QV1 Ring of Confidence

QV1 is a premium grade, modernist sky scraper on the Perth skyline, known for its luxury office space. When QV1 was first constructed in 1988, linear T8 fluorescent light fittings were used to create an even band of light reflected off the painted concrete parapet on the tower’s rooftop. The building architect – Harry Seidler named this iconic halo feature “The Ring of Confidence” and it has been in place since the buildings inception enabling QV1 to be easily identified and defined in the greater Perth nightscape.

Over time, the light fittings required regular re-lamping and due to constant weather exposure and aging they were no longer serviceable. In the constant pursuit of efficiency, sustainability and innovation, the QV1 ownership group and managing agent sourced a suitable replacement

After an independent review of the job requirements by Arup engineers, Color Kinetics Graze Compact, IntelliHue was recommended as the most suitable luminaire for the job. CBRE then commissioned Light Application to supply the hardware, and Concept Cabling for hardware installation and electrical work.

The halo of light begins at dusk at a color temperature of 2500 K and gradually transitions to a temperature of 6500 K over a period of about 3 hours. The light then gradually transitions back from 6500 K to 2500 K for about 3 hours before dawn, and then off. Maximum intensity of light occurs when the color temperature is warmest to replicate sunset and sunrise. As the color temperature transitions to cool, the intensity also gradually falls to about 60% at 6500K – the interesting effect is meant to replicate moon-rise and the moon’s transition through the night sky.

The lighting will primarily remain in warm to cool white transition, but Color Kinetics’ IntelliHue technology allows the same luminaires to produce a single saturated color, or color-changing light displays for special occasions.

To achieve the desired halo of light, Graze Compact luminaires are placed 100 to 300 mm (4 to 12 in) apart on the roof façade, right against the roof surface to hide them from the view of surrounding buildings or the Perth public domain. Data Enabler Pro power/data supplies are used, along with Pharos control.

Replacing the old fluorescent lighting with the new LED solution has increased light output and reduced maintenance costs. Graze Compact exceeded the required lux levels, while being below the targeted power consumption. Choosing LED lighting was also important to QV1’s overall approach to efficiency and sustainability.