Cleveland has been experiencing a cultural renaissance, with its arts, architecture, and history drawing in tourists and locals alike. However, Destination Cleveland wanted to further increase downtown’s appeal by making it a visually compelling nighttime destination. The goal was to illuminate iconic landmarks and public spaces while ensuring the lighting design was both functional and aesthetically striking. VLS was brought on board to demonstrate what could be achieved using cutting-edge lighting technologies.
This exciting project aimed to turn Cleveland’s cityscape into a captivating nighttime attraction, enhancing its appeal as a cultural and tourism hub. Inspired by similar projects in Indianapolis, Montreal, and Brussels, this collaboration sought to showcase the power of lighting to elevate public spaces and enhance the urban experience.
To bring this vision to life, VLS and Destination Cleveland set up a limited demonstration in Public Square on July 12, 2023, showcasing the future of Cleveland’s illuminated landscape. VLS deployed professional-grade fixtures from VariLite, Savanna, SGM, and Mythos to create a mesmerizing lighting experience, transforming Cleveland’s iconic landmarks—including Old Stone Church, Public Square Fountain, and the Standard Building—with vibrant colors, dynamic patterns, and Cleveland’s slogan, “The Land for Life.”
Steve Arnold, VLS Project Designer, approached the lighting installation as if Public Square were a stage. The design included colorful building facades, aerial beams and effects, and custom gobo projections on both the ground and building exteriors. “Our objective was to use lighting to enhance the events that take place on the Square,” Arnold explained. “The ability to spotlight key areas and project custom gobos is a central feature of the design.”
Additionally, all lighting fixtures were designed for permanent outdoor installation, with the majority being LED-based moving lights, offering flexibility for both individual and multi-event lighting setups.
VLS’s team meticulously planned the demonstration, ensuring that the fixtures’ locations allowed for maximum coverage and versatility in spotlighting or color-washing the entire square. On the night of the demo, the results were met with overwhelming public support, as the colorful lighting and dynamic projections captivated onlookers. From the illuminated facades to the aerial lighting effects that bathed the skyline, the installation transformed Public Square into a vibrant and immersive nighttime spectacle.
The demonstration was a resounding success, not only for Cleveland’s officials and residents but also as an inspiration for other cities looking to elevate their public spaces through lighting. The project exemplified how lighting can transform urban landscapes into safe, inviting, and visually compelling environments, driving tourism, fostering economic growth, and bolstering community pride.
Looking ahead, the long-term goal is to establish a permanent installation that will further cement Cleveland’s status as a must-visit destination. The VLS team is optimistic that this demonstration will inspire cities across the country to explore similar initiatives, whether through permanent installations or temporary setups for seasonal events.
Vincent Lighting Systems’ partnership with Destination Cleveland marks a significant step in the city’s ongoing cultural transformation. By blending artistry with cutting-edge lighting technology, VLS has demonstrated how thoughtfully designed lighting installations can enrich public spaces, encourage tourism, and build a sense of community pride.
Long-time VLS Account Executive Mandi Stevens expressed her personal connection to the project, having worked closely with Destination Cleveland since December 2022. “As a native of Cleveland, this project is incredibly meaningful to me,” Stevens shared. “To be part of this endeavor and witness the city’s transformation has been a career highlight.”
