2023 IES Illumination Award Winner

We had the privilege of working with The 712 Initiative and Alley Poyner Macchietto Architects (APMA) to revitalize an essential historic building at a prominent downtown intersection in Council Bluffs, IA. The building was acquired by a nonprofit organization looking to revitalize the building for community housing, along with a strict budget. Since the building is considered historic, numerous design iterations with the State Historical Preservation Office were presented to propose a modern lighting solution that did not degrade the historical integrity of the 165-year-old building.

The lighting concept needed to emphasize the features of the historical façade. Solid masonry walls, up to 2.5′ thick in some areas, presented opportunities to enhance textured forms while limiting access to conceal pathways to luminaires. Adjustable luminaires with narrow 9×9-degree optics and a warm CCT of 3000k allowed for precision aiming while highlighting the brick characteristics. The symmetrical lighting layout provided a rhythmic approach that not only helped accent the façade, but provided uniform lighting along the walkways and paths of egress around the building perimeter.

Local energy codes demanded energy efficiency and control strategies be implemented in addition to the tasks already at hand. As a result, LED luminaires were strategically selected with small form factors for energy conservation and glare reduction. Exterior lighting was controlled by a central lighting control system that consisted of a combination of an exterior photocell allowed for “automatic on” operation automatically at dusk while the astronomical timeclock allowed for “automatic off” at a specific evening time mandated by the energy code and city lighting ordinance.

In summary, a drastic experience can be seen from the before and after photos provided within this submission. A once bustling street corner with a historical buliding presence, defamed overtime by renovations and neglect, has been restored into an inviting and awe-inspiring view historically relevant to the area.