Inspirations

Novatec in Leek

Inclusive lighting concept for focus and calm

26.03.2026

Leek, Netherlands

Location

A new building needs more than just four walls and a roof - especially for Novatec in Leek. The social development company of the municipality of Westerkwartier (province of Groningen) provides jobs for people with disabilities. Peace and quiet, an overview and comfort are not luxury goods here, but just as necessary as having a roof over your head. Lighting plays a decisive role here. Together with its installation partner Koninklijke Damstra, Van Triest Lichtkonzepten developed a plan with TRILUX luminaires that goes far beyond "sufficient light".

Lighting design with people and space in mind

"People with autism are among those who work at Novatec. This is precisely why a high degree of lighting uniformity is essential," begins Eduard Schippers, lighting specialist at Van Triest. Without harsh contrasts and glare, but with calm and focus, he created the basis for a future-proof, flexible and, above all, pleasantly lit building - both inside and out.

The lighting concept blends seamlessly into the sustainable character of the new building. The architectural firm TWA from Burdaard designed an energy self-sufficient complex focussing on people and the environment. It was built with recycled materials, over 400 solar panels and a climate-proof outdoor area. The requirements were quickly clear, but the realisation was less obvious: "The building consists of different heights, sloping ceilings and various rooms. In such an environment, dark zones quickly become a threat." Achieving good uniformity was therefore a major challenge. “We started with a detailed lighting plan in which we brought design and technology together from the outset.”

The lighting enquiry came via Van Triest's long-standing cooperation partner, Koninklijke Damstra. "As a lighting planner, I initially developed the lighting design. Damstra then drew up a realistic budget on this basis. We presented this overall concept to the client," explains Schippers. "We were then able to refine, make adjustments and work towards approval. Only then did we start the final design phase, in which all the drawings were finalised to ensure smooth installation and assembly."

Customised reflectors

Thanks to the extensive portfolio with various luminaires and price points, Schippers did not hesitate for a moment in choosing TRILUX. "I can always find a suitable solution with TRILUX, even with complex requirements such as in this project." The municipality of Westerkwartier, the client for the new Novatec building, demanded a service life of 100,000 operating hours for each luminaire. TRILUX was able to fulfil these requirements. In addition, there was a strict lux requirement for the emergency lighting due to the target group: not 1, but 10 lux. "You can't achieve that with a standard emergency light. I was able to reach this level with TRILUX. TRILUX also offered a further advantage: the option of customising reflectors to minimise glare. This also makes the light more pleasant for the people who work here."

One building, different atmospheres

In the same package of requirements, the municipality wanted to vary the lighting without losing the uniform appearance. "The building consists of two areas that are furnished in the same way inside and have the same ceiling structure. A conscious decision was made to design the individual zones differently. The offices are equipped with Arimo 60×60 LED panels. In the canteen, on the other hand, Sonnos downlights were used to create stronger accents. An E-Line light line system is used in the work areas. As the luminaires are well matched in terms of housing colour and appearance, a harmonious and uniform overall appearance is created. By synchronising the lights, we could also create a consistent atmosphere."

Intelligent control for maximum flexibility

All lighting, including the outdoor lighting, is DALI dimmable and linked to a lighting management system. This means that each room can be controlled individually and prepared for future adaptations. Motion and daylight sensors ensure maximum energy savings. Schippers says: "What is special about this project is that the outdoor lighting can also be dimmed. Stricter requirements for nighttime light levels are playing an increasingly important role in municipal buildings. I have also taken this into account in this lighting plan."

Collaboration as a silent success factor

The installation went smoothly, without any unexpected hurdles or challenges. This is no coincidence, says the lighting specialist from Van Triest: “Thanks to our existing partnership with Damstra, we know what we can rely on. The same applies to TRILUX. With good work preparation, you are optimally coordinated. You notice this both in the preparations and on the construction site.”

Novatec also draws a positive conclusion: "I recently carried out a light measurement to check whether our previous assumptions were correct. Everything came out as planned and intended. The employees are also consistently satisfied. That's what we do it for!"“

The site offers space for five Novatec production halls and four workshops for the Westerkwartier municipality's field service team. A total of 275 employees will find their new home here - in a place where everything is just right. Even the light.

Editors

Yannik Bös

Corporate Communication
TRILUX

Novatec in Leek

Inclusive lighting concept for focus and calm