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The Deep


The Deep

Hull

An award-winning visitor attraction and the world’s only submarium, The Deep in Hull tells the story of the world’s oceans through stunning aquaria and interactive exhibits.

To enhance the Twilight Zone—a dimly lit area showcasing wolf eels, giant Japanese spider crabs, and other unique sea creatures—Peter Fordham of DHA Design used the latest LED technology.

Architainment Lighting Ltd supplied iColor Cove EC from Philips Color Kinetics, chosen for its affordability, low power consumption, and ease of control. Using Chromasic technology, iColor Cove EC lowers the cost of digital LED control, making the entire system more economical. The low-profile units excel in producing saturated colors and dynamic effects in tight spaces.

Bringing the Twilight Zone to Life

The Twilight Zone must remain dark to suit its exotic creatures and recreate the murky depths of the ocean. Dark blues, purples, and rich UV hues dominate the space, illuminated by approximately 130 iColor Cove EC units. Each 12-inch unit is individually programmable, allowing for precise color-changing effects.

Fordham’s design includes 30 light slots embedded into the display panels, each featuring two or more iColor Cove EC units. The system was programmed to create dynamic, room-wide color-changing sequences, enhancing the immersive experience.

A Philips Color Kinetics iPlayer 2, paired with ColorPlay authoring software, made it easy to map the iColor Cove EC units, producing impressive light shows that bring the Twilight Zone to life.

Project Credits

  • Completion Date: June 2005
  • Client: The Deep
  • Lighting Designer: DHA Designs
  • Other Companies Involved: Lighting Technology Projects
  • Photography: Louise Stickland
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