The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) recently held its 53rd Annual Illumination Awards program.
EXP’s lighting design team was recognized twice with Awards of Merit in the “Illumination Award for Interior Lighting Design” category for their work on the Body Odyssey exhibit and Pier Sixty-Six hotel.
Body Odyssey is an exhibit at The Franklin Institute, a historic museum in Philadelphia, PA. It demonstrates the inner workings of the human body and emphasizes the essential connection between mental and physical health. Our designers reused portions of the existing electrical lighting infrastructure and installed a theatrical DMX-based control system for additional experiential elements and dynamic effects.
EXP’s lighting design across the exhibit plays an important role in illuminating and showcasing the newly renovated Giant Herat, perhaps the most famous and popular exhibit in the museum. Built in 1953, this structure now features synchronized sensory technology — LED linear lighting changes colors and mimics visitors’ heartbeats to represent a healthy, functioning circulatory system. This immersive, interactive display provides guests with a unique way to learn and explore.
EXP also won an Award of Merit for services provided on Pier Sixty-Six, a coastal resort in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The site was redeveloped by Tavistock Development Company in coordination with the local historic preservation committee. The 325-key hotel is home to 12 restaurants and lounges, 43,000 sq ft of meeting and ballroom space, a 13,000 sq ft spa and the iconic 17th story Pier Top restaurant. Its design fused modern influences with mid-century roots to create a warm, elegant atmosphere where guests can relax and connect.
Our team implemented an integrated networked lighting control system that operates across the site and all buildings. This intelligent infrastructure allows the environment to evolve throughout the day, transitioning the intensity and color of light to support both the guest experience and operational needs. The system can be monitored and managed property-wide, providing greater operational efficiency while supporting energy use reduction, maintenance and troubleshooting.
“Both projects approached lighting through the lens of storytelling and the guest experience, but with two very different end goals,” Principal Kate Sanoke, IALD, LC, LEED AP said. “In each, lighting was instrumental in shaping an environment guests could connect with and enjoy, balancing the functional needs of the spaces with the creative, immersive experience. We are incredibly proud to have our work recognized with these awards.”
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Image credit: Tavistock