ENLIGHTENED
NORTHERN LIGHTS Issue 14
Contents Foreword
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A word from our Directors Frances Conlon and John Fleming.
A Symphony of Lights
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Bespoke lighting installation for The Gate leisure complex in Newcastle.
Working With
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Mark Tallent from MTIS talks about working with us on the colour changing feature for The Gate.
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Bespoke light fittings for Chancery House a seaman’s refuge in the late 19th century. It has recently been converted into a residential and retail complex.
Est 1987
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This year is the 30th Anniversary of Northern Lights. We reflect on our exciting journey at this important milestone as well as looking to the future.
Taste of Peru
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How the stunning Aurelia chandelier helps to create a vibrant Latin American vibe for Coya, an exclusive Peruvian restaurant in the City.
Finishing Touches
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A behind the scenes look at the processes to develop our bespoke finishes.
American Dream
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The bespoke lighting scheme for Hickory’s Smokehouse, a Southern-inspired American BBQ restaurant.
Lighting for an Icon
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Foreword Welcome to the 14th edition of Enlightened. As this magazine went to print, it was exactly 30 years since Northern Lights started life in a small business unit just outside Sheffield. You will find the central theme in this issue is the celebration of 30 years of creative lighting. We still vividly remember that sense of excitement when we started the venture. 30 years on we are proud of what we have achieved. As a company we have worked with many talented designers and architects, delivering bespoke lighting solutions to many prestigious projects around the world. We have built an excellent team and expanded our factory to be one of the most comprehensive in the industry. In addition, we have also developed our own exclusive range of products, reflecting the changing interior trends and latest lighting technology. It has been a fantastic journey. We are now embarking on the next chapter of the Northern Lights’ story with confidence and with the same determination as 30 years ago. Over the years Northern Lights has built a reputation for developing large-scale bespoke installations. The Gate project is a fine example. Incorporating more than 10 large ring pendants and several glass chandeliers, lighting features don’t come much bigger than this! The project was a great team effort from the many parties involved, including the client, the architects, the lighting consultants and the building specialists. In the ‘Working With’ section Mark Tallent from MTIS reveals some interesting behind the scenes stories of how we delivered the LED colour changing function together for the project. We were delighted to have our exquisitely designed Aurelia chandeliers specified as feature pendants for Coya, an exclusive Peruvian restaurant in the City. As with many other projects, the fittings were modified in our factory to meet the specific requirements of the interior designers. This issue also includes two quite different projects - Chancery House, a converted seaman’s refuge which features striking oversized geometric chandeliers finished by a natural weathering process. In contrast, Hickory’s Smokehouse, an authentic Deep South inspired BBQ restaurant, uses an eclectic range of bespoke fittings, many of which incorporate quirky elements such as vintage American car licence plates. These articles highlight the wide spectrum of projects on which we work. Finally, November is the month of the Sleep Event. Our talented creative and design teams have once again prepared a fantastic range of new products showcasing our manufacturing capabilities. Hope to see you all there. Kind regards Frances Conlon and John Fleming Directors Northern Lights 3
The Gate A Symphony of Lights
The Gate, Newcastle’s premier leisure and entertainment centre, has recently completed a multi-million pound refurbishment. At the heart of the transformation, designed by Faulkner Browns, are the main entrance lobby and the triple height circulation area. The rings and glass installation create a spectacular focal point for the building’s multitude of exciting entertainment operations and a strong sense of destination to the eight million people who visit annually.
delight visitors inside the venue enticing people to explore the multitude of operations within. Northern Lights were approached by Faulkner Browns to work closely in collaboration with the other members of the design team to create a truly unique and bold statement feature. Working from the initial design brief and what turned out to be an inspirational image provided by Faulkner Browns’ John Kemp, several concept options were proposed and very quickly a preferred design was chosen.
The client, The Crown Estates, required a spectacular centrepiece taking advantage of the full height glazed elevation fronting Newgate Street. This would impress and
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The selected design incorporated a cluster of 12 giant LED illuminated rings and cascading glass suspended under a highly polished stainless steel canopy. This feature would be installed in a dominant central position over the main escalators. The illuminated rings range from 1250mm to 4500mm in diameter and are constructed from mild steel panels with acrylic diffusers. The metal work was finished in an elegant grey with a contrasting trim in polished brass adding a luxurious touch. Suspended by thin wires from the ceiling plate, the rings appear to be floating effortlessly between the floors of the complex. Each of the rings can be illuminated by the internal LED, either individually or collectively, and can be colour changed and cross faded from one ring to another.
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Completing the installation are over 4,000 champagne tinted elliptical ‘bubble’ glass decorations which produce a beautiful illusion of light. They create everything from a subtle sense of opulence to a more vibrant atmosphere of celebration. Crucial to the successful development and delivery of the design was the collaboration between Neil Skinner of SKR Lighting Design who was responsible for the entire lighting scheme and Mark Tallent who programmed all of the lighting controls. Working with the Northern Lights team, Neil and Mark were instrumental in developing the combination of lighting effects that make this feature uniquely flexible with regard to the number of scenes and permutations that can be programmed and selected.
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Working with Mark Tallent from MTIS talks about working with us to deliver the colour changing feature for The Gate project MTIS are integrated building technology specialists. We work closely with clients to deliver smart technology solutions within the building environment. On The Gate, taking the project brief from Neil Skinner of SKR Lighting Design, the person responsible for the entire lighting scheme, our role was to design and implement a cohesive lighting control system. The large-scale lighting feature with bespoke rings and glass chandeliers in the entrance lobby was a major part of the project. This breathtaking design utilised the latest LED illumination and it also incorporated a state-of-the-art colour-changing programme which produces numerous colour combinations to suit the different occasions from a James Bond movie night to a rugby match celebration.
With the fitting weighing in at 3.5 tonnes and situated next to a huge floor-to-ceiling glass wall, spanning over two floors, I knew from the start that this was going to be an exciting challenge. We worked closely with the client, the architects, Neil and Northern Lights from the early stages of the project. As the people who were responsible for realising the final design intent and desired lighting effect, Northern Lights very often became the bridge between the architects, the interior designers and technical people like us. They had a good grasp of the technical brief and went above and beyond expectations to meet the requirements. For example, a key challenge of the project was how and where to house the LED drivers. Due to the exceptional size of the installation and its proximity to the glass wall, the standard method would be intrusive and affect the overall aesthetics of the feature. Northern Lights developed a group of customised trays to house the drivers, which could be neatly installed in the building structure. The trays also feature a bespoke finish to complement the building interior.
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Another innovation we worked on together was the back-up LED strips installed in the floating rings. They can be switched on once the main strips stop working. It will greatly extend the life span of the installation. For a complex project such as this, good management and communication is just as important as design development. Natalie Shakesheff, the Senior Lighting Designer from Northern Lights, was exceptionally organised. Always clear about where we were during the process and what needed to be done to achieve each target she was well prepared for every project meeting and had a focus on the critical issues needing to be addressed. This was particularly helpful to deliver such a large project on time. Northern Lights also sent a team of electricians to assist with the installation company, CAN UK. Natalie oversaw the installation process to ensure all the components were assembled correctly on site. In order not to disrupt the businesses within the complex, work was undertaken after the businesses were closed until the early hours of the morning. There were a few long nights, but the result is certainly worth it. Lighting is one of the few elements in the building that can combine stylish design and technology together. We have seen more and more lighting control programming and smart technology integrated into modern buildings whether they be hospitality, residential or commercial. It has been extremely helpful to work with a company who are expert in the areas of both interior spaces and lighting technology. We look forward to working with Northern Lights again.
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Chancery House Lighting for an Icon
With its striking Flemish Gothic style architecture and city centre location, Chancery House has been a landmark building in Liverpool for over 100 years. Originally built as a seaman’s refuge in the late 19th century, it has recently been converted into a residential and retail complex.
finishes installed throughout the new development. The designers wanted something eye-catching for the entrance and lobby area so they approached Northern Lights with a brief to develop a group of geometric sculptural chandeliers.
The designers from Falconer Chester Hall took a sensitive and sympathetic approach to the refurbishment. Many original features have been enhanced to form a complementary backdrop to the modern high specification finishes installed throughout the new development.
We explored several options, taking into consideration the design intent, the technical and production feasibility as well as the budget requirement. The final installation featured three dimensional laser-cut panels lacquered after a naturally weathered finish.
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Measuring more than 4 metres wide, the largest chandelier comprises of five panels. The smaller ones above the staircase are 1.5 metres wide with two panels. The sleek linear patterns have a modern post-industrial aesthetic whilst the rusted finish highlights the unique maritime heritage of the building.
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The panels were carefully arranged in tiered levels, hanging from the high ceiling thus creating a dramatic sculptural presence. LED lamps were strategically placed in-between the panels with the wiring concealed in the metalwork.
Since the completion of the refurbishment, Chancery House has become one of the most sought after addresses in Liverpool. Welcoming both residents and visitors in the lobby, the chandeliers create not only an enduring first impression, but also instantly remind everyone of the proud history and rich heritage of this unique building.
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Celebrating Creative 16
g 30 Years of e Lighting 17
THIS YEAR IS THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS. In 1987, encouraged by an emerging boom in the pub refurbishment market, John Fleming and Frances Conlon started making stained glass shades and panels for pubs from a factory unit near Sheffield with a small artisan team. 30 years on, Northern Lights operates from a 38,000 sq ft. factory in Chesterfield with comprehensive manufacturing facilities including a laser-processing centre. A team of more than 90 people are dedicated to turning imaginative ideas and concepts into creative and functional lighting solutions. Every day hundreds of fittings from large chandeliers to bedside table lamps are fabricated by our skilled metalworkers. Finished in powder coat, paint or various antique patinas, they are then wired and finally despatched to a diverse customer base. We have worked on thousands of projects across five continents for a client list including Premier Inn, Costa Coffee, Hilton, Marriott, Park Regis, Jamie’s Italian, Dirty Martini, KuPP and Debenhams.
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We have developed great working relationships with the interior design practices who have used us over the last 30 years. Together we have stretched the imagination and pushed the limits of what can be achieved. We want to say ‘Thank You’ for giving us the opportunity to develop amazing fittings and for being part of so many schemes that have brought pleasure to people around the world. Not only do we have a loyal and dedicated workforce, we also have established partnerships with many suppliers both at home and abroad. We have grown together and are proud of the community we have built. Since we started many things have changed and some radically: the aesthetics, the market, the technology. We have also evolved from being a stained-glass specialist into one of the leading contract lighting suppliers in the UK with a renowned bespoke service supported by a range of purposely-designed standard products. However, one thing remains constant - our commitment to work with our clients to explore the best possible solutions for each project, then help them realise these ideas through design, manufacturing and great customer service. This has been our focus for the last three decades and it will continue to be so for many more to come. 19
30 Years of Design and Manufacturing From the first stained glass shade we ever made to the latest bespoke installations, design and manufacture have always been key to how we provide a genuine bespoke service to our customers who trust us to turn their vision and creativity into reality. Manufacturing is the foundation of our business. From the very beginning we have been committed to the continuous development of our in-house manufacturing capabilities. Today, occupying an area of more than 38,000 sq ft, we have one of the largest bespoke lighting factories in the UK with a team of more than 60 skilled workers. Their expertise ranges from glass and shade production to metalwork as well as providing a wide range of finishes. We have invested heavily in machinery including powder coating facilities and a CNC router. The latest addition is a laser cutting machine which gives us the ability to produce different designs and to improve our lead times. On the design side, our first dedicated lighting designer, Michael Jackson, joined the company in the early 2000s. Today he leads a team of three young, energetic designers who are supported by two technical draughtsmen. Combining natural talent and years of experience with the latest design software, the team transforms the most inspiring ideas into feasible lighting designs and comes up with the most efficient manufacturing methods.
In 2016 Donna Gridley joined the company as Head of Creative. Previously the Design Director at Heathfield & Co, she has brought a new dimension to our design ethos. In addition to our project-based bespoke service, we are also taking a more active approach in developing exclusive and inspiring standard product ranges. Donna’s signature luxe elegant style is definitely thought-provoking and her latest collection has already been specified for some high profile projects. With the support of Michael’s design team and our factory, Donna is able to develop more unique designs. The new standard products can also be modified in terms of dimensions and finishes to suit different projects.
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30 Years of Customer Service In the early days of the company, our Director John Fleming used to visit customers in his car with a boot full of brochures and samples. Every customer was hard-won. Today meeting customer requirements is still our priority. 30 years on we still have the same can-do attitude. The difference is that we now have a team of business development managers and a dedicated internal sales team covering most of the UK. Led by our Head of Sales, Donna Bruce, who started working for Northern Lights when she was 16, the sales teams work with our clients from conception to completion every step of the way. Whether it is to explore different options to meet budget requirements, to streamline the project process to meet tight delivery schedules or to try and achieve a late design revision, we always go that extra mile to find a solution. It is hard to know exactly how many light fittings we have manufactured and how many projects we have delivered over the last three decades. However it is as fascinating as ever to see raw materials go through the manufacturing processes and then be turned into something special - and often spectacular.
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The Journey Continues With the rise of destination hotels and restaurants, there is more and more demand for personalised spaces in commercial interior design and bespoke lighting is high on this agenda. We are very excited by the opportunities ahead. With an ambitious investment and training plan, we are confident that we are well prepared to take on any challenges to deliver inspiring, innovative and cost-effective solutions for our clients to meet the demands of the digital age. As we reflect on our journey at this important milestone, we’d like to quote a famous athlete “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.� We are the people who make it happen. We look forward to the next 30 years.
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Coya A Taste of Peru
Following its highly successful first venture in Mayfair, the Peruvian restaurant Coya opened its second UK venue in The City. Designed by Sagrada, the interior features a rich variety of vivid colours and striking patterns. Electric blues contrast with mustard golds and washed-out walls to create a striking backdrop for the eclectic Peruvian inspired cuisine. Gold chairs inject a vibrant note with pink and purple striped cushions accessorising the welcoming and cosy interior.
The Aurelia chandelier from Northern Lights’ most recent collection was specified for the main dining area. Our designers and production teams worked closely with the interior designers to modify both the sizes and finishes to complement the overall scheme and specially sourced furniture.
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2 metres in diameter, the chandelier is suspended directly above the only round table in the restaurant. This is where customers can enjoy a unique Rum Round Table experience. The flowing lines of Aurelia complement perfectly the exquisite hard-carved table with attendant wooden thrones. The substantial size immediately draws the customer’s attention to the area, creating a real sense of occasion. The warm ambient light is further enhanced by the tinted smoke glass balls, adding a subtle feeling of romance to the beautifully presented dishes and drinks. A bespoke antique finish was developed by our creative team to suit the interior scheme. Two smaller Aurelia chandeliers were installed in the private dining area and a bespoke organic three-tier chandelier is featured in the banqueting alcove. The three-tier chandelier showcases not only our versatility and skill in developing new finishes but also the flexibility our laser cutter gives us with new designs. We also supplied wall lights to the opulent restrooms. These feature a single tear-drop glass with a brass backplate in antique. The elegant shape and impeccable finish show how simple shapes can make a strong impact.
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Finishing Touches A behind the scene look at the process to develop the bespoke finishes.
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The facility to offer an amazing range of finishes from powder coat and paint to patina and metal leaf surface decorations has always given us an advantage and point of difference over other lighting companies. With a range of over 50 standard finishes and the ability to develop more bespoke finishes if the project demands we are confident we can offer solutions for every eventuality. For Donna Gridley, our Head of Creative, the finishing area was one of the main attractions that led her to join us last year and since then she has spent some productive time learning what we can offer and imparting the knowledge she has gained over the years when developing her own finishes. Over the last year Donna has created many new finishes for her own ranges and also to offer customers for their own projects and ideas. Working mostly with the patinating acids and a selection of art paints she has introduced some stunning and timeless finishes to our already comprehensive range.
Here we preview a small selection of what is possible on brass and steel. From antiqued and tarnished finishes on brass to the more organic reactive finishes achievable on both brass and steel we are sure we have or can create a finish to suit every requirement.
We can also offer these finishes on products other than lighting – we have worked on various projects over the last few years producing everything from decorative panelling, mirror frames, sculptural installations and inlays to furniture.
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Hickory’s Smokehouse The American Dream
Hickory’s Smokehouse is a Southern-inspired American BBQ restaurant chain. With its own pit and smoke master in every restaurant, the brand has established an enviable reputation for providing authentic sumptuous soul food in the true Deep South style. Following on from five highly successful restaurants, the latest venue opened in Castle Bromwich.
Continuing our collaboration with Keane Brands, we once again supplied an eclectic range of light fittings for the venue. Many bespoke features were developed to enhance the unique atmosphere. Filament lamps were used to generate an inviting and relaxing ambiant. A standout feature is the two-tier pendant made from recycled bicycle wheels and old American car license plates. Using bike rims as frames decorated with number plates from the various states with their quirky branding, the pendant creates a feeling of nostalgic adventure.
Using warm colours with layers of different textures, accentuated by quirky accessories throughout the venue, brand and interior consultancy Keane Brands created a place full of character and charm with unexpected twists.
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The pendant is suspended by chunky metal chains in a bespoke rustic finish and completed with antique lamp holders. The filament lamps create a warm vintage glow. In the centre of a giant canopy in the dining area is a large bespoke pendant combining a metal frame with exquisite stained-glass panels and detailing which was made in our factory using traditional stained glass methods. The glass panels are illuminated from the inside, casting beautiful light spillage and patterns. Twelve squirrel cage filament lamps were installed around the outside frame, adding a contemporary industrial style against a background dominated by vintage wallpaper, Chesterfield sofas and dark wooden flooring. Contrasting with the stained-glass windows, a group of ribbed glass shades was suspended from a rectangular metal frame in blackened steel which again injects a modern element to the interior. Outside on the terrace the minimalist swag lights help create a laid-back vibe typical in the Southern States. To complement the dynamic and vibrant interior, the lighting scheme also incorporates many other pendants in a range of styles and an eclectic mix of table lamps and wall lights.
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NORTHERN LIGHTS UNLIMITED LIGHTING
Issue 14 Contact Hardwick View Road, Holmewood Industrial Est, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 5SA
sales@northern-lights.co.uk www.northern-lights.co.uk +44 01246 858750
Photography Jill Tate Michael Franke Stewart Jones Hannah Tindale
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Editorial Judy Zhou Donna Gridley Frances Conlon Graphic Design Hannah Tindale
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If you do not wish to receive further issues of this magazine please email: hannah@northern-lights.co.uk E & OE Disclaimer Statement: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information herein, Northern Lights cannot be held responsible for any errors and omissions
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NORTHERN LIGHTS Issue 14