The latest stage in the $355m redevelopment of Knox Westfield was revealed in November 2023, described by the Scentre Group as a significant milestone in the broader transformation of Knox and a step towards delivering world-class retail to Melbourne’s East. The project presented some interesting challenges for the design team –A softly illuminated oculus is the dynamic focal point crowning a major redevelopment at Westfield Knox.
Lightmoves provided lighting for the feature, which was initially conceptualised by Electrolight and then developed by Fredon in collaboration with the Scentre Group design team.
Overall, the combination of flexible lighting control and high-quality fixtures allowed Lightmoves to deliver a refined lighting feature. The oculus succeeds in distinguishing the new development without overwhelming visitors or detracting from the lived-experience of the space.
The lightmoves team supplied and commissioned sophisticated lighting control for the oculus that allows for finely tuned colour adjustment and energy saving measures, as well as integration with the wider network at Knox.
Each of the 170+ fixtures inside the oculus has independent RGBW control via DMX and is pixel-map-controlled via a Pharos LPC2. The fixtures are programmed with long transitions so that the colour-changing feature does not detract from the retail experience.
The Pharos LPC2 is integrated over Ethernet with the center’s extensive Dynalite control network, which handles power management for the installation and is scheduled to switch off outside of operating hours, saving the center in energy costs.
Pre-terminated power and integral DMX data link cables were also used to minimise installation time and deliver the project on schedule.
Designers specified subtle, hourly colour-changing sequences inside the oculus, intended to simulate the circadian rhythm with effects such as sunrise, midday, dusk and sunset.
The Lightmoves team supplied and commissioned lighting fixtures and control for the oculus in order to deliver on the brief.
Space Cannon’s CD Linear XL RGBW fixture, with 15 degree lensing, was selected as a wall grazing fitting. This was supplied in 500mm sections to conform to the oculus curve and provide seamless illumination from the perimeter through to the skylight.
At 80 watts-per-metre, the fittings have enough power to provide uniform colour effects despite competing with daylight conditions.
Alongside each section of CD Linear XL, Space Cannon Spaceline 22 linear fixtures were also installed to provide a local glow to the perimeter of the oculus coffer. This secondary feature provides an extra layer of colour and intensity, which would be unachievable using a wall graze alone.
“While the programming is intentionally subtle, the interaction of the feature lighting with the daylight entering the space can be dramatic, as changes in weather create dynamic contrast between the natural and artificial light sources”, adds Tony, Lightmoves’ Feature Lighting Specialist responsible for delivery of the Westfield Knox Oculus Project.
Fredon’s installation team assessing the independent luminaire control prior to final, careful focus.
