PROJECTS

THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Calhoun Community College & Athens State University
Decatur, AL
Architects: PH&J Architects
Electrical Engineer: Gunn & Associates

The Alabama Center for the Arts opened on August 20, 2012. It’s the result of a combined effort between Calhoun Community College, Athens State University, the City of Decatur, and Morgan County. The facility houses an extensive visual arts program. Students can take courses in ceramics, 3D design, photography, painting, drawing, and graphic design. It is phase one of a two-phase project. The second phase will house the school’s music and theater departments. “I think this facility has electrified the community,” said Kenneth Anderson, Dean of Humanities & Social Sciences at Calhoun Community College. “It certainly represents what I think is the best Decatur has to offer.” The art gallery, located on the first floor, is illuminated by LSI track lighting. The Painting, drawing, ceramics, and 3D design rooms all have the Verve III linear pendant fixture from Focal Point, which provides both uplight and downlight. One of the most exciting lighting features of the entire building are the color- changing LEDs from Insight that have been installed overhead throughout the first and second-floor hallways. The entire lighting system is controlled throughNexlight. “The whole dimension of how light influences one’s ability to create has to be a powerful thing in this particular facility, and we’re excited about that,” said Anderson.

ACECET

Calhoun Community College
Decatur, AL
Architects: PH&J Architects
Electrical Engineer: Gunn & Associates

ACECET (Alabama Center for Excellence in Clean Energy Technology) is a LEED certified building that consumes 51% less energy than a building of similar size and footprint. The goal of ACECET is to train individuals in the field of renewable energy and to prepare them for careers in green industries. With their goal of LEED certification in mind, ACECET needed light fixtures and lighting control capabilities that could exceed the expectations for energy efficiency. We worked with the architect, electrical engineer, and end-user from the design phase of the project, all the way through to the commissioning of the Nexlight lighting control system. The Lunera 2×2 LED panel was used for the main training room. At only 40 watts, this fixture delivers 91 lumens per watt and beautiful 88+ CRI white light. The entrances and hallways feature the Focal Point LED Intelligent Downlight. The remote phosphor technology inside the Intelligent Downlight ensures color consistency throughout the life of the fixture. The Intelligent Downlight comes in a variety of lumen packages, diameters, and color temperatures – all at wattages below 32. Focal Point’s Aerion, a highly efficient recessed fixture, is located in the classrooms, offices, and computer labs. Exterior lighting around the building is achieved with the Inovus solar pole, an energy-efficient street lighting solution featuring a thin solar wrap around the pole that eliminates unsightly flat panels. Throughout the building phase, we made several trips to ACECET to ensure that the project was progressing smoothly. At the end of construction, we made one final trip to the facility to commission the lighting control system. ACECET Program Director Jerry Adams said, “We’re very pleased with the performance we’re seeing from the fixtures today.”

ALABAMA SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS THEATRICAL LIGHTING PROJECT

VArchitect: LIVE Design Group
Electrical Engineer: Theatre Projects Consultants

In April 2012, the Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham raised the curtain on a new, 500-seat theater. Named after a beloved member of the ASFA Foundation, the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater is a versatile proscenium venue that can accommodate stage plays, dance recital, and orchestral and vocal performances. Behind-the-scenes, the theater serves as a state-of-the-art teaching facility for ASFA students, where they learn about all aspects of the performing arts. To meet their technical needs, we provided ASFA with several Strand Lighting products. Strand fresnals hang on battens above the stage to provide broad, even illumination for specific lighting scenarios. The entire lighting system is controlled by a Strand C21 dimmer rack, located in an isolated room to the side of the house. Lighting cues are run with the Strand Palette VL, a console with:

• 500-3000 channels
• 2 DMX ports with 1024 outputs
• integrated moving light controls
• Vision.net control interface for entertainment and architectural controls
• thousands of cue presets
• tracking or whole cue operation
• …and much more.

Watch the video to learn more about the Dorothy Jemison Day Theater and how Strand products give them plenty of flexibility and convenience when designing and running a show.

CHRISTCHURCH

8800 VAUGHN ROAD
MONTGOMERY, AL 36117

For the Christchurch building and sanctuary, we worked with Cole & Cole Architects and Borden & Morris Consulting Engineers to provide specific light fixtures and dimming controls for the congregation. After a careful assessment of the church’s needs, we created a lighting layout and animated 3D visualization of the church building so the end-user could clearly understand how the entire system would work once the project was complete. For the cove lighting in the sanctuary, we selected the AX-D from Electrix. The AX-D is a T5HO fixture with unique dual asymmetric reflectors that can be independently adjusted 35o to control luminance. We used Strand performance light fixtures with pipe battens above the altar. We also used Strand for all of the church’s dimming needs. The transept features LSI track lighting. The following video is our 3D animation of the sanctuary, built entirely in-house from architectural drawings and specs.

DEMOPOLIS THEATRICAL LIGHTING PROJECT

The Demopolis High School theatre is a great example of the integrated lighting and rigging solutions we offer for theatres, auditoriums, and performing arts centers. This particular project called for the construction of a new theatre for the high school. We packaged all elements together and provided all of the following:

• house lights
• front-of-house electrics
• stage electrics
• lighting control
• automated rigging
• audio-visual

We utilized Strand fixtures for the front-of-house electrics, stage electrics, and follow spots at the back of the house. Strand dimmers and control consoles handle all of the dimming and lighting control throughout the theatre. Instead of using recessed can lighting for the house (which is typical for theatre applications), we used a series of 2×2 LED tile fixtures. The wide angle of distribution provides a more even illumination throughout the space. The LED technology ensures that facility managers will rarely, if ever, have to access the fixtures for maintenance and/or replacement. The fixtures also translate into significant energy savings. Above the stage, the Demopolis theatre boasts a series of automatic hoists from JR Clancy that fly electrics in and out of the space. Automatic rigging is a much safer alternative than traditional counterweight systems, since no one has to climb dangerous catwalks or maneuver heavy weights while high above the stage. Plus, the system is completely scalable. You can start with only a few hoists and then, as your budget allows, you can come back and add more hoists as needed. Students, Teachers, and Technicians at Dempolis High School can operate the hoists by using the JR Clancy control console located backstage.

GOLDEN SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH

Before:

After:

MONTGOMERY YMCA

We replaced existing 400MH high bays with the Susan Lamp 400 Pro replacement. It was as simple as removing the existing lamp and replacing it with the Susan. There is no ballast to bypass and no rewiring. The owner was able to make the switch themselves, and it resulted in a 61% energy savings plus a greatly reduced maintenance cost. It doesn’t get any easier than this.

Check out these before and after pictures!

RIVERMARKET LIGHTING PROJECT

Rivermarket, located in Tuscaloosa, AL was designed by Ellis Architects. It’s a versatile space that hosts various events throughout the year – farmers markets, receptions, dinners, reunions, musical performances, etc. The opposite end of the building features office and conference space. For the Rivermarket project, we worked with the architect to select and specify all of the light fixtures and the lighting control system. The main event venue features decorative wet-location wall sconces in addition to the overhead fixtures. The wall sconces provide nice, subtle mood lighting for evening affairs. The Nexlight lighting control system allows Rivermarket facility managers to isolate and control specific rows of fixtures to create the exact lighting look needed. Photocells and occupancy sensors help reduce energy consumption by controlling when fixtures are on or off. The office area features pendant-mounted linear fluorescent fixtures that provide both direct and indirect light into the space. We also created a 3D animation of the space during the planning stage. This gave the city of Tuscaloosa an opportunity to evaluate their lighting needs. Finally, once the facility neared completion, we traveled to Tuscaloosa to commission the Nexlight lighting control system and train the end-user on its functionality.

RSA PARKING DECK

The Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA) in Montgomery, AL had an aging parking deck that needed to be updated. As they started the process, they considered their lighting needs and realized two things: One, they needed to reduce the costs involved with maintaining the fixtures and replacing bulbs. Two, they wanted to take advantage of the latest lighting technology that would help them conserve energy and money. That’s where we came in.

Based on the consultation and design of Gunn & Associates, we proposed that RSA take their existing 175W Metal Halide fixtures and replace them with 40W 2×2 LED panels from Lunera. To illustrate the value of this upgrade, we did a little math. The RSA parking deck had 614 Metal Halide fixtures, using 175W each (200W if you count the ballast). Their annual operating hours are 6,570. When you take that number and multiply that by 200W, you get 1,314,000. That’s how many watts one Metal Halide fixture gives off per year. Now, compare that to a 40W LED (6,570 x 40W = 262,800W) and you can already see a big difference in energy consumption.

After we crunched all the numbers, we found out that we could… a) save the RSA $80,680 annually (energy savings + maintenance savings) b) give them a 38% return on their investment c) payback their investment in only 2.66 years

But what about the quality of light inside the deck once the LED 2×2 fixtures were installed? Well, seeing is believing.

SMITHS STATION HIGH SCHOOL

Architect: McKee and Associates
Electrical Engineer: Gunn & Associates

The Smiths Station High School project called for the construction of a brand new class 6A school, with a budget of approximately $34 million. We provided light fixtures for the building facade, corridors, and the grand lobby. The school also utilized our Nexlight low voltage lighting control system. For the building’s facade, we used Sentinel from Beta Calco. These particular fixtures are perfect for accent and ambient illumination for architectural detailing. The Sentinel comes in four different lengths to suit the scale of the application, and the variety of designs provide several options for differing aesthetic needs. The grand lobby of the high school features a unique, custom-made pyramid-shaped, pendant fixture from Beta Calco, with fluorescent lamping. Along the ceiling of the grand lobby are several Focal Point Verve fixtures, providing both uplight and downlight with a frosted acrylic lens. Corridor junctions within the school feature the Focal Point Skydome, a round, fluorescent fixture with 2′, 3′, or 4′ diameters and recessed, surface, or pendant mounting options. The acrylic diffuser provides a nice, soft light that’s perfect for schools, meeting rooms, or other open, public spaces.

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA BRYANT-DENNY STADIUM TUNNEL

Parker Lighting’s Parker Cordia PL07G is the replacement fixture of choice for the renovation of the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium Tunnel.  The Parker Cordia PL07G is an ambient linear vapor tight LED product with high efficiencies of 100 lm/W, an aluminum body to enhance heat dissipation, and flexible installation supporting either surface or suspended mounting kits.  Designed with a full-length polycarbonate lens, it is a waterproof, dustproof and pressure proof product that can be used in a wide variety of industrial and commercial environments such as warehouses, parking lots, stairwells and many more.

REELTOWN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN NOTASULGA, AL

LED Lighting in the School’s Gymnasium, Theater, Cafeteria and Library

Architect: McKee and Associates
Electrical Engineer: Gunn & Associates

2022-2023 elementary school year began in their new facility, which serves 500 students in pre-K through sixth grade. The $12.5 million construction project provides students with a larger facility as well as the latest in economical LED lighting. J.S. Cotney, Inc. provided the lighting for the gymnasium, theater, cafeteria and library. Selected for the new gym is the Parker Lighting’s Parker Belle PH09A Anti-Glare High Bay. Its honeycomb patented design reduces glare and creates a pleasant and comfortable working environment. Theater lighting featured Altman Lighting’s Spectra Par 100 and The Altman Lighting Smart Track Lighting System. The Spectra Par 100 is a 100-Watt par luminaire utilizing red, green, blue and amber LED emitters, and is complete with interchangeable lenses.  Altman Lighting’s Smart Track Lighting System is a revolutionary way to power and control individually addressable luminaires without the need for dimmer packs, relay panels and bulky cable runs. It is a cost-effective solution that is easy to lay out, install and maintain. Featured in the cafeteria and library are four fixtures from Focal Point Lighting. The Focal Point Skydome is a round fixture with 2’, 3’ or 4’ diameters which can be recessed, surface or pendant mounted. Its frosted acrylic lens is textured on one side to provide smooth distribution. It comes with multiple light output options and is suitable for open public spaces. The Seem 2 LED Recessed linear arrays provide fully illuminated 90-degree corners, ensuring uninterrupted lines of sight. Available also in lit baffles, they provide direct only, indirect only or direct/indirect distributions. The Seem 2 LED Pendant provides a small profile through its 2.5” aperture and creates seamless lines of light without pixels or shadows, providing the perfect blend of high performance and visual comfort. Completing the Focal Point Lighting selection is the ID+ 4.5” Cylinder which offers a decorative reveal with optional glowing or non-glow reveal. Custom colors are available for the finish and glowing reveal. Cord, fixed stem or 50-degree swivel stem options as well as spot-to-wide flood distribution options, and die-cast knife edge provides a sophisticated aesthetic. Parker Lighting completes our cafeteria and library lighting fixtures with its PL Flat Panel Brady Series. Parker Premium LED Panels from our Brady Series at 40, 50 and 60 watts with/without  emergency provide a low-profile solution with uniform luminance, making it a true edge lit that helps to prevent eye exhaustion.

THE LYRIC THEATRE

The beautifully restored Lyric Theatre stands proudly with over 100 years of history and is hard at work creating a new century of stories after its grand reopening in February 2016. Set in the heart of Birmingham, Alabama, this once-Vaudeville theatre is the beloved home to concerts, symphonies, operas and theatre productions as well as many community events.  J. S. Cotney, Inc. was honored to have provided the more than 50 replication and restoration lighting fixtures for this historical gem.  This project is a great example of how we are prepared to serve custom lighting needs.

I-59/I-20 DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

LED Lights Under the New I-59/I-20 Interstate Bridges in Downtown Birmingham

The LED MTR Round Columns from Selux enhance the sense of security and visual comfort, while acting as a means of orientation and helping to structure the space.  Additional general site lighting for pathways and parking areas has been added to the columns to improve safety for pedestrians.  Northstar Lighting’s IWL 100W High Bays have been adapted with custom reflectors.  IWL provides specification grade optical performance using high efficacy LED and high power factor LED drivers.