The Old Central Fire Station was built in 1921 and constructed by renowned architects Ford & Talboys with the influence of the Italian Renaissance. The building remains as one of the most significant and recognisable in the city of Whanguanui. Originally operating as a 19th century fire station, the iconic building is today home to a variety of businesses including the La Station Design Store, Airbnb accommodation, ballet school, and hairdressers.

Working together with JA Russell Ltd and Sound Electrical, Versalux developed an exterior lighting system that would enhance the architecture of the building, surrounding pathways and create further accessibility through illumination. Versalux consulted the client to select the best luminaires from our wide product range that would satisfy their criteria, creating a visually appealing and welcoming atmosphere while retaining a lively building with its own distinctive character.

The cylindrical shaped EMMA luminaires were chosen for the exterior of the heritage listed multi-purpose building. The wall mounted fittings are classically styled, providing a focal point for the architecture decorative details with a contrasting black finish and minimalistic lines. The EMMA luminaires are constructed of high quality aluminium materials and are certified with an IP66 rating to avoid dust, water projection and corrosion; the weatherproof design increases the life of each luminaire incorporated into the outdoor exterior thanks to the superior nature of the manufacturing processes.

The EMMA luminaires deliver high colour rendition with 3000K warm white via fully shielded light sources in an up and down effect that accentuates the façade and surroundings with its wide beam distribution. Multiple EMMA luminaires working in tandem ensure safe, low glare illumination for visitors and patrons to feel comfortable and secure walking through and leaving the premises for a memorable urban lighting experience. The stunning illumination effect on the bold lines of the architecture is typical of the EMMA and its sister Decorative Exterior lighting products in the Versalux range.