Lumiere Studio, the lighting design department of Lumiere Group, in collaboration with Hilights, have created a whole new world in its own right, a little piece of paradise on earth, Kempinski Summerland Hotel & Resort, located just five minutes from Downtown Beirut. Renowned light designer Davide Orsi and his team adopted an unconventional approach towards the two phases of this project, the residential area and the marina, whether in terms of circulation or architecture: They opted for a minimal use of poles all throughout.
The roads, designed for cars, are lit up from within; while a few small bollards are scattered along the pedestrian pathways and in the gardens in order to create an atmosphere which allows the residents to walk about or hang around comfortably. As for the buildings, the light travels from the ground up; no projectors are attached to these. The team also emphasized the nature element by highlighting the greenery around the village.
The marina was a lot more fun to design, according to Davide. In order to foreground the element of the sea, projectors were placed in rocks under water, which render it bright and clear. As opposed to it turning black at night, the team made sure to make it shine. The pathway around the beach as well consisted of walk-over projectors installed within the wood deck.
Given its proximity to the sea, the environment and the ensuing corrosion presented a major challenge to the designers. They went up against the natural elements and employed products which would stand the test of time: These were double-coated, marine grade, heavy-duty materials. High-efficient, LED luminaires were installed, first as they cater to the issue of intermittent power; and second, in order to respect the variety of color in nature and remain faithful to its beauty. Furthermore, optical fibers were used to light up the dome of Summerland’s very own, original grotto.
Three years after its initiation, 2016 marks the completion of this stunning, majestic, luxurious haven – a private world in its own right. Developed by SDC Group, Kempinski Summerland makes a statement in high-end design that brings new meaning to the word “lifestyle”. This latest jewel on the Lebanese coastline shines as a beacon of leisure and luxury for the country’s beachgoers, tourists and locals alike.