Lighting Phase 1-Revised

As we continue moving forward with Phase 1 A of the redecorating project - For Such a Time as This - we will soon begin the preparatory work to complete the revised Phase 1 lighting plan. The revised Phase 1 lighting plan will include new electrical wiring and the lighting in the Sanctuary, the area where the Sanctuary transitions into the Nave, the Adoration Chapel, the Gallery rear where the organ is located, and just under the rear Gallery near the church exit. See the revised layout below.

The current lighting system is over 100 years old and limited to downlighting from historic lanterns and later flood and spotlight additions. The revised Phase 1 lighting plan shown here will use a combination of accent lighting, uplighting, and additional downlighting to highlight the building’s architectural beauty and enhance the spiritual experience both in person and while participating remotely via live streaming. Here are images of the types of fixtures that will be used.

The lighting beam illustration below provides some insight into the improvements the light from the new fixtures will make, providing ambient light in the Sanctuary from downlighting along with accent lighting to highlight the beautiful new furnishings that will be located there. The uplight fixtures that will be installed in the Nave will fill the vaulted ceiling with light revealing its soaring majesty. Both the added ambient light and uplighting were demonstrated on a small scale to great effect during a review with the advisory parishioner groups a few weeks ago. Please note that the historic lanterns from the 1930’s will be updated and re-installed. Two will be relocated to the Adoration Chapel and two will be stored for future use. 

From a practical perspective, a few areas of the Nave and Gallery need additional lighting. These include the rear Gallery, where the organ is located and the choir performs, and the area just below the Gallery near the exit. These deficiencies are being addressed in Phase 1 with added lighting, including new decorative lights L2, in the Lighting Fixture Images graphic. This layout provides some added detail.

The updates and upgrades in Phase 1 will be part of the automated control system previously introduced, with programmed presets that adjust the lighting for various conditions. Programmed preset channels will be established for various liturgies creating the perfect ambiance for every occasion. Each type of lighting has its own control circuit and is part of the system. Below are suggested channel presets and detail of the circuits.

Our goal is to create a welcoming environment that supports the various liturgies that occur within it, is balanced and appropriate for a Basilica, follows current liturgical guidelines, and respects the history of Sacred Heart.