The Devon & Exeter Institution’s Elegant Lighting Transformation
Stepping into the Devon & Exeter Institution is like entering a portal to a refined past—now made even more vivid by the completion of recent renovations that have been undertaken sensitively and carefully, all thanks to the generous donation made by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This carefully planned upgrade included a bespoke heritage lighting design, expertly crafted by Amos Lighting, a leading provider of custom lighting solutions in Devon.
Their thoughtful lighting scheme has elevated not only the architectural integrity of the Georgian-era institution but also the overall visitor experience. Key areas such as the Blue Room, historic Library, and Green Room have been transformed with lighting that blends historic character with modern efficiency—making this project a prime example of conservation lighting design done well.
The Blue Room: A Study in Balance and Elegance
Among the standout achievements of the renovation is the Blue Room, a space where period-appropriate lighting for heritage interiors takes centre stage. Anchoring this room is the David Hunt Hyde 18-light chandelier, a striking example of classic-meets-contemporary pendant lighting. With cone-shaped shades that provide warm, diffused light, this chandelier not only uplifts the room’s ambiance but also draws attention to the domed ceiling and oculus above - where on darker evenings, a soft circular glow appears thanks to the discreet positioning of LED tape up lighting.
Complementing this central feature is a suite of discreet picture lights, meticulously installed to illuminate the room’s historic portraits. These wall-mounted art lights cast a soft, even glow on framed artwork, enhancing their details while maintaining a comfortable and inviting atmosphere ideal for meetings and small events.
The Library: Task Lighting for Researchers
In the Library, Amos Lighting introduced a series of simple wall lights, placed at regular intervals along the book-lined walls. These fixtures are not only sympathetic to the Georgian setting but also provide ample, focused light for readers and researchers. The result is a space that supports intellectual engagement while respecting the heritage aesthetic—showcasing the benefits of successful integration of modern lighting in historical libraries.
The Staircase: Lighting That Enhances Architectural Flow
The staircase is another highlight of the Devon & Exeter Institution’s lighting upgrade. A classic pendant lantern was chosen for its timeless design, harmonising beautifully with the building’s curved staircase and arched window. Subtle uplighting in the curved niches along the staircase wall adds an additional layer of warmth and depth, softly accentuating the architectural contours. By day, natural light floods the space; by night, the lantern offers a warm, transitional glow that enhances both safety and elegance. This installation demonstrates the impact of staircase lighting in period properties, adding a gentle rhythm to the flow between floors.
The Green Room: Layered Lighting for Peaceful Productivity
For the Green Room, Amos Lighting proposed a cluster pendant light that combines drama with functionality. This striking fixture provides layered illumination, supporting both ambient and task lighting needs. Its soft glow complements the room’s tranquil green tones, contributing to an atmosphere of calm and quiet focus. The result is a harmonious space ideal for reading or study, and a showcase of custom lighting for Georgian interiors.
A Legacy in Light: Preserving Heritage Through Design
More than just decorative, this heritage building lighting project reflects a sophisticated dialogue between tradition and innovation. Through its collaboration with Amos Lighting in Devon, the Devon & Exeter Institution has ensured that each light fixture serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, enhancing the legacy of this historic site for generations to come.
By preserving period features while incorporating modern lighting techniques, this project stands as a shining example of how conservation-focused lighting design can breathe new life into treasured landmarks.
