Light + Sound

This spring, LightArt is taking a bold step in lighting design with the launch of an acoustic lighting collection. Traditionally known for their decorative lighting solutions, the Seattle-based lighting manufacturer will enter a new category this year with a collection of modular fixtures that integrate high performance lighting and sound absorption.

LightArt introduced the Acoustic Collection during NYCxDesign with the debut of two acoustic fixtures - Static and Echo. Static is a beam-shaped modular lighting solution that delivers both high performance lighting and acoustic value. Using some of the highest efficiency LED modules on the market, Static offers two directional lighting and has 1% dimming capabilities. Echo, a fixture consisting of a series of angled fins, is intended to be specified as a system of fixtures to create a striking geometric ceiling landscape, with the unique ability to provide both a lighting and sound solution.

With the Acoustic Collection, LightArt is also introducing a new material for the first time in the Seattle lighting company's eleven year history - 50% recycled PET felt - a material that provides a contemporary aesthetic while adding softness and texture to overhead lighting. LightArt tested the acoustic performance of the material at the largest reverberation chamber in the world - NWAA Labs in Elma, Washington. Static's material and assembly received an NRC rating ranging from .80 to 1.00, proving the fixture's high performance capabilities.

Lighting offers an opportunity to put an acoustic solution closer to the source of sound, which increases the effciency of the absorption, while also offering a more seamless way to integrate solutions into the environment. Both Static and Echo can be arrayed for significant absorption coverage in spaces where poor acoustics can be distracting such as open workplace environments, conference rooms, classrooms and restaurants. The new Acoustic collection provides an architectural lighting solution, sound absorption, and natural texture to effectively create a new category of lighting possibilities.

With LightArt's first venture into architectural lighting, the company wanted to create a line of fixtures that embraces a range of social and creative work experiences. The integration of light and sound seemed like a natural next step for the forward-thinking lighting company, "We are always taking two things and putting them together for the architectural environment so this was a natural progression for us," says Ryan Smith, Founder and Creative Director of LightArt. This new line of high performance lighting aims to help designers improve communication, enhance interactions and create harmony in active environments.