The impact of the right lighting on architectural spaces cannot be overstated. Adequate lighting is essential for creating an environment that fosters productivity and comfort. It can be the difference between a room that is too bright to the point of being distracting or too dim to see clearly in front of you. Like acoustic attenuation, proper lighting should never be an afterthought when designing commercial projects.
At Arktura, we pride ourselves on our growing collection of lighting systems, from our standalone LumAngle™ pendants to lighting accessories like backlighting for our panel systems. However, there may be instances where these options do not suit your architectural project. Whether it’s working around existing lighting or incorporating specific fixtures from a third party, there are numerous ways to integrate our systems with your lighting choices.
“CBRE Metropointe” Denver, CO, AECOM.
This presents a range of creative solutions for blending our acoustic and perforated metal panel systems harmoniously with your chosen lighting. By carefully considering both elements, you can achieve a cohesive design that meets aesthetic and functional requirements.
Our acoustic and perforated ceiling panels seamlessly blend with your existing or preferred third-party lighting solutions. You don’t have to compromise your design vision to achieve optimal acoustics. Below are some previous projects that marry stylish lighting with our acoustic and perforated metal panel systems.
“National Museum of African American Music” Nashville, TN, Donna Gilliam Interiors, Photo by Wronski Photography.
The wave-like movement of these Atmosphera® Analog 3D baffles ties into the museum’s “Rivers of Rhythm” exhibition. The colorful third-party lighting installed throughout this expansive system further exemplifies these soft undulations. Minimalist pendant lights complement these linear fixtures to provide ambient lighting throughout the lobby.
“University of Memphis” Memphis, TN, Aaron Patrick Architects.
The Liberty Bowl locker rooms at the University of Memphis received the Arktura treatment with a series of Vapor® Trail panels. These linear perforations create an intriguing path for your eyes to follow as the design spans from the ceiling down to the walls below. This project features backlighting by others, allowing clients to control the overall final look of their space.
“Nextjump Headquarters” New York, NY, M Moser Associates. Photo by Mike Van Tassell.
Adding a touch of modern sophistication to this SoftSpan® trellis system, the client for this project utilized spherical pendant lights. Suspended from varying heights creates a staggering effect for this recreational space featuring high ceilings. The open grid nature of SoftSpan® allows the lights to hang within the modules.
“SCU – Sobrato Campus” Santa Clara, CA, ZGF Architects. Photo courtesy of Armstrong World Industries.
The perforated designs of our metal panel systems contain striking geometric, abstract, and linear patterns to showcase the client’s design intent. But sometimes, the openness of the design allows the building’s architecture to be the star of the show. This university campus features white Vapor® Cluster Dense panels that enable the third-party lighting to shine through and show off the bright orange paint behind the panels.
“North Bend Elementary” Humble, TX, PBK Architects. Photo courtesy of Armstrong World Industries.
Lighting doesn’t just have to be functional; it can become a part of your space’s decor in creative ways. This colorful space for North Bend Elementary School in Humble, TX, boasts a two-tone colorful Atmosphera® acoustic baffle system. To go with the desert theme, the linear pendant lights act as sun rays radiating from the mock sun.
“Bell Bank City Center” Minneapolis, MN, Nelson. Photo by Corey Gaffer.
Lighting works at different levels and layers within your space’s decor. Third-party fixtures don’t have to remain flush with the ceiling or recessed. These mid-century modern lights drop down below the SoftSpan® creating a layered, staggered visual display. The trellis-style baffles also feature infill panels to create more immersive acoustic coverage.
“Liberty Market” Gilbert, AZ, House of Form. Photo by Kevin Brost.
A minimalist’s dream decor, these streamlined SoundEdge® baffles are paired with a simple mid-century modern pendant. No frills or extras are needed here; the pendants drop between the baffles, allowing the two design elements to live harmoniously in this space. These modular single-fin designs, available in various lengths and depths, are easy to install and can be mixed and matched in numerous configurations.
“Travel Leaders” New York, NY, TPG Architecture. Photo by Studio B.
Instead of having to layer lighting above or below your acoustic systems, why not make them a part of your acoustic clouds. These SoundStar® modules, found in the New York offices of Travel Leaders, feature a modern take on the classic lightbulb suspended through the geometric acoustic modules. SoundStar® modules are field trimmable and can adapt to any installation condition.
“VMC Sales Center” Toronto, ON, The Design Agency, Menkes Developments Ltd
This project features both Arktura acoustic baffle systems and perforated metal panels paired together in a creative layout for this sales/showroom. To complement the unique finish of these Vapor® Cluster Sparse panels, the client went with a minimalist lighting cluster. The ambient lights radiate off the panels above to create a warm and inviting glow.
Designing with Light and Sound for Optimal Experience
The harmonious integration of lighting and acoustic systems is crucial for creating engaging and functional architectural spaces. By thoughtfully blending these elements, you can elevate the aesthetic appeal while ensuring optimal acoustic performance. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist look or a vibrant, playful atmosphere, our tailored solutions can help you achieve your vision, even when using lighting by others.
Ready to transform your space? Contact a rep today to get started on your next project and discover how we can bring your design ideas to life!
North Bend Elementary in Humble, Texas, is not your typical school. When designing and constructing this space, it was important to the clients that this be a special place where…
Read more