Transformed from a 1990s office block into 188,000 sq ft of next-generation workspace above Angel Station, Angel Square demanded a lighting approach that reflected its connectivity, cultural vibrancy, and bold design. Northern Lights worked closely with Michaelis Boyd and Tishman Speyer to develop a suite of bespoke pendants and wall lights for the luxury office spaces, unifying the scheme across public, breakout, and circulation areas.

Bespoke Glass, Finishes, and Harmonized Illumination

The project presented several creative challenges, beginning with the glass specification. Extensive sampling enabled bespoke glass with subtle internal dimples and inverted detailing, creating dynamic reflections that enhance the architectural character.

The metalwork finish was developed to echo the building’s aged bronze ironmongery. Raw brass components were machined and hand-finished with a chemical treatment to achieve visual matching across all fixtures. Each cap was finished as a single piece before separating for assembly, ensuring a flawless, unified appearance.

Factory visits by Michaelis Boyd and Tishman Speyer were pivotal in evolving the scheme. Viewing finishes and glass processing in situ sparked creative refinements and notable changes to the original schemes.  Extensive lamp exploration and testing - including visible filaments, porcelain-diffused effects, and golf-ball LED spheres - ensured every fitting was perfected to deliver highly specific illumination goals.

Design Highlights

Pendants – Three bespoke pendants with harmonized glass colour and integrated lighting effects, reflecting ceilings and circulation spaces.

Wall Lights – Three bespoke wall lights with subtle internal dimpling and refined bullnose capping, delivering architectural presence and consistent illumination throughout corridors and breakout areas.

"Working with Northern Lights on the Angel Square project was a fantastic experience. I came to them with quite a crazy idea in mind, built around specific colours and shapes, and they were outstanding in helping bring the vision to life. Not only because of the incredible knowledge and craftsmanship they have with glass, but also because of how open and collaborative they were throughout the whole process.

They spent time exploring samples with me and walking through all the possibilities we could achieve in their facility, which was incredibly inspiring. Their experience with glass actually pushed the concept even further than I had originally imagined, and they made what could have been a complex process feel very easy and enjoyable.

For us, designers, creating a project where every element resonates with the concept is essential, and lighting is one of the most important touches to truly bring a space to life. Northern Lights really understood that, and their contribution played a key role in making the vision a reality."

– Alejandra Ríos Moguer, Lead Architect ARB, Michaelis Boyd