Chromatic Crossing — Saint-Germain-en-Laye Forest, Tram T13

Conceived as a full nocturnal experience, the forest crossing of the Tram T13 in the Saint-Germain-en-Laye Forest explores a different approach to infrastructure lighting, based on restraint, precision, and deep respect for the site.

Located within a protected forest massif, this approximately five-kilometre sequence raised a delicate challenge: ensuring user safety while preserving the integrity of a sensitive nocturnal ecosystem. Atelier dada’s approach was to illuminate only what is strictly necessary, avoiding any overflow or scenographic effect, and maintaining the forest’s natural darkness.

The lighting unfolds as a progressive chromatic crossing, built around a very warm monochromatic palette. The tones evolve gently along the route, accompanying movement without abrupt contrasts. This gradual progression supports night-vision adaptation and reduces the impact of light spectra on wildlife.

The system relies on a custom-designed lighting bollard developed specifically for this project. Its highly asymmetrical optic illuminates only the exact width of the roadway, with no spill into the surrounding undergrowth, ensuring controlled light emission and preserving ambient darkness. Its restrained height and sober expression allow the equipment to fade into the landscape.

Beyond its operational role, this forest crossing acts as a full-scale experimental field. It questions the relationship between light, movement, and nocturnal landscape, and contributes to broader research on ecological lighting and its long-term effects on natural environments.

Project designed in 2019.
Construction phase ongoing (2026).