The Tournai Tapestry at Montacute House is recognised as the oldest tapestry in the National Trust’s care, dating back to the 15th century. With such a rare and fragile piece on display, the Trust faced a critical challenge: how to illuminate this treasured artefact without accelerating its deterioration. The room’s window boards could only be opened for limited periods each day due to the risk of UV damage, and traditional lighting methods were simply not viable.
Connected Light was brought in to consult on a tailored solution that would meet strict conservation requirements while elevating the visitor experience. Working closely with the National Trust team, we explored lighting technologies that would respect the delicate nature of the tapestry fibres, while also revealing the piece in a new, more vibrant light.
Our recommendation was a state-of-the-art Casambi-enabled track spotlighting system. Each fixture was specified as tuneable white, dimmable and with adjustable beam angles – all fully controllable via the Casambi app. The key benefit here was the ability to fine-tune both the colour temperature and intensity without emitting any harmful UV light, thanks to high-specification LED light sources.
To minimise the visual impact and preserve the historic room setting, we designed and installed a discreet mobile lighting rig, fully concealed yet entirely adaptable. CRI90 LED chipsets were selected to enhance the depth of colour across the tapestry, bringing clarity to the red and gold threads while using cooler tones to subtly highlight the Knight’s armour. This dynamic contrast created a new level of visual storytelling within the exhibit.
From concept to commissioning, Connected Light managed every stage – designing, testing, supplying and installing the bespoke rig. The result was not just improved visibility, but a carefully balanced lighting environment that protects the textile’s integrity while enriching the viewing experience.
“This was a truly special project for us,” says Matt Holway, Director at Connected Light. “We needed to create a solution that was visually effective, but also conservation-safe. The final installation strikes that perfect balance – enhancing detail without compromising preservation.”
This installation continues our long-standing relationship with the National Trust, featured among many heritage-focused projects we’ve delivered. As with all our work, it reflects our commitment to precision, conservation sensitivity and expert lighting design.
For more on our work with Casambi wireless lighting control, visit our Casambi partner page.
As a long-standing partner of ConnectedLight, Signify Commercial UKI is proud to be associated with such an adaptable and innovative company. ConnectedLight's expertise in lighting services,... Read More
I have recently been working with Connected Light on a number of Lifecycle projects in the education sector and they have been great to work with, from conception and scoping works through to the delivery and installation.... Read More
As a member of BS 5266 I am so excited to see such suitable, diligent, compliant processing from Connected Light. BS 5266 pt. 1 is a Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises.... Read More
As a long-standing partner of ConnectedLight, Signify Commercial UKI is proud to be associated with such an adaptable and innovative company. ConnectedLight's expertise in lighting services, combined with Signify's cutting-edge technology and products, has resulted in a strong and dynamic partnership that consistently delivers outstanding lighting solutions. This collaboration has enabled us to provide our customers with sustainable lighting solutions, which have exceeded expectations in terms of efficiency, functionality, and aesthetics. We highly recommend ConnectedLight for their exceptional lighting services and look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come.
I have recently been working with Connected Light on a number of Lifecycle projects in the education sector and they have been great to work with, from conception and scoping works through to the delivery and installation.
They have been attentive to changes and client requirements as well as knowledgeable of the lighting systems required for a school setting and have delivered a bespoke product that the end users are very happy with. I can trust Matt and the rest of the team to come up with a solution to fit whatever criteria I’ve thrown their way that is both fit for purpose and within budget constraints! Designs are thorough and detailed and the installation works on site have always been carried out safely and with a high standard of housekeeping and pride. I look forward to continuing working with the Connected Light team!
As a member of BS 5266 I am so excited to see such suitable, diligent, compliant processing from Connected Light. BS 5266 pt. 1 is a Code of practice for the emergency lighting of premises. This is the base document that calls up relevant standards and outlines how they should be interfaced. It also details how types of emergency lighting systems should be designed, installed, commissioned, and tested for different types of premises. Installation and wiring considerations are detailed and the appropriate testing and commissioning documentation are defined.
Connected Light as a member of the Fire Industry Association and competent compliance with BAFE SP203 part 4 adheres to appropriate verification for suitable compliance with all of their customers.