Light and Minimalism

For the Goethe-Institut project in Kolkata, the challenge was to design an interior lighting scheme that meets international standards while integrating local resources and craftsmanship. Housed within a beautiful historic building shared with the French Cultural Institute, the space embodies a refined balance between heritage and contemporary expression.

The interior design, developed by Blocher Blocher Architects, is defined by minimalist restraint and clean architectural lines. The lighting concept was therefore conceived in harmony with this aesthetic, providing ergonomic and comfortable illumination through a flexible infrastructure capable of adapting to the institute’s diverse cultural activities.

The lighting system is based on a deliberately limited fixture palette, sufficient to address a wide range of functions while ensuring optimal visual comfort. Drawing inspiration from the Goethe-Institut’s visual identity, custom neon luminaires were designed for the lobby ceiling, introducing a contemporary signature within the entrance space. This luminous gesture extends into the cafeteria and library, where a large neon element softly illuminates a brick wall, adding warmth and depth to the overall ambiance.

Delivered within a modest budget and under extremely tight deadlines, the project stands as a clear example of value engineering. It offers a solution that is flexible, ergonomic and aesthetically refined, fully aligned with the Goethe-Institut’s international standards and cultural identity.