Collingswood Scottish Rite Auditroium Lighting Upgrade
Collingswood Scottish Rite Project Background
The Excelsior Scottish Rite Temple, also known as the Collingswood Scottish Rite Auditorium, is a historic venue with roots tracing back to the early 20th century. Originally a mansion owned by notable figures such as Samuel French and later owned by Edward Collings Knight Sr., the property was purchased by the Excelsior Scottish Rite in 1930. Since 2003, it has been leased by the Borough of Collingswood and managed by the Collingswood Foundation for the Arts, hosting over a million guests in its classic venue for over 20 years.
Our relationship with the Scottish Rite Auditorium dates back to 2006 when Starlite upgraded their performance lighting control system to an ETC system. This long-standing partnership, coupled with our role as a rental resource for their productions and concerts, positioned us as the ideal partner for their house lighting upgrade project.
Project Challenges
The auditorium’s existing house lighting system was outdated and inefficient:
Incandescent lighting fixtures housed in glass reflectors were energy-intensive and costly to operate.
The old fixtures generated excessive heat, particularly problematic given their proximity to the historic stained glass ceiling.
The over 30-year-old Kliegl Brothers lighting control system was severely outdated.
Wall sconces throughout the theater used inefficient incandescent bulbs.
Starlite’s Solution
Starlite’s Systems Integration Team proposed and implemented a comprehensive lighting upgrade that included:
- Down Lighting (House Lighting): Installed 57 new Light Source HL-series architectural LED down lights, replacing 326 incandescent fixtures.
- Wall Sconces: Upgraded 12 sconces with ETC ArcLamps, transitioning from incandescent to LED technology.
- Control System: Implemented a new ETC Paradigm lighting control system, including architectural lighting controls and an emergency lighting system.
Original fixtures above stained glass
New HL-series fixtures
Execution
The execution of this project was a complex undertaking that required careful planning, expert implementation, and close collaboration to navigate the unique challenges presented by the historic venue.
The project’s scope encompassed a comprehensive overhaul of the auditorium’s house lighting system. After demolition of the previous fixtures was completed, our team installed 57 new Light Source HL series architectural LED down lights, working with utmost care around and above the historic stained glass ceiling. Simultaneously, we integrated the new ETC Paradigm control system and emergency controls, replacing the outdated Kliegl Brothers system. The upgrade also extended to the theater’s decorative lighting, where we replaced the wall sconces and lamps with energy-efficient ETC ArcLamps, transitioning from incandescent to LED technology with advanced dim-to-warm functionality. This comprehensive approach ensured a complete modernization of the venue’s lighting infrastructure while preserving its historic charm.
The project’s execution was shaped by several significant challenges:
Limited Access: The historic catwalk and confined space above the antique stained glass windows posed considerable difficulties for our team during the installation of new lighting fixtures and support structures. This required innovative approaches and specialized equipment to ensure safe and effective work.
Electrical Constraints: The venue’s older electrical infrastructure, including dated wiring and conduits, necessitated careful planning and execution for new installations. Our team partnered closely with Chammings Electric Inc. (the venue’s electrical contractor) to find solutions that respected the building’s historical integrity while meeting modern electrical standards.
Delicate Work Environment: The presence of the antique stained glass ceiling demanded extraordinary care and precision. Our team implemented specialized protective measures and worked with heightened awareness to prevent any damage to these irreplaceable historical elements.
With a project having many difficulties ahead, Starlite made the entire process extremely easy to complete. Working in a space built in 1931 that hadn’t been upgraded since was a major feat. From the initial stages of design all the way through installation, the communication and customer service were incredible. Choosing fixtures that would provide the coverage and brightness we needed while shooting through the stained-glass ceiling was a challenge. The design team knocked it out of the park with their choice of fixtures. After seeing them in our theatre for a demo, we knew this was what we needed. Coming in right at, or even a little under, budget was a huge plus thanks to our sales rep, Bob Wolfe. Your installation team was nothing but professional and helpful during this process. Most of the time, they were working, and we didn’t even realize they were still in the building. Post-installation support for minor changes to programming and any questions has been amazing. We could not be happier with the overall product we received. Starlite will be our first call for any future lighting projects!
Collaboration
To address these challenges and ensure the best possible outcome, Starlite collaborated closely with Brandon Creel of Hewshott, an independent theater consultancy. This partnership was crucial in developing a precise lighting design that not only worked within the venue’s architectural constraints but also met its functional and aesthetic needs. The collaborative approach allowed us to leverage combined expertise in historic venue renovations and cutting-edge lighting technology.
Throughout the execution phase, our team maintained open communication channels with the client, consultants, and other stakeholders. Joe Schramm (Production Manager) and Paula Lara (Executive Director) helped facilitate this project’s progression. This ensured that any unforeseen issues could be quickly addressed and that the project remained aligned with the client’s vision and the venue’s historical significance.
Despite the challenges, Starlite’s Systems Integration Team successfully completed the project, delivering a state-of-the-art lighting system that respects and enhances the venue’s historic character while providing significant improvements in functionality, energy efficiency, and control.
The Results
The lighting upgrade resulted in significant improvements:
- Energy Efficiency: LED fixtures dramatically reduced power consumption and heat generation.
- Enhanced Control: The new ETC Paradigm system provided modern, flexible lighting control options.
- Improved Aesthetics: Updated house lighting and sconces enhanced the venue’s appearance while respecting its historic character.
- Cost Savings: Reduced energy consumption and longer-lasting LED technology will result in long-term cost savings.
This project showcases Starlite’s ability to navigate complex, historically sensitive environments while delivering cutting-edge lighting solutions. By successfully upgrading the Collingswood Scottish Rite Auditorium’s house lighting system, we’ve not only improved the venue’s functionality and efficiency but also contributed to the preservation of a significant historical landmark.
The challenges faced and overcome during this project have further enhanced our team’s expertise, preparing us for future complex installations in historic venues.