"Falling Embers" Project

Project

Spectrum Center, 2005

Addison, TX United States

Artwork Budget: $95,000

Overview

Chandelier-like blown glass lighting designs comprised of eighty-six pendants, in varying heights from 4' to 25', warm the space of two lobbies connected by a horse-shoe shaped corridor. The corridor is lined with complementing pendants and sconces in the same blown glass pattern called Safari. Chandelier cylinders measure 5"D x 20"H. All blown glass shades are mounted on Hubbardton Forge hand-forged fixtures. The information desk features an argon lit custom designed cast glass sculpture.

Goals

In 2005, Granite Properties approached us with regard to the renovation of the Spectrum Center. The request was to warm the stark 38-foot tall atrium space done in surfaces primarily of plate glass, metal, limited wood paneling, and white walls. There was a need for this design to relate to and to heighten the lower level warm tones of the wood paneling, as well as provide something visible from the upper levels.The result was the illusion of an art glass chandelier with what came to be known as “Falling Embers”. The atrium has since become a gathering space, when before, people hurried through. A much needed focal point to the information desk was created with the lit cast glass sculpture in fiery sunset tones of amethyst and amber.

Process

Wimberley Glassworks designed and presented several ideas based on information gathered in several collaborative meetings with client and architect. Custom 25 foot pendant drops were engineered by Hubbardton Forge. Big Dog Neon collaborated with Wimberley Glassworks regarding the fabrication of the argon desk sculpture lighting.

Additional Info

Wimberley Glassworks blown glass shades can be utilized on most pendants and sconces, Hubbardton Forge being their fixtures of choice, used as is or with custom modifications. This UL listed turnkey project used fluorescent lighting to meet LEED, and was installed by onsite electricians using a provided schematic.

Project Team

ARCHITECT

Interprise Design

ARTIST

Tim de Jong
Wimberley Glassworks

ARTIST

Kirk Tunningley
Big Dog Neon

OTHER

Hubbardton Forge