An Enlightening Education – Geldern Vocational College
More than 2000 students build the foundations of their professional future at Geldern Vocational College. That makes the vocational education center in the Lower Rhine municipality of Kleve one of the largest in North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany. In just under two-and-a-half years of construction and with a budget of 36 million euros, a multi-functional and architecturally remarkable complex was created – and showcased with BEGA luminaires.
The college consists of a main building which houses classrooms, an assembly hall, a cafeteria and administration. On either side of the main building are single-and two-story buildings housing workshops and technology spaces. The architecture of the new construction is reminiscent of early modern industrial buildings, with the function of each unit dictating its style.
Although the vocational college was built in a predominantly commercial environment, the landscape architects of GEO3 in Bedburg-Hau managed to preserve the rural character typical of the Lower Rhine region. Various water and vegetation zones, as well as green areas around the buildings give students the opportunity to combine indoor education with outdoor relaxation.
The pathways near the buildings and water features are lined with shielded BEGA system bollards, whose light is emitted 360 degrees. Light building elements evenly illuminate the front courtyard. The light is simultaneously reflected by the building and directed onto the ground by a reflector. BEGA ceiling and wall luminaires are positioned between windows, accentuating the coal-fired bricks of the striking façade. The BEGA luminaires therefore make an essential contribution to the architectural theme of Geldern Vocational College: the combination of function and aesthetics.
To recreate the pathway lighting expertise showcased in this project, check out our recent article Lighting a Path with Bollards, and learn more about how to enhance your lighting design using these diverse luminaires.
Luminaires Used
