Northern Lights – creating dramatic dreamscapes with immersive lighting

Bespoke lighting experts at Northern Lights, explore behind-the-scenes prototypes and captivating lighting solutions that transform spaces into magical experiences…

light design by Studio Two Interiors creating an immersive ‘dreamscape cloud’ installation for Somewhere by Nico

In hospitality design, lighting serves as the silent yet powerful narrator that defines the emotional essence of a space. From intimate dining experiences to luxurious hotel lobbies, Northern Lights works with designers developing unique lighting solutions key to creating environments that evoke emotional responses to leave lasting impressions.

light installation in Somewhere by Nico Stevie Campbell

Image credit: Stevie Campbell / Northern Lights

Dreamscape clouds
Moody, sensual lighting that balances shadows and light builds depth and intrigue. Northern Lights collaborated with award-winning Studio Two Interiors to create an immersive ‘dreamscape cloud’ installation for Somewhere by Nico. This vision required careful execution, including the right mix of materials, techniques, and strategic lighting temperatures and placements. This vision required careful execution, including the right mix of materials, techniques, and strategic lighting temperatures and placements.

The designs were realized through 3D design models, prototyping, and precise production drawings. Prototyping is critical in transforming conceptual designs into functional fixtures that enhance the ambiance and aesthetics of a space. The installation, crafted in Northern Lights’ Derbyshire facility, involved experimenting with materials, shapes, and technologies to achieve the desired effect.

Creating an organic, cloud-like form to fill the purpose-built ceiling void required an intricate approach. Delicately shaped, individual mesh panels formed a moody, dramatic visual treat, while track spotlights provided ambient light without disrupting the artistic design, transforming a beautiful space into an extraordinary, sensory experience.

The Warwick Wing Theatre at Heythrop Park Hotel, designed by DesignLSM

Image credit: Stevie Campbell / Northern Lights

Theatrical immersion
Lighting can also enhance a sense of theatrics, especially in venues with purpose-built live theatres. The Warwick Wing Theatre at Heythrop Park Hotel, designed by DesignLSM, adds striking decadence to the hotel’s evening offerings. The space comes alive with dazzling arched lights that emit a warm glow, while the main theatre pendant, a 4.4-meter-wide fixture with over 100 bulbs on 18 arms, transports guests back to nostalgic Hollywood glamour and contrasts against the darkness of the theatre’s high ceiling. This bold fixture increases the sense of drama, anticipation and excitement, making it a key player in the overall design narrative.

the Commons Club at Virgin Hotel Glasgow

Image credit: Gunner Gu / Northern Lights

Dancing with light
On the Mezzanine level of the Commons Club at Virgin Hotel Glasgow, contrasting materials and clever lighting create the illusion of ‘dancing’ figures. Northern Lights collaborated with Four-by-Two and Artin Light to produce a large domed ceiling light with intricately carved steel patterns, inspired by murals from local artist Meig Sutherland. Subtle, expressive figures appear to dance above, adding an intimate and eccentric vibe, while cherry red fringing inside the dome adds tactility when viewed from below.

Through close collaboration with bespoke lighting experts, designers can ensure that every project tells a compelling story; one that is charged with emotive response, sensory appeal, and a sense of wonder.

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Main image Credit: Stevie Campbell / Northern Lights