. Chad’s work on this project underlines the significance of lighting as a design element that extends beyond mere functionality—it narrates the story of the space it inhabits.

In our discussion, it appeared that the lit part of the arch was a different color, but Chad assured me everything was painted the same shade of white. "You don't just see the lighting; you feel its impact. It goes beyond illumination; it's about creating an experience," he emphasized.

With a CRI of over 90 and a lifespan of 50,000 hours, the PureEdge solution offered not only an aesthetic enhancement but also longevity and sustainability. As Chad aptly put it, "It's not just about the fixtures; it's about how you use them to bring a space to life."