Architectural lighting illuminates temple

Energy-efficient lighting is bringing the spectacular Shri Sanatan HinduTemple to life whilst ensuring low maintenance, low glare and cost savings. ROBUS explains how lighting can accentuate architectural beauty and sacredness, bringing structures like the Shiri Sanatan Temple to life.

As you stroll along Ealing Road in Wembley, the stunning Shiri Sanatan Temple stands out as a jewel of traditional Hindu architecture for its beauty and intricate detail. This temple meticulously follows the numerical and geometrical principles outlined in the Shilpa Shastras – sacred texts that specify the design rules and standards for Hindu temples. The structure’s layout, based on a strategic grid system, showcases the profound attention to detail that went into its creation.

Our commitment was to provide lighting that complements the high standards of quality the temple demonstrates, using energy-saving lighting solutions throughout. Both the exterior and interior walls, including the 210 pillars, 11 inner temples and 29 sanctums, are adorned with intricate carvings and mouldings. With so many dazzling features deserving of attention, how can a lighting design do them all justice?

Lighting design

In many ways, we were starting with a blank canvas as the exterior had never had lighting and the interior had only minimal lighting elements. Immediately obvious was that there was no harmony in colour temperatures internally, so it was essential to provide a more uniform lighting design. It was the responsibility of our in-house Lighting Design team, working with our Project Engineer James Baldwin and electrical contractor Raj from RDG Electrical, to determine the best course of action.

Our team developed a design that included over 400 fixtures. Fundamental to this design were two luminaries: HILUME and COSMIC.

HILUME: low glare uniform lighting

This die cast aluminium floodlight was the perfect fit for lighting the main entrance and the staircase, as well as key external areas. Boasting a tempered glass frosted diffuser, HILUME provides a low glare light distribution at a 100° beam angle, making it ideal for general lighting in large areas.

Other key features that made this luminaire a great fit for the project include:

• Features a 3000K colour temperature, perfect for creating a welcoming, intimate atmosphere in a peaceful space. A 4000K model is also available.
• Pre-drilled 180° adjustable mounting bracket enables flexibility to accommodate many architectural designs.
• Die cast aluminium housing provides optimal heat dissipation and high resistance to weather conditions.
• Tempered glass provides high impact rating of IK05 and anti-vandal protection.
• Up to 93Lm/W efficacy provides energy savings and luminaire longevity.
• Two-year on-site warranty included.

COSMIC: high efficacy of up to 141Lm/W

For brilliant energy savings, our COSMIC floodlight is a winner. Not only is it highly efficient, but it also has flexible mounting options offering a spigot accessory for pole mounting. We installed this luminaire externally on the roof to highlight the beautiful domes of the building.

Other key features of this luminaire include:

• Features a 4000K colour temperature for a bright light with blue tones enabling an energised atmosphere and a more concentrated mindset.
• Compatible with ROBUS LINX smart lighting control system enabling wireless control, automation, daylight harvesting and much more.
• Pre-installed breathable gland prevents internal moisture accumulation for a longer lifetime.
• Pre-drilled mounting bracket with 180° adjustable angle enables flexibility to accommodate many architectural designs.
• Die cast aluminium housing provides optimal heat dissipation and high resistance to weather conditions.
• Two-year on-site warranty included, in addition to a five-year standard warranty.

The final result

Unique to this project was that it was completely funded by the community, with all the labour supplied free of charge by local Hindu electricians. We ensured the project was completed in time for Diwali, the enchanting Hindu festival of lights which symbolises the spiritual ‘victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance’.

James Baldwin, ROBUS Project Engineer, worked closely with Shri Sanatan Hindu Temple and the local Hindu community to bring this project to life. We are delighted to share that the feedback from the Hindu community was overwhelmingly positive, confirming the success of our lighting design.

Our thoughtful lighting solutions not only highlight the spectacular architecture and intricate carvings of the building, but also promise low maintenance and significant energy savings thanks to their high efficacy and robust construction. These features combined contribute to the long lifespan of our floodlights, which are all protected by our two-year on-site warranty.

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This article appeared in Electrotechnical News Mar/Apr 2025 edition – read it here