Tree rings are among the most special of custom fixtures created by B-K Lighting. They not only include aspects typical to all customs like special sources, transformer or ballast requirements and finishes but also must be designed into include a living, breathing partner; the tree itself.
The host continues to dynamically change throughout the day's temperature changes and the seasons while the mounting diameter to which the fixture is installed slowly changes over time. One of the challenges of a tree ring is how to keep the fixture assembly stable while providing a way to "grow the fixture" to avoid life-threating damage to the tree.
Each tree ring includes an adjustable system of aluminum feet that will accommodate the tree and the lighting designer's needs (without having to replace the entire assembly). Each individual foot can be adjusted to level the platform and incrementally adjust the fit of the tree ring assembly. This system also allows minute adjustment of the lighting beyond the innovative, toothless knuckle systems (the L.O.C.K., 360SL, 360HD) B-K Lighting has implemented for years on all of its adjustable floodlights.
Visitors have commented that the lighting scene at the Palm Court Plaza recalls the exotic look of the lotus colonnade found at the Temple of Luxor, Egypt but the Great Balloon clearly marks it as a California-only situational! Regardless of the actual viewpoint this project is simply breathtaking. The plaza is part of the Palm Court Arts Complex and is located in the Orange County Great Park (formerly known as Marine Corps Air Station El Toro).
The tree-rings are mounted approxmiately 60% up the tree's total height.
The drama created by the tree rings is substantial, completely transforming the space.
The park's great orange balloon working with the evocative lighting creates a unique and beautiful project.
Product(s) Used: Artistar™ Integral Metal Halide (ES16), c1955-04, c1955-74
Landscape Architect: Ken Smith
Lighting Specifier: Conti Lighting Design
Sales Representative: Enterprise Lighting Sales
Photo Credit: © Orange County Great Park Corp., Nick Gallegos.