The Hansa coking plant in Dortmund was one of the largest in the Ruhr region in the early 20th century. Today, this listed industrial site, built in 1928 and consisting of 19 individual buildings, has been transformed into a popular tourist destination. Two unique restaurant experiences have now been created in the old gas freezer: the "ButterRaum" bistro, housed in the vast industrial hall, and the underground "SchwarzGold" restaurant. For the perfect lighting atmosphere, owner and operator Sascha Nies developed a bespoke lighting concept in collaboration with TRILUX as a full-service partner.

Dayclub upstairs, fine dining downstairs

The two spaces couldn’t be more different. ‘Above ground’, the ButterRaum café/bistro impresses with its ceiling height and large windows that flood the space with natural light. Cosy bistro tables create inviting islands between towering machinery and raw concrete walls, while pastel colours provide a striking contrasts to the industrial charm of the architecture. The space can also be used as an event venue, accommodating up to 120 people.

‘Underground’, a completely different world unfolds in the SchwarzGold restaurant. Here up to 60 guests can enjoy exceptional culinary creations within an exclusive, intimate setting. As the underground location lacks natural light, sophisticated, atmospheric and accentuating lighting plays an important role in setting the mood.

Bespoke lighting concept

close collaboration with the client

Owner Sascha Nies was looking for a lighting partner who could bring his vision for both locations to life. TRILUX impressed him in three key areas: our lighting expertise, our extensive luminaire portfolio, and the close collaboration in developing of the lighting concept. "TRILUX managed to translate my ideas, as someone with little knowledge of lighting, into an outstanding lighting concept," summarises Sascha Nies. In the ButterRaum, B.Veo spotlights provide uniform, ambient lighting, while custom-made Wall-Grazers (SOF), create dramatic lighting accents on the walls. Faciella luminaires designed to perfectly highlight the machinery, emphasising their form and details with targeted lighting accents.

For the SchwarzGold area, which offers a different atmosphere, Finea pendant lights above the tables sets a warm and inviting dining mood. Stylish black Lenty and Idesto luminaires complement the décor, completing the overall aesthetic.

SOF light channel with custom optics

Dining with your eyes - lighting as part of the experience

A project-specific solution was also required in terms of lighting management. For control, the lighting was connected via KNX to the higher-level building management system, which also controls shading and heating. This allows the lighting to be precisely adjusted, switched and dimmed. For example, in SchwarzGold, tables remain dimly lit when unoccupied, with the illuminance gradually increasing to the desired level when guests take their seats. Together, the architecture and lighting create an atmospheric space for unforgettable events in an exclusive setting. The culinary creations of top chef Pierre Beckerling are nothing short of star- worthy.

Would you like to experience the special ambience? Click here to watch the video