About The Coop, Barnes & Noble, Harvard:
Right in the heart of Cambridge, The Coop is a Harvard landmark. It’s the kind of building where history is baked into every beam, so when we were brought in for the lighting, the mission was clear: modern functionality, zero disruption to that old-school charm.
Project Details:
We tackled a full lighting overhaul during their renovation. The challenge was all about balance—respecting the legacy of the space while upgrading to high-performance, energy-efficient lighting that actually makes sense in a 21st-century retail environment.
Custom Lighting Design:
We partnered up with Arrowstreet, Inc. and McGinty Co. to dial in custom LED fixtures made specifically for The Coop. Off-the-shelf wasn’t going to cut it—every piece needed to look and feel like it belonged in a century-old bookstore.
Front Entry:
The entry got a bold but elegant upgrade with our 36-inch LED disc chandeliers. We went with a plated brass finish to vibe with the existing woodwork. Each disc puts out 5000 lumens at a warm 3000K, which brings in plenty of light without killing the mood.
Upstairs Solutions:
Second and third floors called for a more modern touch—same 36-inch discs, but we ceiling-mounted them in matte silver. Low-profile, high-output, and no clutter in the visual field. It’s all about performance without flash.
Stairwell Statement:
We created a custom chandelier for the stairwell—five tube lights suspended at different heights, giving it a waterfall effect. It’s subtle but hits hard. Right next to it is a backlit Harvard “H” that ties it all together.
Retail Highlights:
Throughout the space, we installed zigzag linear LEDs and pinpoint downlights to spotlight the merch. Flexible and bright where it needs to be, without being overbearing. That’s key in a space where the shelves are always changing.
Impact:
This wasn’t about flashy lighting—it was about precision and respect. The whole package elevated the space, improved energy use, and honored the building’s roots. This is what we do—bridge heritage and modern tech without compromise.
