The rise in innovative lighting technologies is pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in hospitality interiors, both aesthetically and in terms of energy efficiency. Ian Drinkwater, Managing Director of Applelec explores how the latest developments and trends are changing the face of lighting…
It’s no secret that bespoke interior design is the key to success in the hotel industry, with many outlets utilising innovative and unique room design to attract guests and create a ‘Wow factor’ throughout their stay. Many outlets have now turned to technological innovations to upgrade interiors and satisfy changing customer needs.
Lighting is fundamental component in any hotel, not only is it responsible for creating a comforting and relaxing atmosphere the moment a guest enters your hotel, but bad lighting can make décor and furniture look less appealing. Designers are constantly on the lookout for advancements in lighting, which can deliver on these requirements and refresh hotel interiors.
The introduction of OLED technology has revolutionised lighting design, opening up exciting possibilities for interior designers working in the hospitality industry.
An OLED approach
Due to its flexibility and versality, OLED lighting technology has become a popular option, with many hospitality interior designers choosing to install the technology in a variety of lighting applications to deliver eye catching results.
One of the most distinctive features is that the light produced by an OLED module is noticeably softer, closely resembling natural day light with virtually no glare, therefore it is perfect for creating a relaxing and cosy atmosphere, for instance in guest bedrooms.
Research has shown that daylight has a positive effect on human health, and in addition can increase comfort when installed in a specific outlet. Although, designers try and make use of natural daylight where possible, it’s not always achievable for a number of different reasons. This is where OLED come into its own, with the ability to replicate daylight with virtually no glare, it is the perfect substitute.
What’s more – due to having no backlight – OLEDs are much slimmer than traditional LEDs, a flexibility which enables OLED technology to be embedded in furniture, walls and textiles – redefining what can be achieved with hotel lighting design.
Aside from delivering on versality and flexibility, OLED modules are also extremely energy efficient. Unlike regular LEDs which block the pixel shutter when switched off, OLEDs turn off the modules completely, meaning they consume no power whatsoever when switched off – enabling hospitality managers to make impressive savings.
The VIP choice
With bespoke and unique features, it should come as no surprise that OLED technology has already been utilised in luxury facilities, incorporated into the design of stunning sculptural light installations.
An example of this is ‘The Ribbon’, which was created by lighting artist Min Sang Cho and makes full use of the innovative capabilities of OLED, with bespoke modules supplied by Applelec. The stunning installation was unveiled at London Design Festival, before relocating to its permanent home in the VIP reception of the Genting Highland Casino in Malaysia.
The installation was 3D printed and then manipulated by hand into an intricate and unique shape, before finishing touches were applied, such as 24-carat gold lead paint to each piece of the ribbon to emphasise the soft light from the OLED modules. Furthermore, the entire design is remarkably low power, using a mere 9W per unit to run effectively.
The distinctive features of OLED technology have captured the attention of interior designers far and wide, with many choosing to harness the technology to create stunning lighting displays in a range of hospitality outlets, including high-class and boutique hotels.
Applelec is a trade supplier and manufacturer of signs, displays and lighting, based in Bradford, West Yorkshire. They recently launched their innovative range of lighting modules which utilise OLED technology, revolutionising lighting design: www.applelec.co.uk.
