Enhancing Ambience and Control in the Carlton Room, Institute of Directors

The Carlton Room at the Institute of Directors in London is a space that speaks to tradition, prestige, and versatility. Used for everything from executive board meetings and training seminars to intimate dinners and private receptions, it requires a lighting solution that delivers both subtle elegance and complete control. With this in mind, the decision was made to install Ansell Lighting’s C‑Cell IP20 RGBW LED strip—paired with the powerful and intuitive OCTO Smart Control system.

The C‑Cell LED strip was installed seamlessly within an alcove running the full perimeter of the ceiling. The result is a clean, continuous halo of light that subtly enhances the room’s architectural details while also serving as a dynamic tool for mood creation. With dot-free COB (Chip-on-Board) technology, the strip provides beautifully even illumination—free from harsh glare or distracting hotspots—making it ideal for premium hospitality and heritage spaces like the Carlton Room.

But what truly elevates this installation is the integration of OCTO Smart Control, Ansell’s wireless lighting control platform. Using OCTO, venue staff can instantly tailor the room’s lighting scenes, adjusting colour, brightness, and tone from a smartphone, tablet, or wall-mounted interface. With OCTO, the lighting becomes fully programmable and responsive to how the space is being used.

The RGBW functionality of the C‑Cell strip allows for full spectrum colour control, as well as tunable white light—from warm candlelight tones through to bright daylight whites. Thanks to OCTO, each section of lighting can be controlled independently or synchronised, giving the staff ultimate flexibility in setting the tone.

With OCTO, the switch between these scenes is immediate and effortless. Preset scenes can be created for recurring events, while custom settings can be applied in real-time for more tailored experiences. The lighting not only adapts to the event—it enhances the atmosphere, providing a sense of polish and intention that contributes to the overall experience of the space.

Installation of the C‑Cell strip and OCTO system was designed to be minimally invasive. The LED strip, with its self-adhesive backing and simple plug-and-play connections, was recessed into the ceiling alcove without any visible disruption to the room’s elegant interior. The wireless nature of the OCTO system meant no extensive cabling was required, making it an ideal choice for retrofit projects within heritage buildings.

The result is a sophisticated, future-proof lighting solution that aligns with the historic prestige of the Institute while offering the flexibility and intelligence expected in modern venue management. The Carlton Room can now transition effortlessly between use cases, delivering a tailored lighting experience for every guest, every time.