Library Darlington
Client
Darlington Borough Council
Project location
Darlington, United Kingdom
Project date
2023
Historical landmark in a new light: Darlington Library renovation
The Darlington Library, originally constructed in 1885 and expanded in 1933, is a listed building located in the heart of the city. As part of an extensive refurbishment, the objective was to preserve the historical heritage while integrating modern functionality. The focus was on both preserving the architectural distinctiveness and implementing an innovative lighting concept. The Zumtobel Group worked with electrical installer Lytestream to develop an intelligent lighting solution that combines energy efficiency, aesthetics, and technological innovation.
Lighting solution with finesse: technology meets tradition
The goal of the lighting design was to respect the historical spaces while simultaneously creating a modern user experience. The greatest challenge was to seamlessly integrate modern lighting technology into the existing architecture. The solution: a flexible, centrally controlled lighting solution with individual customisation based on room function. Whether for art galleries, reading rooms, children's libraries, or archives – each zone received its own lighting concept that merges functionality with ambiance while simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency.
Zumtobel and Thorn create lighting worlds with system and emotion.
Throughout the building, selected luminaires were used from brands Zumtobel and Thorn. Highlights include the TECTON continuous-row system for simple integration and control, SLOTLIGHT and SLOTLIGHT round for linear lighting design, and VIVO spots for precise accentuation. In sensitive areas like the archive, sensor-operated luminaires such as Aquaforce MWS provide automated lighting control. The children's library is transformed into a fairy-tale adventure world by colour-dynamic RGBW lights - a true highlight for both young and old visitors.
LITECOM provides efficiency, flexibility, and future-proof lighting solutions.
In addition to the uppgraded design, the topic of sustainability also played a central role. The LITECOM lighting management system provides maximum energy savings and allows for flexible adaptation to future requirements. Whether daylight-dependent control, motion sensors, or zone-specific colour adjustment – the system offers maximum functionality while maintaining low power consumption. This makes the Darlington Library a lighthouse project not only architecturally, but also technologically.
The Zumtobel Group's lighting solution for the Darlington Library impressively bridges the gap between heritage conservation and modernity. The result is a vibrant, functional place for the community that preserves history while setting new benchmarks in comfort and design.
Suzy Hill, Head of the Library, Darlington Borough Council
Individual lighting control for any situation
Discover our highlights, where innovation and practice meet to create groundbreaking solutions. Uncover the fascinating stories behind our most successful projects and be inspired by the results.