Local Blackfriars

The complex

RICOMAN was involved in a big apartment lighting project by Salboy, finalised in 2017. Lighting was for a new luxury gated community complex in Manchester City Centre. The complex has been architecturally blended into a Grade II-listed former public house – which has been repurposed as a gateway entrance. It is the Local Blackfriars.

RICOMAN were tasked with providing lighting solutions for the residential areas which include 380 apartments, townhouses and penthouses. RICOMAN also had the task of providing lighting solutions for a number of other areas of the buildings. These include communal areas, a state of the art gymnasium, cycle store, reception areas, carpark, mechanical/electrical riser, commercial offices, tank room, bin store and emergency lighting throughout.

The story

The consultants involved in the initial design sought high-quality architectural and commercial luminaires which reflected the developments and the vibrant community it would encompass. They aimed to create an environment which promotes a more convenient life and a more comfortable environment. Energy consumption was also a concern, as the lights can be on for twelve hours or more per night in winter. Therefore, the luminaires required a proven long lifetime to reduce the frequency of replacement.

Consultants gave RICOMAN a large specification list of luminaires of varying types which were required across the complex. Many of the luminaires specified were already in our product range, however, there were some products which were not in existence at the time. We were able to customise some of our existing products to meet the specification as well as develop a completely bespoke luminaire.

RICOMAN stayed in constant contact with the consultants and architects throughout the project via a dedicated duo of project manager and lighting designer. By maintaining a constant dialogue between RICOMAN and the consultants were able to ensure the project ran smoothly. Both parts managed efficiently any changes in the project requirements, ensuring the luminaires arrived on time.

The outcome

The outcome of the project is excellent, with the luminaires complimenting an excellent design aesthetic of the building. Optimum light levels goes together and adding style with the luminaires’ architectural appearance.

When a big block of flats is involved, an apartment lighting project involves lighting for the communal areas as well:

Here are the luminaires installed: