Solaris marked our first-ever entry into the [d]arc Awards and provided a platform to showcase not only our creative capabilities but also our commitment to sustainable innovation. Created in collaboration with DPA Lighting Consultants, who conceived and designed the installation, Solaris was brought to life by the DRK team through expert engineering, remanufacturing, fabrication, and installation. The result was an engaging and visually striking interpretation of the rising sun, inspired by Heath Robinson and Eliasson’s The Weather Project. It captured visitors’ attention throughout the event and demonstrated the potential of circular remanufacturing in the lighting industry.
Taking inspiration from the relationship between light, movement, and material transformation, Solaris invited visitors to experience light in a dynamic and interactive way. Activated by visitors, coloured light and mirrored surfaces transform into a kinetic experience. The installation utilised remanufactured and recycled lighting components, highlighting DRK’s ability to breathe new life into existing products and materials.
We calculated the installation to be 85% constructed from recycled material, implementing:
- Scaffolding from a barn
- Timber from a skip
- A reused micro prism diffuser
- The steel cage started life as a fence
- Remanufactured lighting products
- Cable off cuts
- 3D printed elements are printed using Prusament PETG Recycled Filament
As visitors moved around and engaged with the piece, the coloured light prism interacted with mirrors and recycled materials, creating constantly shifting reflections and patterns. This sense of movement and transformation reflected DRK’s remanufacturing philosophy of taking existing resources and reimagining them into something new.
Working closely with DPA Lighting Consultants, Ingo Kalecinski and his talented team, throughout the project allowed the original design vision to be realised with precision and attention to detail. DRK’s expertise in remanufacturing and bespoke lighting solutions ensured that every element of the installation was carefully considered, from the selection of materials through to the final execution.
Solaris attracted significant attention from attendees, designers, manufacturers, and lighting professionals. Visitors were particularly interested in the use of remanufactured materials and the demonstration of how sustainability can be integrated into high-quality design without compromising creativity or impact.
The positive reception reinforced the growing importance of circular economy principles within the lighting sector and highlighted DRK’s position as a leader in sustainable lighting solutions. Solaris served not only as an artistic installation but also as a statement of intent, showing what can be achieved when innovative design, technical expertise, and environmental responsibility come together.
For DRK Lighting, Solaris represented far more than an awards entry. It was an opportunity to showcase DRK’s culture and values, celebrate our remanufacturing capabilities, and demonstrate the irresistible potential of sustainable lighting practices available in the UK.
