Royal Holloway, University of London commissioned the refurbishment of four lecture theatres to create contemporary teaching environments that combined architectural design with high performance lighting. Working alongside Maidenhead Electrical, Mount Lighting was appointed to develop and deliver a bespoke linear lighting solution that complemented the interior design while meeting the technical requirements of modern educational spaces.
From the initial concept through to bespoke manufacturing, technical support and commissioning, our team transformed a design vision into a fully engineered lighting solution, delivering the project ahead of Practical Completion.
The project presented several challenges from the outset. The initial design information was limited, consisting primarily of architectural visuals rather than detailed lighting layouts. With an accelerated programme and very little technical information available, Mount Lighting worked closely with Maidenhead Electrical and the wider project team to develop a fully coordinated lighting scheme that balanced the architect’s vision with the lighting performance required for higher education environments.
Rather than waiting for completed drawings, our technical team developed the lighting design from the ground up. Initial proposals were intentionally produced without lighting calculations, allowing the client to review layouts, provide feedback and refine the concept before progressing to a fully engineered solution. As the project evolved, detailed technical drawings were produced to provide complete clarity on the final installation and ensure every element could be coordinated with confidence.
A defining feature of the project was the bespoke M-Line linear LED lighting integrated within the acoustic ceiling rafts supplied by our showroom partners AllSfär. Working collaboratively with the acoustic design, Mount Lighting engineered bespoke M-Line luminaires with custom angles, intersections and dimensions that matched the raft geometry precisely. This maintained the architect’s vision of continuous illuminated lines while ensuring the lighting integrated seamlessly within the finished ceiling.
Designing bespoke lighting around an already developed acoustic ceiling system required close collaboration, product innovation and careful attention to detail. By manufacturing bespoke corners and tailored linear sections, we were able to preserve the original design intent without compromising lighting performance or the acoustic programme.
The wider lighting scheme combined architectural downlights, track mounted luminaires, suspended lighting and concealed LED lighting tape and profiles on the walls to create comfortable, well illuminated teaching environments. DALI dimmable controls were incorporated throughout the installation, allowing flexible scene setting for lectures while facilitating daylight dimming to reduce energy consumption and support the university’s long term sustainability objectives.
Our involvement extended far beyond product supply. Throughout the project, Mount Lighting provided ongoing technical support, helping Maidenhead Electrical resolve challenges on site and ensuring the installation remained on programme. This collaborative approach enabled the project to be completed successfully ahead of Practical Completion.
The centrepiece of the project is the M-Line bespoke linear lighting installed throughout the lecture theatre ceilings. Rather than using standard linear luminaires, Mount Lighting developed completely bespoke shapes that precisely matched the geometry of the acoustic ceiling rafts supplied by AllSfär. Custom corners, intersections and lengths were manufactured specifically for the project, creating the appearance of continuous illuminated lines that flow naturally throughout each lecture theatre. The finished result delivers a striking architectural feature while providing high quality, uniform illumination for modern teaching environments.
The 240V track lighting system provides a versatile lighting infrastructure capable of supporting adjustable architectural lighting. Its flexibility allows future modifications without major electrical alterations, making it ideal for educational environments where layouts and teaching requirements regularly change.
TRS22 track spotlights were integrated into the track system, maintaining compliance with emergency lighting standards with our DALI emergency track light adapter, while preserving the clean architectural appearance of the ceilings.
MLE38 track mounted linear lighting provides clear and flexible illumination while integrating seamlessly within the architectural lighting design. The track mounted installation reduces ceiling clutter and maintains a consistent aesthetic throughout the teaching spaces.
Force Can luminaires were specified within the circulation areas, where the exposed ceilings and services form part of the building’s industrial character. Mounted directly to the exposed conduit, the luminaires provide clean, functional illumination while complementing the architectural aesthetic rather than concealing it.
Razor LED emergency exit signs were specified throughout the lecture theatres to provide clear, compliant emergency wayfinding without compromising the architectural aesthetic. Their slim, contemporary design integrates within the overall lighting scheme, maintaining clean sightlines while ensuring the spaces meet all relevant safety and emergency lighting requirements.
LED tape with an integrated diffuser was installed between the acoustic wall panels and plaster surfaces to create a continuous indirect uplighting effect. This subtle layer of illumination enhances the architectural detailing, adding depth, contrast and visual interest throughout the lecture theatres. By introducing light at different levels within the space, the scheme creates a more comfortable and visually balanced environment, complementing the primary lighting while reinforcing the layered lighting approach used throughout the project.
The refurbishment of Royal Holloway University’s lecture theatres demonstrates how early collaboration, technical expertise and bespoke manufacturing can transform ambitious architectural concepts into practical lighting solutions.
Despite working from limited design information and within challenging programme constraints, Mount Lighting developed a fully coordinated lighting scheme that achieved the architect’s design intent while delivering the lighting performance expected within contemporary educational environments.
Through our LightVision360™ methodology, we supported the project from concept development and technical design through to bespoke manufacturing, commissioning and ongoing technical support. Working closely with Maidenhead Electrical and coordinating alongside AllSfär ensured every element integrated to perfection.
The completed lecture theatres combine bespoke M-Line linear lighting, architectural luminaires and intelligent DALI controls to create flexible, future ready learning environments that support students, lecturers and teaching staff for years to come.
Delivering projects of this complexity requires more than quality products. It demands collaboration, technical expertise and a shared commitment to achieving the client’s vision. Here’s what Kinga Konopka, Project Manager at Royal Holloway, University of London, had to say about working with Mount Lighting:
“Mount Lighting successfully developed our architect’s concept into a unique, contemporary lighting design that adapts seamlessly to a variety of teaching environments. The bespoke lighting integrated perfectly with the specialist acoustic panels, giving us complete confidence that the fast-paced project would be delivered on programme. This is a testament to Mount Lighting’s collaborative and professional approach, working closely with the wider design team to achieve an excellent outcome.”
Speak to the Mount Lighting team today to shape your next bespoke lighting project.
