CHICAGO—Traxon Technologies, a provider of solid state lighting and control systems, was selected as the key LED lighting and controls provider for InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile’s new, exterior illumination solution. The new lighting scheme debuted alongside The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 17 in downtown Chicago.
Designed by Robert Osten and Anna Baranczak of Lam Partners, Boston, the lighting and control system features both architectural and media elements. Traxon’s Wall Washer Shield AC XB RGB, Graze Shield AC XB RGB, and String RGB replace metal halides, adding ultra bright, sustainable, low-maintenance LED illumination to the famous hotel’s onion dome and top floors. The application, installed by PROARC Electric and managed by Bulley & Andrews, LLC, is fully controlled by an e:cue Lighting Control Engine (LCE), which orchestrates both static and dynamic effects viewable from nearly anywhere on Michigan Avenue and downtown Chicago.
Selected for their ability to richly wash the geometrically-challenging dome structure and accentuate all of the immaculate, existing architectural characteristics, Traxon’s Wall Washer and Graze Shield AC XB fixtures lend an even, saturated glow.
Intricasies Created Challenges
“Built in 1929, the historic building offers many interesting details, such as carved stone and even gargoyles; there is much visual potential,” said lighting designer Anna Baranczak. “Our vision was to accentuate the building in a way that brings it up into the realm of the other outstanding architecture in its neighborhood, making it a permanent, memorable part of Chicago’s cityscape.”
To add a sparkling effect that can be programmed to change color and animation according to festivals, holidays, and other special occasions, Traxon’s String RGB was added to outline the dome, adding effects for more short-term scenarios.
“The combination of both the saturated washing effect and the dynamic media effect create a combined direct and in-direct viewing application,” said lighting designer Robert Osten. “This two-layer system adds increased depth and personality to the already stunning architectural features of the InterContinental Chicago.”
“Traxon is pleased to have been selected as the LED lighting and control partner for this incredibly unique and historically rich application,” said Tony Carrella, president of Traxon USA. “We are thrilled to contribute to Chicago’s spectacular skyline.”
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