Lighting refurbishment and lighting retrofitting in existing buildings
Efficient. Compliant with standards. Architecturally well thought-out.
A professional lighting refurbishment in existing buildings combines energy efficiency, compliance with standards and architectural quality – without unnecessary interference with the existing building fabric. Particularly in office buildings, public facilities and high-end existing properties, the focus today is on far more than simply replacing old light sources.
A high-quality lighting refurbishment improves light quality, reduces running costs and preserves a building’s architectural character – in a sustainable and future-proof way.
Lighting refurbishment in existing buildings – all topics at a glance
What does lighting refurbishment in existing buildings involve?
Lighting refurbishment refers to the comprehensive modernisation of existing lighting systems. It goes far beyond simply replacing luminaires and takes into account architecture, usage, standards, energy efficiency and the effect of light within the space.
Unlike simple retrofit solutions, when carrying out a lighting refurbishment, we analyse:
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- existing ceiling structures and openings
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- Visual requirements, use of space and quality of the environment
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- lighting requirements and standards
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- the design impact of light in a room
This does not result in a one-to-one replacement, but rather a qualitatively new lighting solution for the existing building.
Why lighting refurbishment is essential today
Technical reasons
T5 and T8 fluorescent lamps are no longer available, or only to a limited extent. Many existing systems therefore require a sustainable alternative.
Economic reasons
Outdated lighting systems result in high energy and maintenance costs. Modern LED technology significantly reduces electricity consumption.
Qualitative reasons
Glare, uneven lighting or incorrect colour temperatures impair work quality, orientation and well-being.
Particularly in older existing buildings, lighting refurbishment is often the quickest and most effective way to reduce energy consumption, meet regulatory standards and improve lighting quality in the long term. A professional lighting refurbishment enables a one-step transition to LED technology, lighting that complies with standards, and a significantly improved ambience.
SATTLER approaches lighting refurbishment not merely from a technical perspective, but always with a focus on lighting design – taking into account the architecture, the building’s use and the atmosphere.
Our approach: Architectural lighting refurbishment
Lighting refurbishment must be carried out in keeping with the architecture. We develop refurbishment solutions that prioritise efficiency, design and long-term quality in equal measure.
Our lighting refurbishment projects are characterised by:
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- bespoke refurbishment lighting for existing buildings
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- precise use of existing ceiling openings and structures
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- high-quality lighting for professional workspaces and communal areas
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- enhanced spatial effect rather than a simple 1:1 replacement
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- Lighting solutions for projects with high design standards
We support refurbishment projects not only from a technical perspective, but always also in terms of lighting design – taking into account the space, its use and the atmosphere. We do not focus on simple retrofit lighting solutions, standard LED panels or refurbishments carried out without analysing the lighting effects.
For us, light is not a consumable item, but an integral part of architecture.
For which renovation projects SATTLER is the right solution
Our retrofit luminaires are typically used in:
Light ceilings and special structures that are not to be completely replaced
Architectural projects where the ceiling must be retained
Existing buildings where the lighting is to be modernised without damaging structural elements
Office and work environments where standards and glare control are crucial
Reception and public areas where design is important
Administrative buildings and public facilities
Typical applications also include public buildings, administrative offices and ESG-relevant properties, where energy efficiency, durability and architectural quality are equally crucial.
If projects need to combine design quality AND energy efficiency – we are the right partner.
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Janine Schneider
Lighting refurbishment in existing buildings – examples from real-life projects
Renovation featuring a bespoke light fixture that blends seamlessly into the sacred space, providing both general lighting and targeted accent lighting – without altering the character of the room.
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Ludger Schmidt, Steinenbronn
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Ludger Schmidt, Steinenbronn
Office lighting that complies with standards, using recessed luminaires that are adapted to existing ceiling structures and designed for long-lasting, low-maintenance operation.
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Drees & Sommer
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Bernd Bundschuh
Bespoke light panels for providing even, atmospheric lighting in large public spaces whilst fully preserving the existing ceiling structure.
Targeted lighting refurbishment to enhance communal and circulation areas whilst reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs.
Refurbishment featuring custom-fitted recessed downlights and wall lights, designed to fit existing cut-outs and installed without the need for structural alterations.
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Reichel Architekten, Kassel
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BE 2
Integration of LED technology into existing handrails to provide functional, standard-compliant lighting without altering the architecture.
Converting to LED lighting – how a lighting retrofit works
Retrofitting existing buildings with LED lighting is now one of the most effective ways to modernise existing lighting systems in terms of technology, energy efficiency and design. To ensure your lighting refurbishment is well-planned and efficient, we structure every project into clear steps. This transforms a vague notion of ‘we need to do something’ into a robust lighting refurbishment plan.
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Edison Sattler
The result: greater efficiency, better light quality
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Significantly lower energy consumption thanks to modern LED technology, enhanced visual comfort and well-being, and a future-proof foundation for sensor technology, Human Centric Lighting and digital lighting control. This transforms a simple conversion to LED lighting into a comprehensive lighting refurbishment in existing buildings.
A professional lighting retrofit saves electricity and running costs whilst improving light quality.
Modern LED modules consume significantly less energy than T5 or T8 systems, have a longer service life and therefore also reduce maintenance costs. Optimised light distribution – often achieved with fewer luminaires – delivers a better visual result whilst reducing energy consumption.
Renovation is particularly worthwhile in office spaces with long operating hours:
Typical projects achieve energy savings of 50% or more.
In addition, flexibility, the atmosphere of the space and the overall appearance of the working environment are improved – a clear benefit for both users and operators.
The following overview shows the potential savings that can be expected depending on the renovation strategy.
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Edison Sattler
Funding & BEG – what you need to know about lighting refurbishment
The Federal Funding Scheme for Energy-Efficient Buildings (BEG EM – Individual Measures) supports investments that significantly reduce a building’s energy consumption. This also includes the refurbishment of existing lighting systems, provided that certain efficiency requirements are met. For many refurbishment projects in existing buildings – particularly in the public and commercial sectors – lighting refurbishment can therefore be an important component of a holistic energy-efficiency modernisation programme.
Typical examples of eligible projects include:
- - Conversion to energy-efficient LED technology
- - Use of modern control systems (e.g. DALI, presence or daylight sensors)
- - Demonstrable reduction in total energy consumption
SATTLER supports funding projects by providing technical documentation, efficiency assessments and product data, and by working closely with energy consultants.
We do not process funding applications or issue blanket funding commitments – the final assessment is always made on a project-by-project basis.
Products from our range for lighting refurbishment
In addition to bespoke refurbishment luminaires, SATTLER also offers standard luminaires which – depending on the project – are suitable for refurbishment work in existing buildings. These products are not intended to replace bespoke solutions, but can be specifically integrated into existing structures.
Note:
These products are not automatically eligible for funding. Eligibility depends on the project, the configuration and the assessment carried out by the energy consultant.
PALADIO PRISM
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Linear luminaire for the modernisation of existing continuous lighting systems.
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- Available with a special finish, depending on the model
- Ideal for the refurbishment of existing linear routes
- Even ambient lighting with a high-quality lighting effect
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PALADIO LENS
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Lens optics for directional, precise and glare-free light.
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- Ideal for work areas
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- Clear highlighting and greater efficiency thanks to precise light control
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- Ideal for existing lighting schemes where a brighter effect is desired
PALADIO TRACK
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A flexible track lighting system for upgrading versatile spaces.
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- Ideal for changing uses and renovations
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- Can be combined with spotlights, pendant lights and modules
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- A future-proof foundation for dynamic workspaces and presentation areas
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PALADIO FLOOR
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Freestanding task light – instantly modernises your space without any work on the ceiling.
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- Particularly suitable when ceiling structures must remain untouched
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- Lighting for office workstations that complies with standards
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- Rapid implementation, even whilst operations are ongoing
LAMELLA
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Linear luminaire for slatted ceilings from various manufacturers.
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- Ideal for renovation projects where the existing ceiling structure is retained
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- A modern look instead of traditional legacy systems
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- Very uniform, high-quality lighting for open-plan offices and circulation areas
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BE DOWNLIGHT
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A range of downlights for various existing openings.
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- Can be adapted using adapter rings or custom frames
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- Ideal for lobbies, corridors, washrooms and meeting rooms
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- Seamless integration into existing ceiling cut-outs
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COVELIGHT & Hinterleuchtungen
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Efficient LED systems for backlit surfaces.
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- For existing wall or ceiling fixtures that are to be retrofitted with modern LED technology
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- Very even, low-maintenance lighting
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- Ideal for refurbishing architectural surfaces
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EVO SPOT
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Accent and zone lighting for prestigious areas.
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- Ideal for reception areas, displays and architectural features
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- Enhances specific areas and complements existing general lighting
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Lighting refurbishment involves more than just replacing luminaires.
It determines how efficient, user-friendly and architecturally coherent a building will be in the coming years.
SATTLER supports renovation projects by taking a clear-eyed view of the existing structure, its use and the effects of light – from the initial assessment right through to the final solution.
FAQ on lighting refurbishment in existing buildings
Author: Alexander Strifler
