The architectural lighting project for the Hellenic Parliament building and the Monument of the Unknown Soldier has earned international recognition for 2024, receiving the prestigious “Heritage Lighting Design” award from the LIT Lighting Design Awards. The project was undertaken by DANILOF studio light + perception in collaboration with Zambelis S.A., which acted as the contractor.
The LIT Lighting Design Awards, a global organisation based in Switzerland, annually celebrates excellence in architectural, design, and construction lighting projects. Each year, an international jury evaluates and honours top submissions across various categories, including landscape lighting, interior architectural lighting, and bridge and infrastructure lighting.
Designed by Bavarian architect Friedrich von Gärtner and completed in 1843 as a royal palace, the Hellenic Parliament building has served as the seat of the Greek Parliament since 1935. Standing before the Parliament is the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, unveiled in 1932 to honor fallen soldiers, designed by sculptor Fokion Rok and architect Emmanuel Lazaridis.
The previous lighting system had become outdated, prompting a redesign to enhance the aesthetic appeal of this prominent Athenian landmark while adopting an environmentally conscious approach. The new lighting design offers dynamic compositions that gently evolve throughout the night, with programmed scenarios featuring varying intensities and shades of white light.
Key features of the lighting concept include:
- Layered Illumination: Highlighting the sequential architectural levels and the rhythm of elements like marble window frames, pediments, and cornices.
- Material Texture: Accentuating the color and texture of the building’s materials.
- Statue Lighting: Revealing the fine details of the statues surrounding the monument.
- Innovations in Sustainable Lighting
The project prioritised minimizing light pollution through low-intensity lighting and adjustments to even lower levels after midnight to preserve the dark sky. Automated transitions from cool white to warm light reduce the emission of blue-spectrum light, further curbing environmental impact.
The lighting system employs compact LED fixtures with precision optics, locked targeting capabilities, and anti-glare components to prevent light spillage into the sky. Additionally, the design seamlessly integrates the new system into the historic structure, respecting its architectural details and utilizing existing electrical pathways where possible. The façade lighting enhances the building’s morphological features while ensuring they remain understated during daylight hours. This careful balance between preservation, functionality, and aesthetics has earned the project well-deserved recognition on the global stage.
