Lighting the interior of listed buildings presents a unique challenge, as demonstrated at the Tacheles in Berlin. Built in 1909, this historic structure, once one of Berlin's largest shopping arcades, has had an eventful history - from partial demolitions and squatting by the "Tacheles" artists' collective to its use as a left-wing autonomous art and cultural centre. Recently, as part of a redevelopment of the entire district, the Tacheles has been extensively redesigned and reimagined. Today, it hosts the famous Swedish museum FOTOGRAFISKA, among others, and offers 5,000 square metres of space for rotating exhibitions and cultural events. The lighting design for this challenging project was executed by the Berlin-based lighting design firm jack be nimble, who collaborated with TRILUX to create bespoke lighting solutions.

Sophisticated lighting concept for functional and atmospheric light

To ensure optimal illumination and visual impact of the spaces, the Berlin lighting design office jack be nimble sought a full-service lighting partner. The brief was not only to deliver exceptional efficiency, lighting quality, and luminaire design, but also to use the lighting to structure the rooms, intuitively guide visitors through the building, and help shape the building's identity. This was achieved through a combination of our standard portfolio products and custom solutions from our manufactory.

At the heart of the lighting concept is the So-Tube, an iconic tubular fixture that runs through the building like a common thread, creating striking atmospheric effects in various areas as a distinctive lighting element. It is complemented by Lenty spotlights and our Finea light channel. All TRILUX luminaires are connected and networked via the LiveLink light management system, allowing the light colour and intensity to be controlled according to the time of day and the event requirements.

Lights, Camera, Action

Welcome to Tacheles

Join Sophia Klees from jack be nimble on a short video tour through the listed building to learn more about the story behind the lighting concept and how the architecture, interior design and lighting complement each other.