A project for the illumination of the Brussels Central Station, a listed building designed by Victor Horta and inaugurated in 1952.
The lighting concept selected the most characteristic and visible elements of the building from urban perspectives, and to magnify the glass wall over the entrance, which had been designed from the outset as a beacon radiating towards the city.
We therefore subtly revealed the crown that encircles the top of the building, emphasised the pilasters of the 2 acute angles and lit certain relevant recesses. The light sources integrated into the canopies and the station's illuminated lettering were replaced by custom-made LED profiles carefully fitted into the original housings and elements.
The glass wall, lit from inside, received special attention to ensure that the light diffused as effectively as possible over the translucent sails, which were also chosen following an on-site test. The linear lighting is positioned precisely in relation to the curtains and can be programmed to change colour independently in sections of 40cm. This installation makes it possible to create animations in the glass wall, which vary according to weekdays or weekends and special events throughout the year.
