Intricate light slashes are cast across the interior walls in angular motions that are representative of the architecture. These slashes are emitted from the ceiling slots by theatrical metal halide fixtures with carefully adjusted metal shutters in each source. Metal halide spotlights are also housed in the ceiling slots and are used to spotlight various elements of Rockwell’s interior concourse.
The walls and ceiling ledges house almost 1000 LED fixtures that up-light the ceiling and vary in color tones to reflect shifts in daylight. Designing the slots to conceal these ceiling fixtures proved to be one of the greatest challenges at the CityCenter.
Other lit features in the space include the backlit Grand Staircase and the terrace dining of Mastro’s Ocean Club located in Crystals’ dramatic treehouse. The pink agate stair riser is backlit with white LEDs, providing energy efficiency and minimal maintenance. The elaborate Treehouse’s resin bands are backlit with LED strip-lights which are incorporated into the structure. Accents located within the actual structure; as well accents from the main ceiling highlight the Treehouse from above and within.
The Crystals façade and roof are made of a unique brushed and ribbed metal that reflect light in waves as one moves past the building. Accents mounted in the hardscape which surrounds the building up-light the façade in two layers of light; the base and the height.
Sculptures by Claude and Francois-Xavier Lalanne, Claes Oldenburg & Coosje van Bruggen, and Henry Moore are all lit by Focus Lighting, as well as the walkways, bridges, traffic circles, and podiums throughout CityCenter. LED handrails and carefully positioned metal halide accents illuminate these unique pieces of art.
The lighting for the roadside marquee and sign atop the ARIA building were also designed by Focus Lighting. The marquee sign was inspired by cubist artist Braque. Subtle shifts on the panel’s surface are reinforced by bands of light. The large sign atop the ARIA tower is lit entirely with LEDs. Blue LEDs backlight the acrylic letter forms and white LEDs line the perimeter, creating a rock-star sparkle around its edges.
Over three years, many drawings, three models, and number of full-scale mock-ups were put forth to realize the multifaceted lighting scheme now seen at Crystals at CityCenter.
