James Simon Gallery Berlin
Client
Museum Island, Berlin
Project location
Berlin, Germany
Project date
2019
Architect
David Chipperfield Architects
Lighting designer
Alexander Schwarz
The James Simon Gallery: A masterpiece of modern architecture and lighting design
The James-Simon-Galerie, a building on Berlin's Museum Island opened in 2019, was designed by David Chipperfield Architects and is a true masterpiece that unites classical architecture with contemporary design. The gallery not only serves as the entrance to the museums, but also as a central hub with ticket sales, special exhibitions, and dining facilities. This demanding project required a custom lighting solution that highlights the historical ambiance while simultaneously adding modern touches.
The lighting solution: How Zumtobel implemented the objectives of the James-Simon-Galerie
For the James-Simon-Galerie, the lighting design focused on achieving an optimal blend of daylight and artificial light. Zumtobel implemented a custom solution where indirect lighting supplemented the natural light and softly illuminated the building from within during the evening hours. The technical infrastructure also needed to be seamlessly integrated into the architecture – cables and other elements had to disappear into specially designed light and media channels. This precisely attuned lighting solution ensured that the building's clear structure was maintained and that visitors could immerse themselves in an ideal lighting atmosphere.
The products: CIELUMA, ARCOS, and CRAFT – benefits and features
Zumtobel relied on innovative products such as CIELUMA, ARCOS, and CRAFT for lighting the James-Simon-Galerie. The CIELUMA ceiling luminaire, a special luminaire that is part of a Zumtobel Capsule Collection, ensures uniform and harmonious general lighting with its gentle light distribution and pleasant colour temperature of 3800 K. ARCOS LED spots were used in the exhibition rooms and for the exhibits, providing high colour rendering (Ra > 90) and UV- and IR-free light — perfect for preserving delicate artworks. The CRAFT high-bay luminaire, integrated into a light cube of marble panels, highlights the design of the gallery's second level and adds a visual focal point.
Technology and sustainability: Custom lighting solutions and energy-efficient technology.
The lighting solutions employed are based on state-of-the-art LED technology, which not only allows for flexible adjustment of the colour temperature (Tunable White) but is also energy-efficient and sustainable. Zumtobel has also made specific adaptations to the products to satisfy the technical requirements and aesthetic expectations of the building. By using LED technology, power consumption is reduced while ensuring the longevity of lighting solutions - a sustainable solution that meets the modern requirements of the James-Simon-Galerie.
"The James-Simon-Galerie is a prime example of the harmonious integration of architecture and light. Thanks to Zumtobel's tailored lighting solution, the entire room was optimally showcased, meeting both functional requirements and aesthetic expectations. The lighting not only supports the structure of the building, but also ensures a welcoming atmosphere for our international visitors. We are proud to have realized this project with a partner like Zumtobel, whose innovative strength and expertise perfectly complemented our design."
Alexander Schwarz, Design Director, David Chipperfield Architects
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