RUSI
61 Whitehall

The Light Lab were appointed as lighting manufacturer as part of the redevelopment of the renowned Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) at 61 Whitehall; ‘the world’s oldest and the UK’s leading defence and security think tank”. Our specialist team worked alongside main contractor Coniston to assist with the transformation of the main atrium skylight and ceiling in the RUSI Library of military history.

It was key for Coniston to preserve the heritage feel of the building, so when restoring the existing 19th century ceiling frame & replacing the original Georgian glass in the ceiling, their main aim was for the lightboxes to retain the feel of natural daylight.

To achieve this design intent, our specialist team manufactured a bespoke backlit lightbox design, to initial specification by Campbell Architects. Replacing all glass panels in the existing atrium and library ceiling skylights, and backlighting with matrix boards to allow for tonal change throughout the day. The filmed glass panels also allow an even diffused appearance in all glass, with a sealed lightbox zone to avoid any dirt/dust from sitting on the glass. The Light Lab team also completed full installation onsite, alongside electrical contractors Raytell, to ensure a high end, quality finish.