Beijing Jinyu Vanke Plaza: A Magic Box of Light

LDPi (China Branch) Transforms Shopping Center into a Luminous Spectacle

The inspiration behind the exterior lighting was to create a 'magic box' that would have a distinct character by day and night. During the day, the shopping center presents a glass box with neutral color palette, but as darkness falls, it comes alive with color-changing lights. This transformation is made possible by low-voltage 5500K white LED strips hidden under the arc-shaped pattern behind the glass curtain. High-voltage RGB linear LED projectors further enhance the texture of the facades while enabling color-change in the glass box.

The interior lighting, created in collaboration with interior designer Benoy, adds another dimension to the 'magic box'. The dreamlike experience is accentuated by a surprising view of stars through its organically-shaped skylight. The skylight is not just a decorative feature, but also a functional element that harvests daylight, reducing the interior energy consumption.

Realizing this design was not without its challenges. The facade lighting effect required several 1:1 mockups to determine the most efficient lighting effect. The team had to consider beam angles, wattage, and color temperature, as well as the exact installation points for the lighting fixtures in the glass box behind the curtain wall.

Despite these challenges, the Beijing Jinyu Vanke Plaza stands as a testament to the innovative use of lighting in architecture. The shopping center, which opened at the end of 2013, includes a department store, supermarket, entertainment facilities, restaurants, and other services. It is a shining example of how design can transform a functional space into a visual spectacle.

The Beijing Jinyu Vanke Plaza is not just a shopping center, but a luminous landmark that brings international style to the up-and-coming district of Changping. Its unique design has earned it the Golden A' Lighting Products and Fixtures Design Award in 2015, a prestigious accolade granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom.