For more than 100 years, the Byzantine and Romanesque style of the Cathedral Basilica has been recognized as one of the most beautiful churches in the U.S. Enhancing the presentation of the Cathedral’s mosaics was a journey of discovery; the reflective characteristics of the glass tessera made lighting angles critical to revealing the richness and texture of the mosaics. Illuminating 22,000,000 tiles necessitated distributions, from 4 deg to 50 deg, including custom spread lenses. Luminaires were mounted discreetly in flanking upper galleries and corner dome towers.
At the 140-ft center dome apex, an existing oculus was repurposed to accommodate an armature of narrow distribution, 200-W, LED floodlights. Each fixture is focused to a specific floor target through the aperture. The framework height was idealized to allow cross-aiming to 70% of the Nave. The design reduced power by 87% and tripled light levels to 30 footcandles. The Baldachin is adorned with mosaics atop the dome and beneath it. Existing lanterns became positions for miniature LED accents, focused to the ceiling and walls. All lighting is controlled through a DMX system using presets established for daily and special events. Docents leading tours use wireless devices to activate key lighted mosaics, enhancing the storytelling experience.
