Echoes of Aalto

At Mondeal Square, a mixed-use development designed by Blocher Blocher Architects for HN Safal, Atelier dada conceived the lighting of the business entrance lobby as a space of transition between the exterior envelope of the towers and the quieter interior world of the offices. The intention was to create an atmosphere that would be both welcoming and solemn, extending the architectural language of the project into a more introspective register.

For this office entrance, Atelier dada designed a brass suspension delicately encircling the central skylight, prolonging the poetry of natural daylight. Inspired by Alvar Aalto, this intervention subtly transforms the space: light appears to emerge from nowhere, gently illuminating the reception desk before diffusing harmoniously towards the peripheries. In these outer zones, integrated lighting takes over, supporting specific uses and revealing selected architectural details.

The materials and finishes draw from the brass walls envisioned by the architects, reinforcing the visual identity of the space and enveloping the hall in an almost sacred glow, a discreet sign of prosperity and a nod to a culture where spirituality and modernity coexist.

Behind the reception desk, a semi-transparent wall was intended to host a “dynamo” installation projecting shadow plays inspired by the mechanics of a perpetually moving clock. Owing to budget constraints, this feature was not realised, leaving the initial vision only partially fulfilled.