VIA TRAGARA, CAPRI
The island of Capri, with its history, its landscape and tremendous views, is an icon of classic elegance and the beauty of nature. The Via Tragara dates back to the period when Roman emperors relocated their residences and sometimes even the seat of government to the island. Today, the walking path above the coastline is one of the island’s most famous promenades, with narrow alleyways leading through small arches. On the one side of the pathway, lush vegetation and walls block the view of private residences; on the other side, the ocean can be seen over a low wall. At the end of the pathway, rocks in the ocean called the Faraglioni, part of the Amalfi Coast and houses built on the cliffs of Capri come into view.
Such a location also plays an important role in the evening and night hours. The concept for an appropriately unobtrusive lighting scenario must be based on a fine sense of what is appropriate to the location. Implementing ideal concepts is a question of high quality lighting.
By integrating the EL product series with its reduced forms, we were able to realise such a concept, both in relation to the installation as well as the quality of the light. Elements from the EL series are also used in other projects as façade, area and accent lights with correspondingly configured lighting units installed in the fixtures.
In order not to interrupt the visual flow of the Via Tragara by using wall mounted elements, it was decided that the source of light should be fully integrated into the walls along the footpath, thereby virtually disappearing. The products of the EL system are suited for installation in walls and posts flush with the surface. Printing on the frameless front panel can also help to obscure the constructive elements.
The light fixtures are located far below eye level, preventing them from having a blinding effect. The light is directed outward at a very flat angle and impinges on the opposite wall. Objects along the way and pedestrians from the other direction are thus easily seen. The warm, soft light is consciously directed in a manner that produces fuzzy contours; the entire situation contributes to the pedestrian’s visual comfort.
Project: VIA TRAGARA
Product: EL
Location: CAPRI, ITALY
Client: COMUNE DI CAPRI
Project Year: 2011
Photography: OSKAR DA RIZ