In the bustling heart of Center City Philadelphia, where innovation meets excitement, one of the USA’s largest radio broadcasters embarked on a transformative journey. Their relocation from the suburbs to a vibrant urban location was more than just a change of address; it was a quest for a space that embodied their dynamic spirit. This is where our story begins, a tale of design, drama, and the artistry of light.
As lighting designers, we understand that every space tells a story – using light, a narrative is woven into the architecture with threads of color, texture, and ambiance. Our design at the Audacy (formerly Entercom) corporate headquarters and studio stands as a testament to our dynamic lighting design expertise. The experience begins as you pass through a portal of white light and into the high energy, choreographed, and elaborately controlled panoramic equalizer made up of color dynamic light bars reacting to the rocking music audible throughout. This choreography is governed by an infrastructure of 48 DMX universes and a custom software back-end. As the music is interpreted by the system, light bars and colors simultaneously pulse creating a compelling upbeat welcome.
Sound reactive, color-changing strips oscillating to create a larger than life equalizer waveform
This narrative should be reinforced with a consistent design theory tying architecture to its occupants and inspiration. In this case study that motif is transmission. An echoing line geometry portrays the radio transmission throughout 14,000 sf of 5 unique open office layouts and 9 unique conference rooms. Each space is lighted appropriately for its function while reinforcing the theme. While color changing light can be used to drive up energy levels in casual spaces, it would be disastrous in a space dedicated to concentration and productivity. Therefore, business operation spaces maintain the geometric ques but receive a softer, calmer light quality. Indirect white light encourages productivity throughout the corporate offices.
Radiating dynamic lines of light declare Audacy’s foothold in the ever changing broadcast market
Every detail is crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and delight. Multiple iterations were evaluated, and mock-ups were created to demonstrate the validity of each special effect. Equalizer walls and twinkling luminaire arrays, lighted memorabilia showcase boxes and architecturally integrated luminaire installation is all scrutinized for its contribution to the magic of the total experience.
Dynamic Lighting Systems are shaping experiences, fostering well-being, and inspiring creativity. At BEAM, we continue to push the boundaries of architectural lighting design, redefining how spaces interact with light and influence the lives of those who inhabit them.
Small venue concert space with decorative sparkle lighting to evoke the traditional large venue lighter tribute
While our work at Audacy illustrates our dexterity in creating dynamic lighting design, our prowess extends beyond the extravagant and well into the world of the familiar. Whether the project is a home, a restaurant, or a public space, our principles remain the same: design with passion, understand the emotions, and be perceptive.
In the end, it is not just about illuminating spaces – it’s about illuminating lives. Let’s create something spectacular together and contribute delight to the world around us.