Lighting refurbishment in existing buildings
LED retrofits, lighting refurbishment and bespoke lighting solutions for existing buildings.
A professional lighting refurbishment modernises existing systems in every respect: technically, in terms of energy efficiency and in terms of design. In offices, schools, administrative buildings, public buildings, foyers or high-end existing properties, simply converting to LED lamps is often not enough. The key factor is whether light quality, standards, ceiling structure, glare, control systems and architecture are all in harmony.
SATTLER develops lighting refurbishment solutions for existing buildings, for projects where efficiency and design must be considered together. We assess existing luminaires, ceiling cut-outs and installation scenarios, and use this information to develop an LED solution that complements the architecture – from retrofitting to LED to bespoke refurbishment luminaires.
What does ‘lighting refurbishment’ mean?
Lighting refurbishment involves more than simply replacing old light sources. A high-quality lighting refurbishment takes the entire system into account: the existing building structure, the use of the space, visual tasks, light distribution, glare control, control systems, maintenance requirements and architectural impact.
Search queries such as ‘converting fluorescent lamps to LED’ often describe only the first step. In professional projects, the aim is usually to modernise an existing system in such a way that energy consumption is reduced, light quality is improved and the existing infrastructure is retained. Particularly when renovating an existing property, a well-planned solution is often more sustainable than a simple one-for-one replacement.
Why renovate now?
Many older lighting systems result in high energy and maintenance costs. Outdated fluorescent lamps, uneven illumination, glare or outdated light quality have a direct impact on working comfort, orientation and the overall atmosphere of a space.
- A professional lighting refurbishment offers several benefits at once:
- Lower electricity consumption thanks to modern LED technology
- less maintenance required thanks to long-lasting components
- better light quality and a more pleasant environment
- Lighting that complies with standards for work and traffic areas
- Preservation of existing ceiling structures and architectural details
- A basis for DALI, sensor technology, presence detection or daylight control
This is how simply switching to LED lighting can be transformed into a future-proof lighting refurbishment project for existing buildings.
Our approach: lighting refurbishment with architectural flair
SATTLER is the right partner when renovating existing buildings where not only technology but also design matters. We view lighting as an integral part of architecture and develop solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing spaces.
Our solutions are characterised by:
- Bespoke refurbishment luminaires for existing recessed installations
- Use of existing ceiling cut-outs, grids and structures
- High-quality LED technology with excellent light quality
- Anti-glare solutions for offices, schools, administrative buildings and public spaces
- Customised solutions for illuminated ceilings, light panels, handrails or historic buildings
- Comprehensive support from analysis through to implementation
Rather than using standard LED panels, we assess which solution is best suited to the room, its intended use and the design concept.
What sort of projects is SATTLER suitable for?
Our solutions are particularly well suited to projects where the existing architecture is to be preserved whilst undergoing technical modernisation.
Typical areas of application:
- Office buildings and ‘New Work’ spaces
- Schools, universities and public institutions
- Administrative offices, town halls and municipal buildings
- Hotels, reception areas, foyers and stairwells
- Production halls, traffic areas and ancillary areas
- Churches, cultural buildings and historic buildings
- Existing properties subject to ESG or efficiency requirements
Anyone undertaking refurbishment work on existing buildings who values light quality, durability and seamless integration will find that SATTLER does not offer a standard solution, but rather a bespoke lighting concept tailored to the specific project.
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Janine Schneider
The process of a lighting refurbishment
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1. Analyse the stock
We inspect existing luminaires, ceilings, cut-outs, electrical infrastructure, usage and lighting requirements.
2. Develop a refurbishment planThe analysis results in a detailed plan for the lighting refurbishment: luminaire types, light distribution, control systems, installation, budget and possible options.
3. Plan and sample the LED solutionDepending on the project, we use standard luminaires, customised luminaires or bespoke designs. On request, we can assist with sample provision, lighting calculations and technical data.
4. Implementation in existing buildingsThe refurbishment is planned in such a way as to make the most efficient use of existing structures. This minimises the need for structural alterations and makes it easier to carry out the work whilst operations continue.
5. Evaluate the resultOnce the project has been completed, the focus will be on improved lighting quality, lower energy consumption and a modernised interior design.
Upgrading lighting systems can significantly reduce electricity consumption and maintenance costs. Particularly in buildings that are in use for long periods – such as offices, schools, administrative buildings or production halls – switching to LED lighting often pays for itself quickly.
It is not only the luminaires themselves that are economically significant, but the entire system:
- Performance and efficiency of LED modules
- Light distribution and the number of lights required
- Control via DALI, presence detectors or daylight sensors
- Maintenance intervals and service life
- Installation costs in existing buildings
- potential eligibility of the measure
That is why we do not simply compare individual products, but develop a solution that is technically, economically and aesthetically suited to the project.
Subsidies for LED lighting and LED retrofitting
For many commercial and public refurbishment projects, funding for LED retrofitting or LED lighting may be relevant. In non-residential buildings in particular, lighting refurbishment is often considered in conjunction with energy-efficiency upgrades.
Important: Funding for LED retrofits, grants for LED retrofits or funding for LED lighting in commercial premises always depend on the specific project, the technical requirements and the currently applicable funding conditions.
SATTLER supports you with technical product data, efficiency assessments and documentation for energy advisers. We do not submit funding applications ourselves, nor do we provide blanket assurances of funding. However, we do help to ensure that the project is properly prepared on a project-by-project basis.
LED lighting solutions for offices, schools and production halls
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Glare-free, uniform and standard-compliant LED luminaires are essential for offices. Linear systems, glare-free recessed luminaires, pendant luminaires with direct/indirect light distribution, or free-standing task lights are particularly suitable if the ceiling is not to be altered. Which LED lighting solutions are suitable for a lighting refurbishment in an office?
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When making a selection, it is not just the wattage that should be compared. The key factors are light distribution, glare control, colour rendering, service life, controllability and integration into the existing architecture.
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In production halls, lighting refurbishment begins with an analysis of room height, visual tasks, work areas, maintenance access and operating hours. An assessment is then carried out to determine whether existing light points should be utilised, luminaires replaced or new lighting zones planned.
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Yes, SATTLER develops lighting refurbishment solutions for schools, universities and public institutions. What is important in these settings are robust, efficient and glare-free solutions for classrooms, corridors, assembly halls, administrative offices and communal areas.
Products and solutions for lighting refurbishment
Depending on the project, SATTLER uses standard luminaires, customised luminaires or bespoke solutions.
PALADIO PRISM
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Linear LED luminaire for modern general lighting in offices, corridors and administrative areas. Suitable for refurbishment projects where existing linear structures are to be replaced with high-quality alternatives or reinterpreted.
PALADIO LENS
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Precise light control with excellent glare control – ideal for workspaces, meeting rooms and areas where visual comfort is crucial.
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PALADIO TRACK
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A flexible track lighting system for changing uses, display areas and modern working environments. Ideal when maximum adaptability is required during refurbishment of existing buildings.
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PALADIO FLOOR
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Freestanding task light for quick modernisation without the need for ceiling modifications. Particularly suitable for office spaces where structural alterations are to be kept to a minimum.
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LAMELLA
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A solution for slatted ceilings and linear existing structures where a soft, uniform lighting effect and the preservation of the ceiling structure are important.
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BE DOWNLIGHT
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Recessed downlights for existing ceiling cut-outs, foyers, corridors, washrooms and meeting rooms. Customised frames or adapter solutions provide neat solutions for many existing installations.
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EVO SPOT
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Accent and zone lighting for reception areas, exhibits, stairwells and architectural details.
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Checklist:
Is your project ready for a lighting refurbishment?
- Are there high electricity or maintenance costs?
- Are fluorescent lamps, T5, T8 or older LED systems in use?
- Should the existing ceiling be retained?
- Have there been any complaints about glare, shadows or uneven lighting?
- Do work areas have to be lit in accordance with the relevant standards?
- Should the conversion to LED be combined with a control system, sensors or DALI?
- Should the lighting complement the architecture rather than look like a standard replacement?
- Should we look into possible funding for LED lighting?
FAQ on lighting refurbishment
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Lighting refurbishment often refers to the design and lighting planning aspects of a space. Lighting retrofit, on the other hand, refers more specifically to the modernisation of the entire system. At SATTLER, we combine both: efficient technology, high-quality lighting and architectural integration.
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The costs depend on the type of building, the number of lights, the complexity of installation, the control system, any bespoke components and the technical requirements. Once an initial assessment has been carried out, a realistic budget can be established.
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SATTLER specialises primarily in high-quality commercial projects, public buildings and architecturally sophisticated existing properties. In the case of residential buildings, a collaboration is advisable when it comes to distinctive architecture, high-quality lighting solutions or bespoke lighting fixtures.
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Technically, a simple replacement is sometimes possible. However, this is rarely sufficient for professional projects. Anyone wishing to convert old fluorescent lamps to LEDs should have a check carried out to ensure that light distribution, glare, standards, control systems and electrical safety continue to be appropriate.
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For certain projects, funding for LED lighting or for converting to LED may be available. Whether this applies must be assessed on a project-by-project basis with an energy adviser, taking into account the current funding criteria.
Lighting refurbishment with SATTLER
Lighting refurbishment is more than just replacing luminaires. It determines how efficiently, user-friendly and architecturally harmonious a building will function over the coming years.
SATTLER supports lighting refurbishment projects by taking a clear view of the existing setup, usage and lighting effects – from the initial assessment right through to the final solution.
Author: Alexander Strifler
