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LED-relighting of Sparkasse Ulm: Modernisation through light - efficiency and aesthetics in harmony
Almost 20 years ago, Sparkasse Ulm was equipped with ERCO Lightcast luminaires and compact fluorescent lamps, which were modern and efficient by the standards of the time. Then as now, the architects from Braunfels Architekten and the engineers from Conplaning attached particular importance to excellent lighting design. As part of a comprehensive relighting project, Sparkasse Ulm decided to convert to ERCO Quintessence LED downlights that combine state-of-the-art lighting technology with timeless aesthetics.
The main objectives of the project were to improve energy efficiency, lighting quality and design aesthetics. At the same time, the new lighting system had to be seamlessly integrated into existing architecture. The requirements in detail:
Flush-mounted installation: Even after 20 years, the luminaire installation was to be flawlessly embedded in the ceiling architecture, without protruding edges.
Higher quality of light and efficiency: The new luminaires were to provide significantly higher illuminance than the previous ones while maximising energy savings.
Economic efficiency and technical support: An attractive price-performance ratio and comprehensive support from ERCO played a key role.
The solution: Quintessence LED downlight
After intensive tests in a specially equipped sample room, the project team at Sparkasse Ulm decided to use ERCO Quintessence LED downlights. These luminaires impressed with their brilliance, excellent glare control and the ability to achieve the required efficiency values.
A total of almost 500 LED downlights were installed. Thanks to the high light output, it was possible to use smaller luminaire sizes, which further emphasised the discreet design. For seamless integration, ERCO supplied custom-made, frameless levelling rings that perfectly fitted the luminaires into the existing ceiling openings. This rendered the replacement process simple and efficient, with each luminaire being installed precisely.
The new lighting system provided key improvements in several areas. The quality of light has been significantly improved: uniform illumination and brilliant colour rendering set new standards for interior lighting. The high energy efficiency of the new system ensures that the investment will amortise within six years.
Relighting of Sparkasse Ulm with ERCO Quintessence LED downlights impressively demonstrates how existing buildings can be successfully modernised. In addition to significant cost savings, the new lighting system offers long-term sustainability and a considerable increase in lighting quality.
The progress is particularly evident when looking at the building's exterior. The upper floor, which has not yet been converted, appears noticeably darker and cooler, while the modernised areas appear brighter and more inviting.
