Project won a prize of 100% of the tuition fee of the academic year for Master in Interaction Design and Immersive Experiences, Barcelona

My Prompt

You are a light design expert.

I would like a light design project for an event in a medieval castle. The purpose of the project is to give a scenographic value to the space for tourism reasons. I would like a project that respects environmental rules and is sustainable with less electricity consumption.

Ai Tools: ChatGPT4, DALL-E

Light Design for a Medieval Castle Event

A Sustainable and Scenic Approach

1. Project Scope

This light design project aims to transform a medieval castle into a visually stunning attraction for touristic events, enhancing its architectural beauty while preserving its historical essence. The design will be developed following principles of sustainability, low-energy consumption, and minimal environmental impact.

2. Lighting Concept & Design Strategy

2.1. Key Objectives

  • Enhance the castle’s historical charm while maintaining an authentic medieval atmosphere.
  • Create a dynamic visual experience using warm, inviting tones and subtle contrasts.
  • Ensure sustainability by using energy-efficient lighting solutions and minimizing light pollution.
  • Adapt to different event needs, allowing for flexibility in intensity and color.

2.2. Sustainable Lighting Approach

  • LED Technology: High-efficiency, low-energy LEDs with dimmable features.
  • Solar-Powered Fixtures: Where possible, integrating solar lighting for exterior paths.
  • Motion and Time-Based Control Systems: Automatic adjustments to reduce unnecessary power use.
  • Low-Impact Light Placement: Avoiding direct projection on natural elements to protect nocturnal wildlife.

3. Light Zones & Techniques

3.1. Exterior Illumination (Enhancing the Castle’s Facade)

  • Wall Washing: Soft, uniform light across stone walls to highlight textures.
  • Grazing Light: Placed at the base of walls to create dramatic shadow effects.
  • Projection Mapping (Optional): Interactive or historical-themed projections.

3.2. Courtyard & Main Event Space

  • Warm White Overhead Lighting: Creating an inviting atmosphere.
  • Soft Uplighting on Arches and Columns: Adding depth and accentuating architecture.
  • Lantern-Inspired Fixtures: Evoking medieval aesthetics while using modern energy-efficient bulbs.

3.3. Pathways & Entrance Areas

  • Low-Intensity Ground Lighting: Guiding visitors without excessive brightness.
  • Smart Step Lighting: Enhancing safety while reducing unnecessary energy use.

3.4. Interior Illumination (If Used for Tours or Dinners)

  • Candlelight Simulation LED Fixtures: Maintaining medieval ambiance with safe, energy-efficient alternatives.
  • Accent Lighting for Artifacts: Enhancing historical features without heat emission.

4. Expected Outcomes

  • A visually striking nighttime atmosphere that enhances the castle’s appeal for tourism.
  • A low-energy, sustainable lighting solution aligned with environmental regulations.
  • A flexible lighting system adaptable for different events and seasons.
  • Minimal ecological disturbance with reduced light pollution and wildlife-friendly design.