new york-based design studio SOFTlab has completed a permanent light installation in the historic lobby of 315 montgomery in san francisco. titled stratus, the installation comprises two layers of brass pipes containing a series of LED lights programmed with a subtle light pattern that simulates air flow. 

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
commissioned by new york–based vornado realty trust, the installation provides a changing atmospheric backdrop for the lobby that can be seen from the street

 

 

SOFTlab arranges the brass tubes along two staggered layers, punctuated by a cloud-like pattern of laster-cut holes that gives the animated light a three dimensional effect. this effect is enhanced as the light from one tube reflects off of its neighbors. during the day the assembly comes together in the shape of a light organ, while at night, the tubes fade into the background and the cloud-like LEDs appear to flow through the back wall of the lobby.

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
an irregular pattern of holes was designed to enhance the atmospheric nature of the animating LEDs

 

 

315 montgomery street, part of the bank of america complex, is a 16-story office tower in the financial district of san francisco which was originally built in 1922. on view from the street 24 hours a day, stratus provides a minimal backdrop to the rich detailing of the lobby. the installation measures 126″ tall by 120″ wide by 8″ deep and is on view from the street 24 hours a day.

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
the LEDs are programmed to produce a generative cloud-like animation that is never the same

 

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
custom LED and diffuser assemblies were made to keep them as slender as possible and integrate them into the brass tubes

 

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
two layers of staggered brass tubes allowing the LEDs to reflect off their neighbors combining the white light with the color of the brass giving the installation a thickened material-like quality

 

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
the structure and electronics are housed in a brass assembly that floats in front of the plaster wall

 

SOFTlab creates light organ by layering an array of LED-filled brass pipes stratus
the installation is detailed in a way to make it as minimal as possible against the rich architectural detailing of the lobby