Kempinski - High Tatra

Fascinating light concept for award-winning Grand Hotel

Light is magic. Light can enchant. Anyone who has ever visited the High Tatra knows why it is impossible to resist the appeal of the shimmering sunsets, why it inevitably pulls you into its spell. To illuminate the renovated Grand Hotel Kempinski, an outdoor lighting concept was selected that has proven its ability to fit into this special setting.

The general refurbishment of the former spa hotel with a history spanning more than 100 years lasted three years. Peter Cerno of the Munich-based Cerno Architects put a lot of passion into the project while keeping it moving forward. The reward for applying lots of creativity and corresponding funds:  The building complex not only fascinates guests with its exclusive appearance, but was also distinguished with two awards last year during Slovakia’s “2009 Building of the Year” architectural design competition. The successful outdoor illumination played a part in contributing to the distinction.

The sensitive lighting concept was developed by TRILUX. “First, we prepared a detailed 3D computer model as a basis for our work,” recalls Sabine Brunner, head of Project Light Solutions, where creativity is in great demand. Together with the architect, we determined the individual positions of the approx. two hundred Lumena 150 spotlights. In order to achieve the best possible result, there was lots of discussions revolving around the architectural factors, light design and formal aesthetic aspects.

In the end, all participants decided in favour of a vertical accentuation of the impressive architecture. The Lumena spotlights possess a relatively narrow 10° angle of emission and illuminate the façade both from below and from above.