Hallidie is perfect as headquarters for the AIA. Designed by Willis Polk and named for the inventor of the city’s iconic cable car system, the eight-story framed structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, in part for boasting the first glass curtain wall in North America. Today, the building is a candidate for silver-level LEED certification.

Within the building, the new AIA office space is visited by hundreds of design professionals every month, and serves as a showcase for products that contribute to sustainable design. Any redesign of the space would get attention—particularly one that drew heavily from energy-saving technology. The proposed solution would have to be aesthetically appropriate to the minimalist approach of the AIA headquarters, satisfy stringent California energy usage standards like Title 24, and remain sensitive to historic preservation requirements.

Lighting designer Janet Nolan of J S Nolan + Associates Lighting Design was the creative mind behind the sophisticated, yet easy-to-use and responsive lighting solution.

“Lutron created this highly efficient system that responds to the movement of the sun, automatically dropping shades based on time of day and day of week,” says Margie O’Driscoll, the office’s executive director. “A real unforeseen benefit of the system is that we can override it, but we rarely do. The light always seems to be just right. Plus, we’re a small staff with over 50 programs and meetings per month. It makes a meaningful difference that the system functions for the most part on its own. And, for example, when it is time to transform the gallery into a lecture space we are able to quickly change the lights at a touch of a button. Light levels, shades and projection screens respond in unison to our pre-determined preferences. It’s like magic.”

Nolan adds that it also has to function as an office. “The lights need to be responsive to human factors like managing glare, individual ergonomic adjustments, and occupant preferences.”

The ballasts start lamps at any pre-set dimming level (no flashing to full first), and provide smooth, continuous full-range dimming without flicker or jumps in light level. The ballasts also feature patented technology that keeps light levels even, regardless of building electricity quality. Each zone can be programmed, allowing for maximum flexibility of over-all light system.

Christ Surunis, Senior Account Supervisor for Lutron, says, “What we wanted to do with the Hallidie Building was save energy through automated control without compromising occupant comfort and experience. Engraved faceplates for the various control stations make it easy for visitors to understand the purpose of each keypad and easily modify light levels. Each one has clearly defined ‘scene’ buttons, such as exhibit, meeting, event, and presentation.”

That, in turn, sustains the long-term aesthetics and usefulness of furnishings and surfacing materials. The shades also help reduce solar heat build-up in the summer and provide insulation in the winter, protecting fabrics and furnishings and keeping the people in the space conformable. If there is too much daylight coming through the window, the shading system can operate either automatically or respond to a manual push-button control from a variety of locations. “We are pushing to use the Sivoia QED more and more,” says Nolan. “With solar fabrics, the optimal amount of light transmits into the space.

Lutron was great. We worked closely with the local rep, ALR [Associated Lighting Representatives], and a Lutron field service engineer has consistently been available to assist with commissioning, fine-tuning and periodic re-programming.” “At Lutron, we recognize the importance of cooperating with others to ensure appropriate outcomes and lasting results,” said Surunis.

In this application, as a leader in light control, Lutron collaborated with a recognized name in high performance light fixtures, Zumtobel, to deliver a responsive and reliable solution. The components all were pre-assembled and tested at the factory for the benefit and satisfaction of architect, lighting designer, building owner, and occupants. In its blending of modern technology, historical architecture, and aesthetic sensibility, the lighting design for the San Francisco AIA chapter is a testament that old can indeed be made new again.