Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC), Bahrain’s iconic landmark has been announced the 2010 winner of ‘Best Use of Lighting – Exterior’ Award for its innovative architectural lighting design illuminating the exterior of the structure, at the inaugural PALME Middle East Awards. The awards - which recognise technical excellence in audio visual (AV), audio technology and lighting design - were held alongside the PALME exhibition, the region’s only trade event dedicated to professional lighting, audio, music, entertainment, audio visual and systems integration solutions.
Designed and engineered by Atkins, BWTC’s twin sail-shaped towers are famous for being the world’s first commercial building to incorporate large-scale wind turbines, and symbolise Bahrain’s positive approach to the principles of sustainability.
The PALME award was presented to LDP International, BWTC’s sub-consultant responsible for providing integrated lighting solution and design concept, at the ceremony held at the Al Multqua Ballroom at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, Dubai, recently.
Bob Addison, Country Manager of DTZ, BWTC’s Managing and Leasing agents in Bahrain commented: “At BWTC we have made an extraordinary effort to set a technological precedent in every aspect of this iconic project, and of course that including lighting the building exterior. The BWTC is visible from practically everywhere in Bahrain, and its stunning external illuminations have been a key reason for its iconic status as a feature on the Manama skyline. Not only is the technology cutting edge, but it is adaptable to suit various lighting schemes, for example the recent World Autism Awareness Day when we lit up entirely in blue to support the condition in conjunction with the United Nations.”
Inspiration for the lighting concept was driven by the iconic architecture visualised by Atkins’ studio. The location and coastal setting created opportunities for interesting play and interaction of movement and light. Lights follow the curved elliptical form linked by the BWTC’s three bridges incorporating the feature wind turbines. These three 29m diameter turbines produce 11-15% of the towers’ electrical requirement and are very much the focal point of the project.
