Futurelight dynamic effects have been used exclusively for the automated lighting, in the development of a new £3.5 million leisure development project in Aberdeen.

A wide range of fixtures was supplied by Difuzion — the lighting arm of Fuzion plc, who are UK distributors for the Futurelight range. Graham Barron, who runs the division, has a long relationship with one of the venue’s directors, Finlay Cran of Aberdeen-based European Development Company (EDC); he acted as consultant and lighting designer for the new exclusive ‘Albyn’ in Albyn Place, supplying the dancefloor effects via main technology contractors, Absolute Audio Systems.

The exclusive contemporary club, bar and restaurant is housed in a three-storey 19th century granite building, which has been sensitively converted (and extended) by Edinburgh-based architects/designers Kerr Blyth Associates (KBA).

Working closely with their design director, Gail Thomson, Barron specified as the main lighting effect, eight Futurelight EYE-18 LED moving head wash fixtures. These were supplemented by four Futurelight PHS-150 moving head spots, four EVO-5 effects projectors and four Futurelight PCC-250 CMY colour changers over the dancefloor.

Difuzion also supplied an LED system comprising 320 x LED Linkline 100 RGB colour changers to KBA, which were installed as indirect light behind a floating ceiling.

The suspended ceiling mirrors are one of the design highlights. Explained Gail Thomson, “I created these as part of the hanging acoustic panels, using the mirrors to enable guests to get obscured views. The acoustic panels are designed to reflect the high frequencies and absorb the lows.”

Working with architectural technicians, Canale Associates, the designer also detailed a glass box between the original building and the two-storey extension to the rear which incorporate the bars, restaurant and entertainment area (with grand piano) — as well as the acoustically tuned and suspended ceiling mirrors and booth seats.

The member’s lounge underneath is specifically designed for the over 30’s crowd with a two-level Martini bar, sunken dance floor with integrated stage for live music and star-encrusted sofa area with delicate chain drapes.

“We’ve aimed for a dark, opulent, moody and sexy atmosphere that will convert easily from a day to night destination. The style reflects the intended audience and is sophisticated, stylish and relaxed,” summarised Gail Thomson.

And Finlay Cran added, “The Albyn is a completely unique venue and something that Aberdeen has never seen before.”