Project Location: Kilternan, Co Dublin
Lighting Design: Wink Lighting
Architect: Stephen Newell Architects
A core goal in lighting any place of worship is to create a bright, comfortable environment where attention naturally falls on the altar and speaker. For Kilternan Parish Church, we positioned all fixtures so they are never in the congregation’s direct line of sight, preventing glare and distraction. The selected fittings have controlled beam angles, and we were on site during installation to ensure precise focusing so every pew is evenly lit.
To highlight the altar, pulpit, and chancel, we used higher, more focused light levels in those areas. The parish also wanted flexibility, so we provided a Bluetooth-controlled system that allows lighting adjustments for everyday services or special occasions.
During the project, the parish requested automatic lighting for visitors outside service times. The Bluetooth system allowed us to easily integrate a motion sensor without extra control wiring. The lights now switch on when someone enters and turn off afterward, enhancing safety and saving energy.
Lighting in Harmony with the Liturgical Calendar
We programmed the lighting control system with preset colour scenes from the liturgical calendar – green for ordinary time, purple for Advent and Lent, white for Christmas and red for occasions such as Palm Sunday. These can be adjusted to suit any denomination or service. The system uses Casambi, a flexible bluetooth lighting control platform that allows parish staff to easily change or refine settings as needed.
