Zijlpoort, Leiden

The Zijlpoort is one of two remaining classicist city gates in the old center of Leiden. ThisĀ iconic building deserves it to draw all the attention, during daytime, but also in the evening and night.

Beersnielsen was responsible for the lighting design of the exterior and forĀ the projection and light in the arch of this robust building. The old luminaires have been replaced by sustainable LED ground spotlights, which provide a crispier and cooler light. By adding light in arch, the building looks more open, and it is safer for passing pedestrians and cyclists.

We have been experimenting with the projection of the portcullis. We tested to show the portcullis as a dark shadow, and vice versa, light in the shape of a portcullis. During the tests it showed that the first option provided more light.