Challenge

ASF was asked to come up with a solution for a stainless steel illuminated handrail / step unit system for the impressive One City Square project in Bradford.

Challenges included an 8-week end-to-end lead time and, on a technical note, the desired specification required square or rectangular section stainless steel, a timber handrail and linear illumination.

The off-the-shelf slotted rectangular tube worked well for the lighting, but the wall thickness was too thin to cope with the natural seasonal movement from timber if fully clad.

Solution

ASF worked with LTP Lighting Integration to develop a bespoke lighting unit so that each individual section of railing had a dedicated light, allowing for some movement in the system without compromising the lamp.

Expansion gaps are also built into the timbers and 'celebrated' rather than trying to hide them. A combination for square and rectangular section stainless steel was used, with a flat bar horizontal infill to create a style focussed end product that remained in line with the client.

Outcome

The outcome is a very modern system that celebrates and area of 'Spanish Steps' alongside a longer and wider stairway.

Lighting meets the required standards for both brightness and colour temperature and the timber capping sections offer a decorative element and a warm-to-touch finish.

ASF's LED systems are designed for Dark Skies and align with ILP guidelines for lighting in ecologically sensitive areas. They contain specifically tailored optics to avoid glare and upwards light spill to support Dark Buffers plus Dark and Dark Blue Corridors.