Lighting up
pride in the city
across the city, emphasizing major landmarks such as the Marktplein (Market Square) and the Raadhuisplein (Town Hall Square).”
- Studio DL, responsible for lighting design during the Emmen project
In order to boost the city’s economy, generate employment and enhance its international role, Emmen City Center Renovation Project included a new lighting concept. One of the key challenges was achieving the transformation in a busy urban area within a very short timeframe. The project also devoted attention to the aesthetic image of the city at night. The idea was to create atmospheric public spaces for residents and visitors that would be more appealing to spend time in, and to give the city center a distinctive appearance at night.
Despite many challenges, the city including four key areas, the Town Hall Square, the Market Square, the Boulevards and the Hondsrug Tunnel, each having its own individual lighting requirements, was transformed in a relatively short space of time. The metamorphosis has turned Emmen into a beautifully cohesive, inviting and accessible city while preserving its green and open character.
Using light to reflect the characteristics and ambience of each area has played a significant role in the project’s success. Today, all light sources in downtown Emmen are controlled by the Interact City lighting management software, providing the city with a great level of control as well as flexibility in terms of scheduling and managing lighting. It is now possible to define dimming profiles for weekends, for summer and winter, and for specific events.
An economic analysis calculated that the renovation project would generate 4,700 hours of work during the construction and 820 structural jobs after completion. “Clearly, the investment provides a significant boost to the city’s economy,” says Van der Tuin.