Pier One is situated on a former real-life pier originally constructed in 1912. The location affords spectacular views over Sydney Harbour. Electrolight were appointed lighting designers to provide a scheme to compliment the client and architect’s vision for a modern interpretation of a casual sea-side hotel with a touch of elegance and nostalgia.

During the daylight hours, surrounding glazing and harbour reflections provide an abundance of natural light. To retain a level of ambience required a thoughtful approach to surface brightness. After twilight, the space offers a mix of warm timber, raw metal finishes and discernable heritage structures for interpretation through the medium of light. The challenge was to create a lighting scheme which worked for both day and night, allowing the new interiors and original structures to shine, and introducing light artistically without feeling forced or pushing an opposing trend.

A blend of colour temperatures, intensity and concealment brings the setting to life and allows the character of the space to sing. The glasses above the bar provide a subtle sparkle, illuminated from behind, while brass wall lights capture the warmth of the timber. Illumination appears to live within the structural fabric, captivating the elements which make this space unique.

High-level wall lights, combined with Reggiani Yori Track lighting provide light to the ceiling structure, timber walls and bar and restaurant seating.

It was agreed that the high space above the bar required a feature that worked with the nautical theme of the wharf and it’s history. Electrolight pitched an idea for a light-art sculpture, inspired by the organic form and movement of the ocean’s creatures and the way modern yachts replicate these same movements. The commissioned work, named ‘Squelette’, was both conceptualised and detailed by the Electrolight team in Sydney. The detailed design was quite a process, with over 300 parts requiring site assembly, each component suspended utilising gravity to hold it’s intended form.