Benjamin Royal Sonesta

In the lobby and reception areas, lighting is grounded by a sculptural installation that winds through the double-height space, acting as a focal point and organizing element. Composed of suspended brass rods and separately aimed spotlighting, the feature required a highly tailored approach, with each fixture carefully aimed to accentuate the dimensionality of the piece without introducing harsh shadowing. Achieving this balance demanded iterative on-site adjustments, refining the relationship between light source and object. Surrounding this centerpiece, ambient and accent lighting were calibrated to support the visual hierarchy, allowing the feature to stand out while maintaining a cohesively lit environment.

Elsewhere in the lobby, the integrated lighting elements focus on material expression and balance. A backlit feature wall required precise coordination between light output, material translucency and fixture placement to ensure it contributed to the overall composition without overwhelming adjacent elements. Throughout, color temperature played a critical role in shaping the experience: warm, dimmable sources were selected to reinforce a sense of comfort and hospitality, softening the space while maintaining function.

In the guest rooms, the lighting strategy was driven by the constraints of the retrofit, requiring a nuanced approach to upgrading performance without extensive demolition. Existing ceiling conditions were largely preserved, prompting a shift toward millwork-integrated lighting and selective fixture replacement. Downlights were retrofitted with updated LED modules and trims to improve light quality and efficiency, while linear lighting integrated into casework introduced additional layers of illumination without disrupting the architecture.