Architects are increasingly highlighting the importance of light in building design, turning this element into an essential part of their projects. For Steensen Varming, long-time practitioners in engineering services and sustainable designs that enhance spatial perception, this ethos has been a consideration for nearly a century.

When done properly, light can play a pivotal role in architecture and can profoundly influence how we perceive and experience a space. For architects, it is not only essential to consider light during the planning stages but to also design its integration with the structure’s curves, angles and dimensions. This includes selecting the right type of lighting and determining how colours and textures will interact to evoke the desired atmosphere of a project.

In the eyes of the Steensen Varming cohort, light is integral to life and a powerful means of communication. It can shape our perception of the world, influence wellbeing, spark inspiration and elicit emotions beyond our control. Their passion for light stems from its profound connection to human existence. From landscape and architectural spaces to artworks and interior settings, light plays a key role in realising a unique vision for all who experience it.

Founded in Copenhagen in 1933, Steensen Varming specialises in mechanical and electrical engineering, lighting design and sustainable design. The company opened its first Australian office in 1973, 16 years after landing the commission to work on the Sydney Opera House with Jørn Utzon.

Since the mid-century, Steensen Varming has continued to maintain a close relationship with the Sydney Opera House, creating aesthetic, functional and efficient uses of lighting with a commitment to optimal design and technical perfection. Over the years, the building service consultancy has been involved in various renovations and design projects for the Opera House, including the lighting masterplan endorsed by Utzon before his death, and most recently, the Concert Hall refurbishment.

Shedding light on a structural icon

The lighting masterplan, updated in collaboration with Johnson Pilton Walker in 2005, ensures the Sydney Opera House is presented as originally intended. The lighting masterplan was curated to achieve effects and sensations on the ceramic tiles in their neutral tone with multiple light sources positioned to showcase the building’s unique geometry.

In 2023, Steensen Varming’s 90th anniversary and 50 years of practice in Australia aligned with the 50th anniversary of the Sydney Opera House. That milestone cemented their shared history of innovation and collaboration, highlighting Steensen Varming’s dedication to the Opera House and its continued preservation and progression.

Award-winning public space

Recipient of the IESANZ NSW Lighting Award of Excellence 2023, Steensen Varming’s project, Taronga Zoo Nocturnal House, was an opportunity to showcase some of Australia’s most elusive nocturnal creatures in a controlled setting. In order to capture the fauna in a complementary yet unobtrusive context, lighting considerations were crucial —not only for maintaining animal welfare but also for creating an engaging visitor experience that elevates Indigenous storytelling.

The project challenged the lighting design team to create an immersive environment by simulating reversed day and night cycles, seasonal changes and photoperiods that affect animal biocycles. The result is a dramatic and realistic night-time atmosphere for both visitors and the resident animals.

Steensen Varming says their designers worked closely with zookeepers to carefully adjust the spotlights’ aiming, lensing and intensity, taking into account the animals’ visual fields to minimise disruption to their foraging, nesting and breeding. This collaboration resulted in a world-first, custom reverse circadian function within the Bluetooth control system, which supports animal welfare and meets the facility’s operational needs. The daylight simulation is programmed to end at a consistent ‘wake-up’ time for the animals, allowing zookeepers to carry out their tasks safely before the public arrives.

This blend of nocturnal wildlife and Indigenous storytelling offers a cathartic experience. As visitors wander through lush forests and the gentle light of dawn, leaf projections on the floor remind visitors of the land they share with the featured wildlife. The adventure is aurally highlighted with the calming sound of flowing water represented by the serene illumination of the platypus pools and riverbanks.

Artistic shadow play

In 2019, Steensen Varming designed and implemented the lighting for the Jameel Prize 5 exhibition, which honours contemporary artists and designers inspired by Islamic art, craft and design. The lighting scheme was curated to spotlight each installation’s unique form and texture through a thoughtful interplay of light and shadow. While natural light has long been used as a fundamental element of interior design and architecture, new technologies with artificial light now play a part in creating specific sensations in closed spaces.

A key consideration of the design was to balance the individual needs of each artist’s work while ensuring the exhibition presented a cohesive experience. Challenges were addressed by utilising existing lighting stock to minimise costs and incorporating new technology with existing equipment. The result was a harmonious lighting setup that integrated cooler tones with the plinth barriers while enhancing the warmer hues of the dimmed spotlights.

Jørn’s magnum opus

The Utzon Centre, gracefully poised on Denmark’s Aalborg waterfront, stands as a masterpiece that celebrates Utzon. As a child growing up in Aalborg, Utzon played by the Limfjord, the shallow sea inlet, and regularly adventured through the Aalborg shipyard with his friends. In full circle from their collaboration on the Sydney Opera House, Utzon Center chose Steensen Varming to bring this building to life in Aalborg’s nightscape.

Through the lens of Utzon’s original vision and intention, Steensen Varming masterfully illuminated the centre’s dramatic trio of roof forms. The glowing structures rise from the mystery of the unlit base of the building, appearing to float like a cloud formation at the water’s edge. This diaphanous illumination now serves as a landmark beacon during the long winter months.

With a rich portfolio of successful projects, Steensen Varming has established itself as a leading and highly acclaimed building services consultancy. Their work is built on a foundation of visionary architects, bold clients and innovative thinking. Operating across four continents, the consultancy offers unparalleled expertise in lighting design and sustainability, blending form with function and art with technology.

Images supplied.

 Learn more about architectural lighting considerations in public spaces.