The state-of-the-art Ster Century multiplex comprises some of the biggest screens in the UK and is the largest such cinema in the surrounding area.
ECA member PA Installations (PAI) completed the design and installation of specialist architectural lighting in the cinema foyer, creating a colourful visual impact for the film-going public.
The firm's involvement began in December 2000, following a request from architect Frame International to devise a solution for the colour washing of a plain wall at the rear of the ticket office, and the highlighting of circular ceiling sculptures within a corridor. Rather than following a corporate style, the brief was to enhance, not reinforce, Ster Century's branding.
The PAI design team, led by technical manager Andy Bonehill, designed and specified the lighting and associated control equipment to meet the design brief provided by Frame International's Richard Wagenhauser, who specified the architectural characteristics that were to be featured. The proposed equipment was demonstrated to the architect prior to acceptance of the scheme.
Once the concept had been agreed, the design, plans, and technical schematics, were supplied to the m&e consultant, Kelly Taylor Associates of Edinburgh. PAI was responsible for producing and supplying the associated drawings to Kelly Associates.
The first fix was facilitated by DH Morris of Edinburgh, the electrical contractor appointed by the client's design team following a tender process. This involved installation of power supplies and data and communications cables. PAI was responsible for the second and third fix, plus the system commissioning.
Following the first fix, PAI subcontracted the installation of the lighting equipment to DH Morris to ease the overall electrical installation. The firms co-ordinated with regards to services and specialist requirements. This close partnership proved a basis for the working synergies conducive to completing the project on time and to the satisfaction of the customer.
Jim Sayers of DH Morris confirmed: "The support provided by PAI ensured all aspects of the project were organised prior to everybody's arrival at site, and a good working relationship developed between the companies and their respective on-site teams."
No specialist materials were used in the scheme. However, the nature of the installation and desired lighting effects required precision positioning and fine adjustment of the fittings. Also vital to the finished product was the control of the lighting. Prior to completion of the installation, a PAI commissioning engineer worked alongside Frame International, programming the required lighting effects into the installed lighting control system. Selected Ster Century staff members were then trained in basic preventative maintenance and the correct use of the full system.
Carl Sergeant, PAI project manager, reflected: "The whole project went off without a hitch. I believe this was largely due to the quality of all the companies involved, coupled with the skills and abilities of the installation teams."
The lights are on, Light is open, and its time for the people of Leeds to enjoy themselves.
Source
Electrical and Mechanical Contractor
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