Leeds Trinity University, Leeds
Leeds Trinity University Partnered with Desco to Install Brand New Lighting, Enhance Sustainability and Modernise Learning Spaces.
The new Leeds City Campus at Trevelyn Square, Leeds Trinity University (LTU), recently underwent a brand new lighting install to enhance sustainability and functionality. This project reflects LTU’s commitment to environmental responsibility while creating a modern, engaging learning environment for students and staff. The scale of this came to half a million £ for the brand new light fittings. It will be home to students studying Business, Law, Computer Science, Criminology, and Construction and Built Environment.
A Collaborative Approach
Desco, an award-winning Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) consulting engineering practice, collaborated with Jefferson Sheard Architects, electrical contractors Sharpe Group, building specialists Graham, and Tamlite Lighting to deliver bespoke lighting solutions. The aim was to achieve Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) certification while fitting the campus with more efficient and durable luminaires.
Meeting Challenges with Bespoke Solutions
The project raised both challenges and opportunities as a seven-storey building. Comprehensive site assessments and research conducted by Desco and Tamlite helped design a lighting solution tailored to LTU’s needs. Performance luminaires, and advanced controls such as Vision Air, were specified to achieve the university’s high standards. This would ensure the design aligned with LTU’s sustainability and functionality objectives.
Sustainability and Efficiency at the Forefront
The new building now has specialist facilities including; a board room, a mock law court, a custody suite, and a lab for computer science students. These rooms are designed to enhance students' learning experience. This will allow them to become familiar with the environment and equipment.
The lighting design prioritised compliance with TM66 standards, leveraging Tamlite Vision Air wireless control system. This bespoke system offered daylight harvesting and occupancy sensor capabilities, automatically adjusting light levels based on natural light and room usage. Classrooms and lecture halls benefited from SIGNUM luminaires, delivering high-quality, focused lighting. For corridors and communal areas, IKON luminaires were included. GEMINI luminaires were fitted in break out areas, providing both durability and a modern aesthetic. LTU's study areas were equipped with PRIMA luminaires, which ensured comfortable, yet productive lighting.
These solutions enhanced focus and significantly reduced energy consumption, supporting LTU’s sustainable goals.
Focusing on Wellbeing and Collaboration
The project prioritised occupant wellbeing by introducing glare-free lighting designed to enhance focus and productivity. The lighting installations aligned with wellbeing criteria, particularly in learning spaces, fostering better concentration. It also encourages a more collaborative environment for students and staff.
Success Through Teamwork
The seamless collaboration between Desco, Jefferson Sheard Architects, Sharpe Group, Graham, and Tamlite Lighting ensured the integration of architectural vision and sustainability goals. Engineers played a critical role in commissioning the systems, fine-tuning the systems performance, to ensure that the process guaranteed the final installation met technical, operational and sustainable requirements.
A Perfect Partnership
Desco shared, “This collaboration was a perfect example of sustainability and technical excellence working hand-in-hand. The new lighting system not only helped secure BREEAM Excellence certification but also created an environment where students and staff can thrive.”
This project exemplifies Tamlite’s commitment to delivering innovative lighting solutions that exceed expectations. The Leeds City Campus now stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when sustainability and cutting-edge design come together.
Photos Courtesy of Leeds Trinity University