AirGlow enables respectful lighting for historic church cemetery

In Lund, on the southern tip of Sweden, Stora Råby Church and its surrounding churchyard form a quiet, historically significant environment. When the parish decided it was time to replace the old globe luminaires, the ambition was clear: create a new lighting installation that respected the site’s cultural heritage while introducing modern performance and control.

The result is a carefully balanced solution using AirGlow wireless lighting control from LumenRadio, combining subtle aesthetics, precise dimming and reliable wireless communication. The project was led by Architectural Lighting Designer, Martin Hellberg from MHD.

Lighting control a critical component

“When designing the lighting for the project, we address lighting control early on in the process,” says Martin. “Some people think it’s the last step, but for me it’s part of the foundation. We have to build the installation in such a way that when it’s time to implement the design, we still have options.”

“For many years, outdoor lighting was very difficult to control properly,” Martin explains. “With LEDs, we suddenly have all these possibilities. But then we must actually use them.”

Seamless wireless synchronization

AirGlow was chosen to ensure synchronized dimming and flexible wireless communication between all luminaires. In total, 21 fixtures (19 in the churchyard and 2 in the adjacent parking area) were installed within the same network.

“One of the advantages here was that we could create a uniform change across the entire churchyard,” he says. “If we had used pre-programmed drivers only, you might have had small time differences between luminaires. On a site like a playground that might be acceptable, but not here.”

Choosing a fixture that fits the setting

After control, one of the most important jobs was picking the right lighting fixture.

“We were looking for something that was new, but still historically suitable,” says Martin. “It had to feel natural in the environment – not like a contemporary object placed in the wrong setting.”

After evaluating multiple options, the team selected the Kristinehamn luminaire from Blond Belysning.

“I would describe it as a modern luminaire with a subtle nod to the traditional lantern,” Martin explains. “It has a contemporary expression, but it clearly references historical forms.”

The luminaire’s indirect light distribution was a key factor. In a cemetery environment, glare control is essential.

“We didn’t want too much light on the churchyard. That was a requirement from the start,” says Martin. “And when the surroundings are dark, it doesn’t take much before you feel glare. Light is relative.”

Sensitive lighting for All Saints’ weekend

One specific requirement concerned All Saints’ weekend, when families place candles on graves throughout the cemetery.

“During that weekend, we want to see the grave candles clearly,” says Martin. “So we reduce the general lighting even more.”

With AirGlow, an additional dimming level is implemented during this period, ensuring that the artificial lighting supports rather than competes with the candlelight.

“It’s about respect,” Martin adds. “Lighting should serve the atmosphere, not dominate it.”

Collaboration that ensures performance

Like many multi-supplier projects, the installation phase included technical adjustments related to drivers and integration. Close cooperation and on-site support ensured that the system was fully optimized.

“I was impressed by the level of support from LumenRadio,” Martin notes. “It’s important to work with partners who are willing to engage and solve things properly.”