Since 2021, Project Services NSW in Westfield Eastgardens has been an ongoing collaboration with Service NSW and the architects (currently Lead Architects) to improve the lighting design in parallel with a revised interior design.
Our lighting goal was to ensure that each area had its own unique ambience that aligned with its intended purpose and complied with lighting standards. To achieve this, we used a layered light approach that allowed us to define customer and employee areas within the space.
The ceiling of the new spaces was redesigned from a white to a black ceiling. This required careful consideration of perceived contrast, the physical appearance of the lights selected, and the brightness of each light, to ensure an overall inviting and warm environment.
Throughout the centre, we used hoops (circular LED extrusions with opal diffusers) to provide general lighting and create ambience. The hoops not only added a stylish element to the space but also contributed to a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
With the customer in mind, we used linear track as wayfinding suggesting the pathway from the entry and pin spots to point to the key desk and machine where guests would take a number.
Throughout the waiting areas we used round light fittings with a warmer 3000K light to instil a sense of calmness for the customers awaiting their turn.
For the service desks, we installed low-glare linear lights with a cooler 4000K colour temperature and brighter light levels. This decision served a dual purpose: activating the circadian rhythm of the workers to enhance productivity and gently differentiating the area for customers.
Perimeter cove lighting played a vital role in framing the interiors and highlighting the warmth of the timber finishes.
One of the challenges on the projects, was illuminating the photo booths used for driver’s licenses and identification cards without casting a shadow on the customers face. Shadows were a concern as they would render the photos unacceptable to the AI mechanism.
To overcome this obstacle, we strategically placed vertical cooler light 4000K LED strips on each side of the booth. These strips provided vertical lighting while effectively softening the shadows. The strips were cleverly concealed and integrated into the joinery. Additionally, low-level strip lighting served not only for decorative purposes but also helped to define the space.
The ongoing collaboration between Services NSW and our lighting design team has led to a transformative customer experience at Westfield Eastgardens. By implementing a layered lighting approach, addressing challenges creatively, and incorporating various lighting techniques, we succeeded in creating an inviting, warm, and functional space for both customers and employees.
We were delighted to have received a glowing review from Matthew Jounizadeh, Project Manager for Service NSW:
“The experience of working with Raffaele and Colin from Light It Design on the rollout of our new service centre design has been exceptional. Their innovative thinking and meticulously crafted designs have undoubtedly infused our Service Centres with distinctive characteristics. We’re truly fortunate to partner with Light It Design and look forward to continued collaboration, anticipating more of their innovative solutions in the future”.
Matthew Jounizadeh
Project Manager | Service NSW
If you’re looking to create or transform the ambience in your space, please get in touch: light@lightit.global