AARHUS CATHEDRAL

The Aarhus Cathedral has a long history. It was inaugurated in the 12th Century and has been rebuilt and expanded several times during the last 800 years. The cathedral is situated on the port side of a large central square, Store Torv. It is the longest and tallest church in Denmark, with a length of 93 metres and a height of 96 metres and it seats approx. 1200 people. The cathedral is frequently used for concerts as well as normal services. Because of the footprint Aarhus Cathedral is a significant structure in relation to defining the neighbouring squares and city spaces. Due to the dramatic height it’s a visible landmark from most of the dense streets of the inner city as well as from a distance.

Kollision was asked by Aarhus Cathedral and The Municipality of Aarhus to develop a strategy for illuminating the cathedral. The ideas was to create a lighting design providing the building with a natural, yet subtle presence in the city by the use of modern LED fixtures. Powerful wash lights and spots were chosen through series of tests and design workshops together with SGM, testing possible positions and addressing installation issues. To avoid dramatic uplights, we decided to approach the neighbours about installing light sources on the rooftops of their buildings. As a result the cathedral is lit on the main facades facing the two adjacent squares, Store Torv and Bispetorv, and an additional 360 degree coverage of the spire. All light sources are wirelessly controlled from one central position by the use of Kollision’s MAP software. The light sources and control system facilitate a 3-dimensional lighting control of the cathedral and in RGB colours which, in the daily expression, is used to keep the red brick wall warmly lit, while the copper roof lighting is colder. At special events this functionality can be used for a more colourful and dynamic illumination.

Kollision facilitated and coordinated the process between the stakeholders designed, detailed and programmed the installation in dialogue with SGM who supplied fixtures and Strøm Hansen who carried out the installation. The installation is funded by NRGI’s værdipulje, The Municipality of Aarhus and Aarhus Cathedral.