Scroll down to learn about the evolution of lighting in the Park Avenue Armory Veteran's Room
The chandelier on the historic yoke fixtures were retrofitted with LED
The mantle sconces were also retrofitted with LEDs
The optics produced are reminiscent of the original gas lighting.
Historic image of the original fixtures with gas jets
The fixtures were first retrofitted with electric
Evolution of the Veteran's Room fixtures, from gas to electric to LED
Park Avenue Armory: Veteran’s Room
New York, NY
One of the most rewarding aspects of a lighting restorer's experience is to be part of the evolution of a lighting fixture. Our work in the Veterans' Room was an intense integration of modern LED technology into the elaborate and eclectic historic lighting fixtures.
The room, designed by Louis C. Tiffany, Associated Artists, is the most elaborate and ornate room at the Armory. Of special note are two 30' wrought iron fixtures that span the room and were manufactured by Mitchell, Vance & Co. Finished in 1880, the fixtures just preceded the advent of electricity in that part of town and were each lit by (24) gas jets. Even with so many flames, the room must have been very atmospheric with low level lighting. The building was later electrified and the fixtures were fitted accordingly for incandescent bulbs.
As the latest iteration, the architects Herzog & de Meuron in conjunction with Fisher Marantz Stone--architectural lighting consultants--redesigned the lighting source yet again. This time, concave lenses are lit by single LED pucks. The light follows the curve of the lens and emulates the flame jets that originally lit the room. The execution of the Design Team's vision was extremely intricate and complex. Aurora's role was to carry out the design intent and seamlessly integrate the new lighting solutions into the historic fixtures. Our scope also involved the fabrication of numerous wall-mounted luminaires to allow for infinite lighting options and settings. This work included 82 linear feet of wall wash lighting.
From recreating the warm atmospheric glow of the gas lighting to the state-of-the-art theatrical effects, the room is equipped to showcase the diverse art experiences for which the Armory has become known.
Awards:
Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award, The New York Landmarks Conservancy, Park Avenue Armory 2017
2017 IALD Special Citation for Inventive and Sensitive Reimagination of Historic Gas Luminaires
2017 IESNY Lumen Award of Excellence
2017 IES Illumination Award of Merit
2017 Interior Restoration Award from the Friends of the Upper East Side Historic Districts
2017 Palladio Award from Traditional Building Magazine
2017 The New York Landmarks Conservancy’s – Lucy G. Moses Award in Historic Preservation