stage-edge lighting im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Case study · Humboldt University of Berlin · Main auditorium and cinema

LED Step and Stage-Edge Lighting at Humboldt University of Berlin

The main auditorium (Audimax) and cinema require different solutions for steps, stage edges and controls. This project shows how recessed lighting can be integrated into both spaces and upgraded later: designed in 2023/2024, installed in 2025 and adapted for DALI in 2026.

Discuss your project Explore the DALI upgrade ↓
2023/24Design and technical development
2025Installation in the Audimax and cinema
2026Retrofitted with DALI control
Approx. 96 mPOM light lines in the Audimax alone
The brief

One lighting solution for different areas.

In the Audimax, custom POM light lines were fitted along the stage edge, side stairways and upper tier. In the cinema, stage-edge lighting and side steps complete the installation.

The system was installed in 2025. In 2026, the existing lighting was adapted for DALI and integrated with the building automation system, without rebuilding the installed light lines.

SystemCustom POM recessed luminaires were manufactured for the stage edges and steps, integrated flush with the surfaces and connected into the overall control system.
stage-edge lighting auf der stage im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax: The flush-integrated stage edge forms a clear light line without dominating the architecture.
Audimax · Stage

The stage edge and side stairways form a cohesive lighting scheme.

The POM recessed luminaires clearly outline the stage edge and extend the same discreet lighting effect to the side stairways. The full-room view shows how these elements work together.

overall view der stage-edge lighting im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax: Overall view of the illuminated stage edge, clearly visible from a distance.
Detail der stage-edge lighting im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax: A precise, flush-fitting light line follows the stage edge.
step lighting am Seitenaufgang der stage im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax: The side stairways to the stage follow the same lighting approach.
Circuit 1Steps 1 / 3 / and so onOne set of steps in the upper tier is supplied through its own power-supply group.
Circuit 2Steps 2 / 4 / and so onThe intervening steps are assigned to a separate power-supply group.
Design principleA fault does not affect every stepAlternating circuits improve operational resilience in the upper tier.
Audimax · Upper tier

Long upper-tier steps with even, clearly defined lighting.

The POM light lines follow the long step geometry of the upper tier. Forty-four metres of recessed luminaires were alternated across two circuits, providing clear wayfinding across the tier.

step lighting auf der rechten Seite des upper tier im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax, upper tier: Overall view of illuminated steps on the right-hand side.
step lighting auf der linken Seite des upper tier im Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax, upper tier: Illuminated steps on the left-hand side.
POM-step lighting im oberen Rang des Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax, upper tier: Continuous POM light lines along the leading edges of the steps.
Lange beleuchtete Stufen im oberen Rang des Audimax der Humboldt University Berlin
Audimax, upper tier: Long steps with an even lighting effect.
Upper tier44 metres of recessed luminaires divided alternately between two circuits for a robust, straightforward installation.
Audimax · Complete system

POM recessed luminaires for stage, side stairways and upper tier.

The POM recessed luminaires were tailored to different lengths, angles and step geometries, creating a consistent, clearly visible lighting effect across the Audimax.

ProjectHumboldt-Universität Berlin
AreaAudimax
SpecificationPOM recessed luminaires 15 × 12 mm
ScopeApprox. 96 m in the Audimax
ControlsAdapted for DALI in 2026
Upper tier44 m, divided across two circuits
2026 · DALI upgrade

2026: Upgrading the existing installation for DALI.

For integration with the building automation system, the lighting installed in 2025 was adapted for DALI in 2026. The existing light lines were retained; the control layer was specifically upgraded.

This allowed the original installation to remain in use while meeting the building's updated requirements.

The system design made it possible to adapt the controls to changing requirements even after installation.
DesignProject-specific design in 2023/2024
InstallationInstalled in the Audimax and cinema in 2025
SystemPOM recessed luminaires, 15 × 12 mm, 24 V DC
LEDWarm white, 4.8 W/m
Upper tierAlternating layout across two circuits
2026Integration of the existing system with DALI and building automation
Cinema

Cinema: Stage-edge and side-step lighting for clear orientation.

In the cinema, the overall view shows how POM recessed lighting unifies the stage edge and side steps into a discreet, continuous lighting scheme.

stage-edge lighting im cinema der Humboldt University Berlin
Cinema: Overall view of the illuminated stage edge.
step lighting und stage-edge lighting im cinema der Humboldt University Berlin
Cinema: Stage edge and adjacent side steps form a continuous light line.
The result

One integrated project, from design to DALI retrofit.

POM recessed luminaires outline stage edges, side steps and long step runs in the Audimax and cinema. Designed in 2023/2024, installed in 2025 and extended for DALI in 2026.

Flush-integrated POM luminairesLight lines precisely follow the stage edges, side steps and long step runs.
Consistent lighting effectThe luminaires create clear, discreet edge definition in the Audimax and cinema.
An installation built to evolveThe system installed in 2025 was adapted to DALI building automation in 2026.
Good lighting solutions fit the architecture and remain adaptable as technical requirements change.
Auditoriums, cinemas and existing buildings

Step or stage-edge lighting for a new build or refurbishment?

A photograph or drawing, approximate lengths and any known control requirements are usually enough for an initial assessment. We assess DALI, DMX and existing systems in the context of your project.

Discuss your project 07261 / 659 012 0
For an initial assessment, we need only:A photo or drawing, approximate lengths, installation details and any known dimming, DALI/DMX or power-supply requirements. Unknown details can be clarified later.