Zumtobel and its sister brand Thorn, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, have completed a full lighting scheme for the refurbishment of Sacred Heart University’s Dingle campus in County Kerry, Ireland.
The €8 million (£6.9 million) project forms part of a wider regeneration of the site, which includes the restored 19th-century Christian Brothers School and newer additions created to support the university’s study-abroad programme.
The Dingle campus hosts more than 500 students each year and is located in a protected building overlooking the Atlantic.
The redevelopment, officially opened in March 2025 by Minister Norma Foley, introduced modern learning facilities while retaining the structure’s original form and character.
Blending heritage and contemporary lighting needs
MRG Consulting Engineers & Architects and Freeman Electrical Services set performance requirements for the lighting installation, including heritage sensitivity and operational durability.
During the early design phase, Zumtobel was asked to explore alternative fitting options, producing models and visualisations to demonstrate the performance of its original recessed SLOTLIGHT design, which was ultimately retained.
A wide range of luminaires was selected for interior spaces. Classrooms and seminar rooms feature Beta 3, Chalice 3, and IQ Wave lighting, chosen for uniform illumination and glare control.
Track-mounted VIVO fittings highlight existing stonework, while custom SLOTLIGHT infinity Round pendants in a red finish provide focal points within circulation areas and echo campus colours.
Absence detection and daylight sensors are integrated throughout the interior lighting to balance operation against occupancy and natural light levels.
Lighting tailored to the environment
To meet the seaside location’s environmental demands, Thorn’s external luminaires incorporate corrosion-resistant treatments.
Bollards include built-in power outlets and a combination of façade uplighting, lanterns, and floodlighting provides safety and architectural enhancement across the campus exterior.
Indoor colour temperatures were specified to create different atmospheres: 3000K for shared and social areas, and 4000K for teaching environments.
Outdoor lighting balances warmer tones for sandstone with cooler whites for limestone, highlighting architectural details after dark.
Project partners highlighted the importance of retaining authenticity while updating functionality. One consultant described the process as a balance between honouring heritage and ensuring modern performance, while the electrical contractor said durability and serviceability were key priorities.
According to the project team, the scheme provides modern, low-maintenance lighting while respecting the campus’s historic fabric.
The completed installation is intended to support the student community and campus visitors while reducing ongoing maintenance demands.
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