PKE GmbH successfully executes historic hall’s transition from halogen to LED
Stefaniensaal, a renowned concert hall in Graz, Austria, recently enhanced its lighting system by installing Elation’s cutting-edge FUZE PENDANT downlighting fixtures. Media technology firm PKE GmbH successfully implemented this state-of-the-art upgrade, with lighting solutions specifically tailored to meet the needs of the historic venue.
In the heart of Graz’s Congress Center, Stefaniensaal is celebrated for its stunning architecture and acoustics, including a magnificent pipe organ. With a capacity of 1,100, it is one of the most beautiful concert halls in the world and is home to the city’s Recreation Orchestra.
The hall hosts various events, from classical concerts and balls to conferences, congresses, and presentations. It required a lighting solution that was not only versatile but also sensitive to the space's historic and aesthetic features. PKE GmbH, an expert in media and technical installations, delivered the sophisticated solution.
PKE GmbH Leads the Installation
PKE GmbH’s Graz branch was responsible for the overall coordination and successful execution of the lighting project, ensuring seamless integration with the hall’s existing infrastructure. In collaboration with NFMedia, which supported the project in planning and product selection, PKE upgraded the hall’s lighting system to meet modern energy and performance standards while preserving the integrity of the venue’s rich history.
FUZE PENDANT
Energy savings are an ever-important consideration, and coupled with the increasing difficulty in finding replacement bulbs for halogen spotlights and lighting conditions that were too dim for many types of events, the decision was made to upgrade. A fixture demo with the FUZE PENDANT was conducted on-site, primarily to ensure that the beam angle was optimal.
The FUZE PENDANT system, selected for its fanless design, LED efficiency, and interchangeable lenses, replaced the venue’s old 500W halogen spotlights. The FUZE fixtures not only provide energy savings—each fixture has a max power consumption of only 230W while producing a fraction of the heat of a traditional halogen system—but also offer high light output and maintenance-free operation, allowing for greater flexibility and enhanced creativity in lighting design for various events.
Change Ambiance as Needed
With each fixture individually controllable and capable of color temperature adjustment from 2,400K to 8,500K, the hall can easily change the feel of the room whenever needed. The fixture’s full-spectrum RGBWL color-mixing system can deliver high-quality white light or seamlessly switch between beautiful saturates and pastels. Presets with various color temperatures were implemented for the client within the existing control system, while a lighting console is used to customize the design for more sophisticated events.
Silent Operation
A key feature of the FUZE PENDANT system is its innovative fanless operation, which ensures that the lighting remains completely silent during performances—an essential requirement for classical concerts. Additionally, the passive cooling system minimizes the risk of dust contamination and reduces the need for frequent maintenance. The fixtures fit perfectly into the existing ceiling openings and, therefore, flush with the Stefaniensaal’s exquisite stucco ceiling, preserving the aesthetic beauty of the hall.
As is often the case in historically old buildings, wiring was an issue to be tackled. The existing dimmers were no longer needed, a fixed power line was laid, and DMX was installed, as it had not been necessary in this location before. Elektro Friebe GmbH was responsible for the electrical installation.
Aesthetic Enhancement
The lighting upgrade has vastly improved the illumination of the audience area. With the installation of 44 FUZE PENDANT fixtures (light throw is 12 meters), the lighting upgrade achieved a uniform light level of 500 lux while also offering dynamic color-changing capabilities to suit a variety of events. The first event using the new lighting system, a dance ball, was held in mid-January, just one day after commissioning, and the client was delighted with the results.
A Future-Proof Solution for Historic Spaces
As a leader in media installation, PKE GmbH continues to provide advanced technical solutions for spaces that require both innovation and sensitivity to historic architecture. The lighting upgrade at Stefaniensaal, in cooperation with NFMedia, is a testament to PKE’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology while maintaining the integrity and charm of Austria’s cultural landmarks.
About Elation
At Elation, we represent the elite in the lighting industry. We design and manufacture a comprehensive range of best-in-class entertainment lighting products valued by production/rental houses and lighting designers worldwide. Our dedication to extraordinary quality and creative solutions has established us as the go-to choice for professionals. With a storied legacy of brilliance, our influence extends from iconic stages to cutting-edge studios across the globe. We also offer an advanced line of lighting control products through Obsidian Control Systems and a full range of dependable specialty effects called Magmatic. We invite you to take a closer look at www.elationlighting.com and elation.global.
