A stunning lighting transformation of Salford Cathedral

CBG have been working on the relighting of both the interior and exterior of Salford Cathedral since they were appointed in 2017, as part of their a major refurbishment with Purcell Architects and The Diocese of Salford.

The exterior lighting scheme has been designed to accentuate the architectural character after dark, ensuring the Cathedral remains a prominent landmark in the city nightscape, which seen from many parts of Salford and Manchester. The tower and spire have been illuminated to reinforce the cathedral’s verticality and civic presence, with all façades lit to create a coherent and dignified after-dark character.

The interior scheme is centred around a series of beautiful decorative pendants designed by CBG’s Light Perceptions team, working closely with Chris Cotton, Architect and Purcell to ensure that they sit perfectly within the new decorative interior scheme.

The central lighting design concept was to create a visual progression through the cathedral with the pendants increasing in complexity of structure, design and ornamentation as we get closer to the East End. As visitors enter from the West End, they encounter relatively simple pendant forms. As they move eastwards towards the Sanctuary, the pendants become increasingly elaborate, with richer detailing, more decorative finishes, and greater visual presence.

The largest feature fitting is the pendant above the font in the Baptistry, measuring approximately four metres in diameter.

Within the Sanctuary, decorative coronae encircle the columns, creating a sense of ceremony and focus. Additional candle-style lighting integrated into the sanctuary screens contributes to a more intimate and contemplative atmosphere.

The most ornate lighting elements are located within the eastern chapels, where highly decorative pendants are complemented by matching floor-standing luminaires.

Tatiana Demelas Gomez, Senior Lighting Designer at CBG explains, “It has been a real privilege to be involved in the design of this wonderfully decorative pendant scheme together with Director Bruce Kirk over the last five years.

“To see the installation be realised has been a wonderful experience. One of the most satisfying moments has been witnessing how the designs translate into reality, at full scale and within their architectural setting.

“My personal favourite is the pendant in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, as well as the impressive 4-metre diameter pendant above the font in the Baptistry. The scale is remarkable, but what really gives it meaning is the symbolism it carries, suggesting the descent of the Holy Spirit over the baptismal font.”

To highlight the key architectural and liturgical features of the building discreet spotlighting has also been used, with many of the fittings hidden behind architectural structures. These support not only the liturgy but also the very important musical life of the cathedral.

Learn more about Salford Cathedral’s ‘Restoring the Glory’ project, from start to finish, and see BBC News coverage of the project

The cathedral will re-open fully in the next few weeks, with more images and footage available soon.

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