Inspired by a flock of birds, Frank Tjepkema — the lighting designer responsible for De Zwerm — combined 728 steel elements and 1,456 individually controlled LED nodes to create a unique lighting display that has become an instant landmark in Eindhoven.
De Zwerm, which means “the swarm,” features a sophisticated interplay between direct and indirect lighting: carefully positioned light from inside each “bird” shines into the next one in a way that optimizes reflection in a smooth transitional movement. This creates an area of light rather than a spotlight, never shining directly into the eyes of drivers.
The optical illusion of the flock of birds is a great example of how lighting and technology can combine impressively.
Each “bird” is outfitted with two Color Kinetics iColor Flex LMX gen2 LED nodes that instantly change color and brightness. The dynamic lighting display changes depending on temperature and traffic flow. In warmer seasons, drivers see reds and oranges while colder weather brings blues and greens. Interact Landmark connected lighting software enables easy monitoring, management and control of the installation. It works seamlessly with Color Kinetics fixtures and the Philips BaseLogic lighting system.
Inside the tunnel, the focus is more on driver comfort and safety. The underpass interior is equipped with Philips BaseLogic system. A photometer on the outside of the underpass records light levels and adjusts the output of the luminaires inside to ensure drivers can see in front of them safely and comfortably.
The Bund, Shanghai, China
The transformation of the Bund, Shanghai, was Signify’s largest ever implementation of connected architectural lighting.
Illuminating London's bridges for the world’s longest public art commission
Featuring artwork by world-renowned lighting artist Leo Villareal, the Illuminated River Project will become the longest public art installation in the world once complete.