Grainhouse in Covent Garden is a standout example of how historical architecture and modern wireless Casambi control functionality can coexist beautifully. Once a Victorian seed warehouse, this iconic building has been carefully transformed into a prime office and retail scheme after a three-year restoration and refurbishment project. Grainhouse was made up of five buildings, which were brought together and refurbished by architects Barr Gazetas for end client Hines UK. Now offering street-level retail spaces and high-end amenities, it blends heritage charm with stylish design perfectly.
Mount Lighting was brought in during the refurbishment to elevate the lighting functionality of interior spaces throughout the Grainhouse. Architectural firm, JRA, were tasked with the design and fit out of the building’s two lower floors which would house Helix Property Advisors new HQ.
From offices to conference rooms, reception areas, toilets, and communal breakout zones, every corner required carefully considered lighting to reflect the building’s sophisticated design while supporting its sustainability goals.
The project was not without its challenges. Running cabling through a historic structure is never straightforward, but Mount Lighting’s clever solution – wireless Casambi controls – was perfectly suited to the task. The innovative system significantly reduced labour and wiring costs, streamlining the installation process.
The Casambi system was also deployed for emergency lighting management via SceneCOM, allowing for easy compliance with building regulation requirements.
To align with Grainhouse’s commitment to energy efficiency, daylight-saving sensors were also required. The building is designed to be highly sustainable, featuring air source heat pumps and a focus on retaining the original structure to minimise embodied carbon.
Achieving BREEAM Excellent and WELL Platinum certifications already, it has met its goal of being a stand-out sustainable development.
Reception Area and Stairway
Workspace areas
Breakout Spaces and Community Workspaces
Including rockers switches and other accessories for a fully integrated system
The products by Mount Lighting not only enhance the building’s aesthetics but also contribute to its operational goals. The wireless Casambi controls simplified installation, reduced labour costs, and offered a seamless integration with daylight-saving sensors.
Our lighting helped contribute towards the sustainability of the building, meeting the WELL Platinum and BREEAM Excellent standards, and our ongoing support means the Casambi system remains cutting-edge.
Thomas Nimmo of Keyshel Interiors shared his experience working with Mount Lighting: “We chose Mount Lighting’s fittings because they closely matched our design brief while providing excellent value. We’ve worked with them many times before, initially discovering their products online, and the collaboration was very easy and assistive throughout. We would absolutely use their products again for future projects.”
Even after successful project completion, Mount Lighting offers Casambi lighting controls updates and product support.
Miles Cantley, Innovation Director at Mount Lighting, said: “We’re incredibly proud to have Grainhouse as the first project where Mount Lighting has entered into a contract to continue providing Casambi product support and updates for a year post project completion. As a certified Casambi Sales Partner, we’re excited to showcase the transformative power of this technology – combining energy efficiency, wireless functionality, and seamless integration to achieve the highest standards in lighting.”
At Mount Lighting, we specialise in creating bespoke lighting solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for modern design, energy efficiency, or sustainable lighting options, our team is here to bring your vision to life.
Looking for lighting that transforms spaces while meeting sustainability targets? Let’s discuss how we can transform your space with our expert lighting designs. Contact us now for a consultation.
