Observing the sky is an endless source of wonder. Ora Blu is a site-specific lighting device that mimics the dynamic beauty of this experience indoors. Through advanced light control, intricate programming, and a unique reflective finish, it transforms spaces into vibrant, atmospheric experiences.
Compelling concept of Ora Blu is interior exteriority—bringing the essence of the external environment into interior spaces. Designed to enhance well-being, it reconnects natural bio-rhythms through the stimulation of Ganglion Cells, and it’s particularly beneficial for individuals working in confined spaces or affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Its applications range from office and healthcare environments—including ultra-confined spaces or sub-intensive therapy areas—to artistic installations.
Solidly grounded in scientific and cultural research, Ora Blu bridges perception and reality, crafting environments that evoke both comfort and awe.
The system comprises three primary components:
Ora Blu’s transformative finish, developed through extensive research into metamerism, reemits light on vertical surfaces. Unlike conventional finishes, it’s engineered for heightened spectral sensitivity, responding intensely to subtle shifts in light wavelengths. This groundbreaking innovation makes colors appear fluid and almost breathing with light.
The relationship between light and material lies at the intersection of science, perception, and design. Durable and versatile, this finish adapts to various spaces, applied directly to walls or panels.
The system employs advanced controls to deliver dynamic, site-specific lighting effects, autonomously adjusting to each space’s needs based on time and location. For example, in winter, Ora Blu extends sunset in offices for continued activity after dark, while east-facing walls replicate cool morning hues, and west-facing walls reflect sunset tones.
The control system is built on an Arduino platform programmed in C to control individually addressable LEDs with precision. The software integrates external data, including geographic location and light orientation, to fine-tune the lighting output. Pre-programmed algorithms adjust color and intensity, simulating real-time light shifts. The system is designed to scale, with plans to include IoT compatibility via MQTT for remote updates and integration with external data sources, like weather APIs.
Light is emitted by individually addressable RGBW LEDs, housed in sleek, minimal profiles that slightly protrude from the wall and interact with the painted surface. The scalable, modular profiles allow customization for all spaces.
The pioneering integration of these specific components advances lighting design, merging light and surface into a cohesive experience. This methodological approach fosters a dialogue between materiality, perception, and the fluid nature of light, uncovering new ways to manipulate depth, simulate atmosphere, and enhance well-being, while illustrating the fluidity of time.
Ora Blu exemplifies conscious design, reducing environmental impact with on-demand components, flat-packed shipping, and longevity-focused construction for easy maintenance. Aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 11, it promotes well-being and sustainable urban living.
The [d]arc awards entry presents a vision for the future of lighting, rooted in biomimicry and extending beyond technical innovation into the realm of awe.
_Patent Pending, 2024_
