Issue 45 Feb 25 web - Flipbook - Page 54
Illuminating Leicester
Cathedral: A Visionary Journey
Leicester Cathedral is a beacon of history, culture and spirituality situated at the heart of this most
multicultural of cities. From its medieval roots to its significance as the final resting place of King
Richard III, the building, upgraded to cathedral status in 1927, has been a vital part of the community’s
life for centuries.
The cathedral embarked on a new chapter with a
transformative lighting project designed by CBG Light
Perceptions. This visionary endeavour protects the
historic setting, renews sacred spaces, and redefines how
the cathedral is experienced, both inside and out. The
foundations of the current lighting scheme were laid more
than 10 years ago, during the early stages of a comprehensive re-ordering project. During this time the discovery of King Richard III’s remains in a nearby car park
profoundly influenced the direction of the project.
Following a Judicial Review that confirmed the Ministry
of Justice’s license for Richard III’s re-interment at
Leicester Cathedral, the design team shifted focus to
accommodate this historic event.
The fundamental principles of the new lighting scheme
were established through a rigorous options appraisal
process. The design team determined that the use of arts
and crafts-style pendants along with other decorative
lighting solutions would be the most appropriate
approach. This decision facilitated the removal of excessively bright spotlights and floodlights that had cluttered
the nave, aisles and chapel walls for decades.
The pendants, with their frosted glass shades, create a
warm and inviting ambient light that flows through the
cathedral’s arcades. This approach eliminates harsh
shadow lines caused by previous floodlighting systems,
providing a more harmonious illumination. The shades
also enhance horizontal light transmission, emphasising
the intricate stonework and architectural details,
including those above Richard III’s tomb.
The lighting design for the tomb and the adjoining
Sanctuary area was seamlessly integrated into the
cathedral-wide scheme. This ensured that the lighting for
this critical space not only harmonised with the overall
design but also provided the necessary focus and
ambience for the monarch’s final resting place.
Careful consideration was given to the size and placement
of the fittings, as well as the associated cabling and back
boxes. These elements were designed to blend discreetly
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