Space Inflaters is a space themed inflatable experience in Gillingham, North Dorset. This is the second community site being run by The Gillingham Community and Leisure Trust, expanding its ability to deliver activities to young people in the area. The project required a stimulating, sensory lighting environment made up of dynamic colour displays.

The project brief entailed the creation of a sensory lighting environment that met both practical requirements and aimed at increasing energy savings. The client specifically desired a colour-changing scheme that would cast a wash effect over the main play area. ECS was engaged to collaborate with the designer, supplier, and lighting manufacturer, Dextra Group plc, to bring this innovative lighting scheme to life. Dextra Group plc supplied the necessary fittings, while ECS assumed responsibility for commissioning the system.

As part of the design, an interactive LED wall was installed, featuring pressure pads that allow children to trigger strip lights, showcasing special lighting shows and changing colours in response. A dynamic lighting effect was also incorporated into the café wall, programmed to display various colours and effects, including a Happy Birthday banner.

The implemented system utilised Traxon e:cue Control relay nodes to manage lighting both internally and externally, transforming the entire area into an interactive hub for children to enjoy. DALI nodes were employed to control the main lighting within the building.

Alex Martin, Dextra Group Director, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, “It was wonderful to work with ECS on this local community project. ECS did an amazing job commissioning and programming the new system. The lighting effects created are fun and eye-catching, intended to provide an interactive feature for children and people with disabilities.” The lighting scheme not only perfectly aligned with the client’s brief but also contributed to enhancing the spatial design of the soft play area, making it a more engaging and enjoyable space.

Client – The Gillingham Community and Leisure Trust
Lighting Design, Supply, Manufacturer – LEDextra, part of Dextra Group plc
Commissioning – ECS Limited 
Controls – Traxon e:cue, supplied by LEDextra, part of Dextra Group plc