CBG Light Perceptions, a specialist lighting design team working primarily in heritage buildings and high-end residential properties, recently worked on the restoration of the Blenheim Palace Orangery by designing an updated lighting scheme on a project that has received a 2025 RIBA South Award.
The Orangery, a “refined and luxurious” dining area in Blenheim Palace, is now once again open to the public for an “authentically British experience.” Known for hosting afternoon teas, the space also serves as a private venue for fine dining, weddings, and other special occasions.
The £2 million restoration project on the Grade I listed building involved the replacement of the 19th-century glass roof with a solid, insulated steel and slate design.
CBG Light Perceptions were tasked with overhauling the previous lighting design, which was known to generate glare and excessive brightness. The company says it has achieved a lighting design which complements the striking architectural textures of the new roof and captures the essence of the Orangery.
The RIBA South Award recognises the efforts of all involved for reassessing the requirements of the space and coming up with innovative, sustainable solutions to improve the functionality and aesthetics of the Orangery. Specifically, the jury commented, “Boldly stepping away from an attitude of like-for-like repair typical in such a significant heritage setting, the project team at Blenheim Palace chose a new route for the design and delivery of the Orangery roof.”
Working alongside the client’s team, Historic England, the council, architects, and interior designers on the comprehensive refurbishment, CBG needed to consider a new lighting scheme that enhanced both the practicality and the atmosphere of the space. The design delivered improved lighting throughout the Orangery while also providing a sustainable, low-energy approach.
The new scheme hopes to ensure flexibility for a wide range of uses, with discreet spotlighting allowing for tailored setups during events, and a pre-set dimming system enabling staff to adjust lighting levels depending on the occasion.
The result is a lighting system that showcases the architectural fabric of the Orangery. The recognition of the overall project at the RIBA South Awards, held at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery in Hampshire in May 2025, is, according to the company, a testament to the care and collaboration invested in every element from all those involved.
Bruce Kirk, Director at CBG, comments, “Successful lighting is built on a deep understanding of the space and close collaboration with the client and teams involved. Thoughtful project consultation with the client and stakeholders allows us to deliver tailored solutions that respect the heritage of a building while meeting the evolving needs of its users.”
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