Transforming the entrance of the Alsion Centre, Denmark with P-cell RGB LED strip solution

Project Overview

Located in Sønderborg, Denmark, the Alsion Centre is a renowned cultural and educational landmark that houses the University of Southern Denmark’s Sønderborg campus, the South Jutland Symphony Orchestra’s world-class concert hall, and a range of public and academic facilities. Designed by the architectural firm 3XNielsen, the centre is celebrated for its sleek modern lines and integration of knowledge, art, and technology. As part of an initiative to enhance the visual appeal and flexibility of its main entrance, the centre sought a dynamic lighting solution capable of supporting a variety of events, moods, and architectural accents. Ansell Lighting was chosen to deliver this vision, with a design that would respect the building’s elegant architecture while providing cutting-edge functionality.

The Challenge

The Alsion Centre’s main entrance is marked by distinctive concrete pillars that form a strong visual statement. The challenge lay in introducing lighting that would seamlessly integrate into these structures without detracting from their clean, modern design. The client needed a system that would deliver high-quality, vivid colour-changing effects for themed events, holidays, university occasions, and performances. Moreover, it was essential that the solution be easy to operate for the centre’s staff, while maintaining the highest standards of durability and energy efficiency suitable for a high-traffic public space.

Ansell Lighting Solution

To meet these requirements, Ansell Lighting supplied the P-Cell IP20 RGB system, known for its exceptional RGB colour rendering and slim profile suitable for architectural integration. These LED fixtures were installed within the vertical recesses of the entrance pillars, allowing for a striking transformation of the space. The P-Cell IP20 RGB is designed specifically for indoor applications where high-impact, colour-changing light is desired without compromising on design aesthetics. Its robust construction and low-profile form allowed it to blend naturally with the pillars while delivering vibrant, even illumination that dramatically enhances the entrance at night.

Crucially, the entire installation was paired with Ansell’s OCTO Smart Control System, giving the Alsion Centre’s team intuitive, app-based control over the lighting. Through OCTO, staff can easily select colours, set dynamic scenes, schedule changes, and adjust brightness to match the mood or requirements of any event, all from their smartphone or tablet. This flexibility ensures that the lighting can be tailored to concerts, academic ceremonies, public events, or seasonal displays with minimal effort.

Bespoke LED Strip Service

Recognising the unique architectural demands of the project, Ansell’s Bespoke LED Strip Service played a central role in delivering a perfect-fit solution. The entrance pillars required LED strips cut to precise lengths to ensure seamless installation within their narrow channels. Using the bespoke service, Ansell supplied pre-cut and pre-soldered strips, each labelled for easy on-site installation, significantly reducing labour time and complexity while eliminating the risk of errors during assembly.

This service also included the selection and supply of appropriate drivers, guaranteeing optimal performance and compatibility with the OCTO controls. The LED strips themselves featured 24V DC operation with typical wattage of around 14.4 W/m (depending on final design spec), full RGB colour mixing for millions of hues, and precise cut points to ensure a custom fit. Fully dimmable via the OCTO system, these strips provided the flexibility and quality demanded by a high-profile public installation.

Results and Benefits

The result is a stunning transformation of the Alsion Centre’s main entrance. The previously austere pillars are now highlighted by vibrant, dynamic lighting that offers an inviting and contemporary feel, while respecting the building’s original design language. Staff can easily adapt the colours and scenes to suit concerts, academic events, holidays, or cultural themes, ensuring the entrance always provides the right ambience for visitors. The OCTO smart control system makes day-to-day operation effortless, giving the centre a powerful yet accessible tool to enhance its identity and presence.

Beyond aesthetics, the use of energy-efficient LED technology ensures low running costs and long service life, while the bespoke nature of the installation means minimal maintenance and maximum reliability. This project demonstrates how Ansell Lighting’s advanced products and custom services can deliver a complete, elegant, and highly functional lighting solution tailored to even the most architecturally demanding spaces.