Lighting the Abbey Ruins

When the restored Reading Abbey Ruins were officially reopened to the public, Stuart Melrose was commissioned to create the lighting design that would transform one of the town's most important historic landmarks into a spectacular evening experience. Working alongside the event organisers, Stuart Melrose supplied, programmed and operated the complete lighting installation for both the Abbey Ruins and the main performance stage, creating a striking visual centrepiece that celebrated the history of the site while marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for one of Reading's most treasured heritage locations.

Creating an Unforgettable Launch Event The project combined architectural lighting, live production and creative storytelling to reveal the scale, texture and character of the medieval ruins after dark. Rather than simply illuminating the structure, the lighting was carefully designed to enhance the unique architectural features of the Abbey, creating atmosphere, depth and a constantly evolving visual experience throughout the evening. Every aspect of the lighting production was managed by Stuart Melrose, from supplying the equipment and programming the lighting sequences to controlling the show live during the event. The result was a seamless production that complemented speeches, live performances and the celebrations taking place across the evening.

Apollo became the next step in that investigation.

Over the course of six weeks, the original prototype evolved through continual refinement as different forms, proportions and construction methods were explored. More than simply designing a coffee table, the project became an exercise in understanding structure, balance and the relationship between negative space and solid form.

02.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Conso nantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove.

03.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Conso nantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove.

Client : The Ark Building

Scope : Interior Design, AutoCAD