SAINT-ETIENNE, France – A 31-meter-high observation tower built from more than four kilometers of steel tubes linked by star-shaped joints is a visual standout for the "Cité du Design" (Centre International du Design), a new institution for communication, research and education in design. The project, situated on the site of the former National Arms Manufactory, stands out even more from its industrial environs thanks to the installation of 1,082 Pixel Drop LED fixtures from D.T.S. Illuminazione s.r.l.
The fixtures are installed in a geometric pattern, not only on the structure's surface but in parallel layers within the structure itself. Each of the fixtures house three 1-watt white P4 LEDs, rated at 6000°K.
The observation tower is part of a larger urban renewal effort that involves the restoration of historical buildings, gardens, the Place d'Armes (a large public esplanade) and a new building (the Platine).
Funding is provided through the Saint-Étienne Métropole, with the assistance of the European Community, the National Government, the Rhône-Alpes Region and the Département de la Loire.
Finn GEIPEL (LIN Architects, Urbanists, Berlin), the tower's designers, worked with the lighting system design firm, ETTEC – ESL and lighting installers INEO Reseaux Sud Est Ets Dousson.
Along with its standout visual presence, the tower will allow visitors to see the area from an elevated perspective. There is a 100-square-meter platform at the top, accessible via an elevator and two staircases, that offers panoramic view of Saint-Etienne and the surrounding hills.
The tower's designers envisioned the structure as a large source of 3D imagery, and the LED fixtures have been aligned in a geometric array. The LEDs can be individually controlled via 26 Z60 power supplies and controllers, guided by Madrix software.
A wide array of moving images can be generated, and the tower can also be used to display information. As a new landmark for Saint-Etienne, the tower is also a trademark visual for Cité du Design itself.
For more information, please visit www.dts-architectural.it.
