An office development in Paddington, London, has made extensive use of reclaimed industrial luminaires.
The Brunel Building opposite Paddington Station by Derwent London has an industrial aesthetic which lighting design practice EQ2 Light sought to complement with reclaimed lights sourced from Lightloom Design.
The scheme draws on the building’s architectural language, which references the engineering legacy of Isambard Kingdom Brunel and the historic railway infrastructure surrounding the site. Rather than relying solely on new manufactured fittings, the designers prioritised restored lighting equipment with visible patina and industrial detailing, reinforcing the authenticity of the interior spaces.
Fittings include five-foot twin strip lights by Calstar, aluminium engine room cage pendants and aluminium dome ceiling lights.
These elements were originally used in marine and industrial environments, where durability and functional performance were essential. Through careful refurbishment, rewiring and adaptation for modern building standards, the luminaires were given a second life while meeting current efficiency and safety requirements, often incorporating LED technology to improve energy performance and reduce operational costs.
The use of reclaimed lighting also contributes to the building’s environmental strategy by reducing embodied carbon associated with new manufacturing. This approach aligns with broader sustainability goals in commercial real estate, where developers increasingly seek to balance aesthetic quality with responsible material sourcing. In addition, the industrial character of the lighting enhances the spatial experience for occupants, creating a warm but utilitarian atmosphere that contrasts with the precision of contemporary office fit-outs.
Overall, the lighting design demonstrates how reclaimed industrial fixtures can be successfully integrated into high-quality office developments, supporting both design intent and sustainability objectives.
Leicester-based Loomlight Design restores reclaimed vintage industrial lighting, light switches and clocks. In 2025 it took over the stock and brand name of Skinflint, continuing to expand its sustainable lighting heritage portfolio across UK and Europe markets internationally.
• See more innovations in sustainable lighting at Circular Lighting Live 2026, Recolight’s flagship conference and exhibition, which takes place on Thursday 8 October 2026 at the Minster Building in the City of London. Free to specifiers, Circular Lighting Live 2026 will feature leading experts, specifiers and policy makers who will share their insights into forthcoming standards and legislation, emerging technologies and new business models. More info: www.circularlighting.live
Pic: Jack Hobhouse
