In collaboration with design lead Bluehaus, we created a lighting scheme for the refurbishment of Dubai Holding’s headquarters in Dubai. Formerly a warehouse, the building has been transformed into a contemporary, design-led workplace, which retains its industrial character while introducing relaxed communal areas, open breakout areas and modern work environments.
The brief called for a contemporary lighting scheme that honoured the building’s past life while answering the needs of a dynamic workplace. The key challenge was integrating light within a space defined by ultra-high ceilings and exposed industrial elements. Our lighting solution needed to provide warmth and comfort for occupants while reinforcing the original design narrative.
The central atrium serves as a vibrant hub that accommodates a variety of working styles through casual breakout areas and enclosed meeting rooms. To preserve the industrial character of the double-height space, a suspended track and spotlight system was integrated below the ceiling, producing a subtle layer of ambient light without any structural intervention. At a lower level, a softer lighting language was achieved through a combination of flush-mounted downlights and decorative pendants.
In the café, the lighting takes it cue from the building’s warehouse heritage. A dramatic, structural light installation forms the main focal point of the space and is complemented by minimalist downlights, wall lights and concealed joinery lighting. These carefully positioned elements boost light levels around the key gathering points without compromising the industrial feel.
Exposed industrial pipework is a defining feature within the open-plan work zones. We navigated this important structural element by introducing the same track and spotlight system used in the communal areas. Suspended linear fixtures were then installed above the desks to provide functional task illumination.
A DALI lighting control system was integrated throughout the workplace, providing pre-programmed scenes for different zones and enabling occupants to tailor the mood and intensity of the lighting to their individual preferences and working practices.
