Highlighting form with architectural lighting

Written by

16 April 2024

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4 min read

Architectural lighting, where innovation and creativity converge to illuminate our built environments, ArkLED shines with its ingenuity and adaptability. Founded by Romain Machefer, with over 15 years of experience in the lighting industry, ArkLED has swiftly made its mark by revolutionising how we perceive and interact with light.

Established in 2019, ArkLED offers technical lighting solutions to the Australian architectural design community. The company aims to create a collective awareness and appreciation of the power of light within interiors by focusing on the latest luminaire design technologies and providing comprehensive architectural lighting solutions to specifiers.

In a recent interview with Romain Machefer, the principal at ArkLED, ArchiPro delves into the company's ethos, its approach to lighting design, and its commitment to providing bespoke solutions to creative clients. “We bring solutions to clients, not just products; we’re very flexible in what we offer,” says Machefer.

Atria Resturant; where the lighting takes on a sculptural form.

Shaping spaces

At the core of its endeavours lies a deep-seated commitment to enhancing the aesthetic appeal and functionality of every space it illuminates. Collaborating seamlessly with architects, interior designers, and engineers, ArkLED ensures that each project reflects the client's vision while adhering to the highest quality standards.

“We have designers come to us with a sketch or an image, or sometimes an unconventional concept, and we’ll make it work,” says Machefer.

The company's approach to collaboration is as multifaceted as the projects it undertakes. Whether working hand-in-hand with lighting designers to achieve lighting effects or partnering with engineers to ensure optimal functionality, ArkLED's ability to adapt and innovate highlights it as a sought-after industry professional.

ArkLED's portfolio speaks volumes about its dedication to excellence and innovation; from luxury hotels to upscale retail stores, each project exudes a distinctive charm, seamlessly merging form and function to create unforgettable experiences through light.

ArkLED’s second project for world-class speaker manufacturer Bang & Olufsen's flagship store in Melbourne.

Illuminating visions

Machefer reflects on ArkLED's journey, saying it began with a simple yet profound realisation of the need for a fresh perspective in an industry “often overshadowed by conventional norms and exorbitant pricing.”

Machefer, drawing from 15 years of industry experience and an unwavering passion for innovation, embarked on a mission to redefine the boundaries of architectural lighting within Australia. “We focus on customising our products to satisfy the specifier's lighting desires, to fit the size or design requirements of their vision,” says Machefer.

A keen eye for untapped potential, ArkLED distinguishes itself by offering not just products, but holistic solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of each project. Flexibility, both in product offerings and pricing, lies at the heart of its philosophy, enabling the company to cater to diverse clientele without compromising on quality or creativity.

ArkLED transformed the Atria into a beacon of sophistication and elegance where the lighting takes on a sculptural form.

Atria Restaurant, Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Melbourne

One such standout project is the Atria, a captivating restaurant within Melbourne’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel that exemplifies Machefer's prowess in crafting immersive lighting experiences.

The Atria restaurant, atop Melbourne’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel, has been carefully curated with captivating, custom-made lights. Through meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of client needs, ArkLED transformed the Atria into a beacon of sophistication and elegance where the lighting takes on a sculptural form.

Read more on the project: The bespoke lighting crafted for a Melbourne restaurant.

The Atria restaurant.

Custom lights.

Bang & Olufsen's flagship store, Melbourne

ArkLED’s second project for world-class speaker manufacturer Bang & Olufsen's flagship store in Melbourne. The unique showroom, including an in-store café, is designed to embrace the Danish love of a simple aesthetic and high quality.

“We are pleased to showcase yet another Bang & Olufsen store, this time in Richmond, Melbourne, Australia. The lighting solutions highlight the classic and minimalist design frame, ensuring the Bang & Olufsen brand is embodied in this new store,” says Machefer.

Bang & Olufsen's flagship store.

Bang & Olufsen's in-store cafe.

Saint Haven Private Wellness Club, Melbourne

Visionary and property tycoon Tim Gurner’s exclusive health and social club, Saint Haven Private Wellness Club, is the first of its kind and already has a sold-out membership and lengthy waitlist.

The designer incorporated ArkLED’s lighting solutions to showcase the exclusive members-only club while highlighting the luxury gym zones, high-end bar and arched forms throughout.

Saint Haven Private Wellness Club.

Lighting by ArkLED.

Capella Hotel, Sydney

Winner of the Best Hotel Brand in the World, Travel + Leisure Awards 2023, Capella Hotel is the epitome of luxury in Sydney's historic Sandstone Precinct. ArkLED supplied 80 per cent of the custom lighting for the 192 guest rooms and suites, grand foyer and wellness centre, enhancing the architectural detail and ambience of the hotel.

The future is bright

ArkLED constantly strives to push the limits when it comes to custom architectural lighting solutions. Thanks to Machefer's unwavering dedication to creativity and client satisfaction, ArkLED seems poised to illuminate the architectural world.

For expert advice and lighting solutions for your next project, contact ArkLED today on ArchiPro.

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