Philips Design has applied its visionary expertise in public lighting in the transformation of an industrial site into an inspirational blend of commercial, residential and recreational facilities.

A former Philips industrial site in the city center of Eindhoven, The Netherlands, recently began the first phase of its transformation into a 'creative community'. Over the next 10 years or so, the area's historical buildings, together with new developments, will become home to a unique, inspirational blend of commercial, residential and recreational facilities.

A fundamental part of this transformation will be the way lighting is used in public spaces. Given Eindhoven's rich lighting heritage, it was an express wish of the city council that light effects used in the area should be creative and inspirational. "Philips Design’s previous investigations into lighting public spaces were the perfect foundation on which to begin building original and inspiring concepts," says Lorna Goulden, Creative Director for Strategic Future Design at Philips Design. "In fact, lighting is playing such an integral role in transforming this area, that it has been considered even before the architecture has been fully developed.”

Philips Design has been instrumental in developing the lighting vision for the area, known locally as Strijp-S, and is currently, together with Philips Lighting, working on the implementation plans.

+ Find out more about the fascinating role of light in creating a brand new identity for the area