LOEGUMKLOSTER CHURCH
LØGUMKLOSTER CHURCH, LØGUMKLOSTER, DANMARK
Løgumkloster Church was built as part of the former Cistercian monastery in Løgum and dates back to the late 13th and early 14th centuries. The prolonged construction period resulted in the church incorporating two architectural styles: the early Romanesque and the later Gothic. The church is constructed from red monk bricks, which became a key consideration in the lighting design. Ensuring optimal color rendering from the light sources was of utmost importance to preserve the warm, red glow of the monk bricks.
Okholm Lighting collaborated with Jørgen Overby’s architectural studio and incorporated the idea that the chandeliers should be silvered, like much of the other church furnishings, and develop a patina over time, as untreated silver surfaces naturally do. Therefore, all the LED ring chandeliers were crafted in brass and subsequently silver-plated.
As mentioned, the color rendering of the light sources was essential, which is why all LEDs were custom-made. The chandeliers were also produced in various sizes to adapt to the dimensions of each room. Each chandelier features independent control of the up- and downlighting, optimizing the ability to create impressive lighting scenarios in the respective spaces. The adjustable up- and downlighting capabilities have created previously unseen effects, such as highlighting the craftsmanship of the vaulted ceilings.
Løgumkloster Church lighting has served as an inspiration for many parish councils when deciding on new church lighting and continues to act as an "excellent showroom for what Okholm Lighting can achieve in church lighting.
MODERN LIGHTING CAN WORK IN AN OLD CHURCH
In mid-2015, Løgumkloster Church was outfitted with entirely new lighting solutions, showcasing modern designs that remain faithful to the church’s existing aesthetic. The lighting project was led by Okholm Lighting from Tønder, as church lighting is one of their core specialties.
In Løgumkloster Church, large, elegant chandeliers with both up- and downlighting have been installed, allowing the light to be controlled independently. The chandeliers feature custom-made LEDs with high color rendering, essential for bringing out the best in the red brick walls.
Additionally, the chandeliers were designed with specific surface requirements:
"The chandeliers are made of brass and then silver-plated. Architect Jørgen Overby from Jørgen Overby’s studio came with a silver platter and said, ‘This is how they should look in a few years.’ The surfaces are therefore not lacquered, allowing them to develop a patina over time that matches the other silver elements in the church," explains Peter Okholm from Okholm Lighting.
The individual chandeliers vary in size and are tailored to the dimensions and functions of each room while adhering to the same overall concept. Thanks to one of Denmark’s last coppersmiths employed by Okholm Lighting, the church’s other metalwork, such as the candlesticks on the pews, was also provided by the company.
HOW TO ACHIEVE THE RIGHT LIGHTING LEVELS
According to Peter Okholm, many churches often lack adequate lighting. Over the past 20 years, this issue has garnered more attention, as churches serve not only as vital cultural institutions but also as workplaces for priests, sextons, organists, and others. It is therefore essential to ensure sufficient lighting for various work functions alongside church services.
"The unique aspect of church lighting projects is that, unlike private homes or businesses, they need to last for many years. We’re not talking about 5–10 years but rather 30–50 years. Additionally, lighting levels and ambiance must be considered. We ensure this with lighting calculations and the ability to dim the light, so it can be adjusted for different times of day, such as morning or evening, and seasons like summer or Christmas," explains Managing Director Peter Okholm.
At Okholm Lighting, lighting calculations are based on the size of the space and the reflectivity of its surfaces. Whitewashed walls, for example, provide excellent reflection. Calculations are always made assuming complete darkness, with natural daylight as a bonus that can be adjusted via dimming.
THE ART OF THE POSSIBLE
Designing church lighting requires not only technical expertise but also experience and an eye for detail, which a trusted advisor like Okholm Lighting can provide:
"Working with church lighting is the art of the possible. For example, you can’t always just carve new wiring into the walls. Alternative solutions must be considered. In some cases, even the National Museum must approve the installation before it can proceed," explains Peter Okholm.
"Our extensive experience with lighting and restoration projects in more than 1,500 churches means that we don’t just advise based on lighting calculations—we also have a keen eye for aesthetics. It is crucial to us that the new lighting respects the style and the space it is intended to illuminate," he adds.
AN EXCELLENT EXAMPLE
"We’ve received very positive feedback on this project. People we meet in other churches have often seen our work in Løgumkloster Church—and they are very impressed. What they especially appreciate is the overall impression and the different lighting scenarios," says Peter Okholm.
"There are also comments about how the beautifully vaulted ceiling is now fully visible. More light on the ceiling provides a completely new experience," he adds.
The positive reactions to the lighting project in Løgumkloster Church have also made it a reference point for other parish councils planning new lighting:
"It’s a great place to see modern lighting in an old church. The result is distinctive, as there are no visible light sources, like bare bulbs. This and the idea of ring chandeliers have inspired many other projects," concludes Peter Okholm from Okholm Lighting.
- Produkt:
- LED CHANDELIERS
- Material & finish:
- Built in brass, which has been silvered
- Design:
- Jørgen Overbys Tegnestue
