DRK Lighting recently played a crucial role in the luminaire transformation of WSP’s head office at 70 Chancery Lane. DRK Lighting collaborated with WSP, who are the global leaders in sustainable design solutions to deliver a state-of-the-art workspace that showcases cutting-edge lighting technology, sustainability, and employee well-being. As the lead lighting supplier, DRK contributed to the ambitious retrofit by providing various lighting products that helped elevate the design and functionality of the office. The project, spearheaded by WSP’s Sacha Abizadeh and Armando Villasenor, highlights the potential of smart systems and innovative lighting design to shape a modern, energy-efficient work environment.
‘Working closely with UK lighting manufacturer DRK Lighting, was key to the success of this project. From initial on-site mock-ups to final commissioning, DRK supported us every step of the way. This collaboration allowed us to refine our design and ensure the final lighting installation perfectly aligned with our vision.’
Sacha Abizadeh, Growth Director at WSP UK
Image credits to WSP and Andrew Boyd Studio
Our DRK Product Range
DRK Lighting’s contribution to the project was extensive, as we supplied a variety of DRK proprietary products that complemented WSP’s vision. Key DRK products incorporated into the overhaul were:
– Excelsior Range of Linear and Linear Rings (1280 metres): A pivotal element in creating a uniform, glare-free lighting throughout the building. These linear fixtures are integrated seamlessly with acoustic panels, providing both acoustic and visual comfort.
– 48V Track System (968 metres): Offering flexibility in lighting design, the 48V track system was paired with CAMPION Track Mounted Fittings (698 units) to provide adaptable, energy-efficient lighting across collaborative and individual workspaces.
– Mini Profile (65 metres) and Nano Neon (30 metres): These sleek and discreet lighting solutions contributed to creating visually pleasing accent lighting, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal without overpowering the functional lighting.
– TIGRIS Downlight (339 units), BESTLA (187 units), SHIRE Downlight (159 units), and ELBE Downlight (67 units): These downlights ensured focused, high-quality illumination across key areas, including workstations, meeting rooms, and communal spaces. Their energy-efficient design aligned with the project’s sustainability goals.
– CARPO (50 units), KOTTO (20 units), LOIRE Pendant (25 units), INDUS Pendant (20 units), and ARNO Bulkhead (40 units): These decorative elements were strategically placed to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the office, adding warmth and elegance to common areas such as reception and breakout zones.
– TAMAR Panel Light (6 units): Used in select locations, these panel lights provided uniform illumination in areas that required consistent, non-distracting lighting.
Each of these products was a thoughtful addition into the lighting scheme, helping to achieve a low power density of just 5.54W/sqm for functional lighting, significantly improving upon the original design’s 11.8W/sqm. The combination of DRK’s efficient lighting solutions and WSP’s planning resulted in a visually stunning workspace with exceptional energy efficiency.
Image credits to WSP and Andrew Boyd Studio
Smart Technologies and Lighting Controls
The heart of WSP’s lighting overhaul was the integration of smart technologies, with the lighting system designed to adapt dynamically to occupancy and usage.
Image credits to WSP and Andrew Boyd Studio
Natural and Artificial Light
WSP’s focus on daylight integration was also enhanced by DRK’s lighting solutions, particularly the linear luminaires and downlights. These fixtures were carefully positioned to complement the natural light streaming, creating a balanced and comfortable illumination level that mimics daylight conditions.
Image credits to WSP and Andrew Boyd Studio
Flexibility and Future-Proofing the Workspace
One of the defining aspects of the lighting design was its flexibility. The ability to reprogram the lighting for special events, corporate occasions, or shifts in office usage was vital in future-proofing the space. Our adaptable lighting products, including track-mounted fittings and decorative pendants, were instrumental in achieving this flexibility, ensuring that the lighting could evolve with WSP’s changing needs.
A Commitment to Sustainability
DRK and WSP share commitments to sustainability, which was evident throughout the project as we worked to minimise waste and reduce energy consumption.
DRK Lighting’s role in retrofitting WSP’s 70 Chancery Lane headquarters exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in creating modern, sustainable workspaces. By incorporating smart lighting, DRK helped transform WSP’s office into a vibrant, energy-efficient hub that promotes well-being, productivity, and sustainability. DRK continues to work closely with WSP on other exciting London-based projects and are due to officially launch our new Showroom in Shoreditch in early October.