More details from A.C. Special Projects (http://www.acspecialprojects.com):
BIRMINGHAM, UK – A.C. Special Projects (ACSP) Ltd. have provided an elegant new carbon-conscious lighting installation at St Peter’s Church in Hall Green, Birmingham.
ACSP were approached directly by St. Peter’s Vicar, Reverend Martin Stephenson, to design and specify new lighting for the attractive octagon-shaped Church.
Positioned each side of the nave are six ‘carpet’ windows with spectacular stained glass depicting ancient prayer mats hung in drafty churches, swinging in the wind. These were designed by Tristan Ruhlmann from Alsace, France, along with the impressive East Window, occupying the entire east wall of the building.
The carpet windows were previously lit by an old spot-light system that was constantly blowing lamps and proving difficult to maintain.
ACSP’s Project Manager Lance Bromhead visited the space to assess and demonstrate a selection of products. Working closely with David Scard, Chair of St Peter’s maintenance team, and Roger Hill Clerk of Works, Lance devised a custom solution to fulfil their specific needs, while staying within their budget.
Anytronics were commissioned to make special versions of their Anycolour 4-way dimmable fluorescent batten, complete with bespoke warm white and ‘candlelight yellow’ deep-dyed polycarbonate over-sleeves.
The Anycolours are located in the base of the window bays, so the light grazes up the windows. The relief of the window surround is highlighted, in an attractive frame effect, enhancing the overall room ambience.
The units use high efficiency recyclable fluorescent light sources (energy group A) with digitally controlled high frequency ballasts for a long lifetime, providing “a perfect, flexible and cost effective solution,” explains Bromhead.
The Anycolours are driven via an Anytronics interface box controlled by an Anyscene 7, pre-programmed with a selection of scenes / looks for different times of the day and services / activities.
This installation has more than halved the power consumption of the previous lighting scheme.
ACSP also designed and installed new lighting allowing the magnificent East Window behind the altar and pulpit to be appreciated after dark.
Five Hunza IP66 water resistant 35W metal halide fittings are attached to special brackets mounted on the exterior wall above the windows. These were chosen for their brightness, power efficiency, practicality, long life and low maintenance.
They produce a transcendental glow through the windows inside, and are also controlled through the Anyscene 7 and programmed into some of its presets.
St Peter’s David Scard says, “The advice we received from Lance and his colleagues, the demonstrations and careful explanations of alternatives, what they offered and how efficient they would be was impressive. The installation went smoothly and the reception given to our new system by our congregations reflects a most successful operation.”
