Baltic Works
Baltic Works in Gateshead has undergone a full refurbishment, transforming the existing building into a more welcoming and visually engaging environment. As part of the redevelopment, Light Forms were appointed by Park lighting design on behalf of Robertson Engineering Services to develop and supply the lighting solutions to bring the project’s lighting vision to life.
Photos: Courtesy of Park Lighting Design
At a glance
| Client | Baltic Works |
| Electrical Contractor | Robertson Engineering Services |
| Lighting Design | Park Lighting Design |
| Lighting | Light Forms |
Robertson Engineering Services provided the initial project brief and indicative layouts, which were developed in collaboration with Park Lighting Design. The design focused on creating a clean, considered lighting scheme that complemented the wider refurbishment, with Light Forms working alongside the team to develop the detailed lighting design and specify products suited to the space.
A key focus of the refurbishment was the building’s previously basic entrance. The opportunity to create a more striking reception space formed an important part of the brief, with the lighting playing a central role in establishing a strong first impression for visitors.
At the heart of the reception is a statement neon sign positioned above the desk, creating an immediate focal point within the space. This is complemented by Light Forms’ Lightplane 2.5, used within the dark ceiling to create clean, continuous lines of light that follow the architecture and help define the reception area.
The Lightplane 2.5 was particularly well suited to the project, not only for its sleek appearance but for its ability to create the precise, uninterrupted lines required across the ceiling. Bespoke lengths allowed the fittings to respond directly to the layout of the space, whilst the uniform, low-glare light output provides visual comfort for a busy reception environment. The result is a lighting feature that feels integrated into the architecture rather than simply added to it.
The fittings are also controlled using Casambi wireless technology, giving the end user the ability to adjust lighting scenes easily to suit different activities and requirements. This adds a layer of control to the scheme without compromising the clean aesthetic of the reception.
The lighting approach extends beyond the reception, with decorative pendant luminaires introduced into the breakout spaces to add visual interest and a warmer, more inviting character. Across the wider building, the lighting control strategy was also upgraded, with Ex-Or detectors integrated with the existing system throughout the gym and circulation areas. Together, these elements help create a more cohesive and efficient lighting experience across the building, supporting both user comfort and day-to-day operation.
From the statement neon feature and bespoke linear runs to the considered use of decorative lighting and intelligent controls, the completed scheme gives Baltic Works refurbished spaces a stronger sense of identity. For the reception in particular, Light Forms and Park Lighting Design have transformed a previously basic entrance into a distinctive arrival area, using light to complement the architecture, improve visual comfort and create a more engaging experience for visitors.
The project demonstrates how lighting can become an integral part of a wider refurbishment, combining architectural integration, practical performance and considered control to enhance how a space looks, feels and functions.
