Shanghai Me
Designer: Lighting Design Studio
Set on the top floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane, Shanghai Me brings together the nostalgic glamour of 1930s Shanghai with a contemporary dining experience defined by atmosphere, material richness and expansive views across London’s skyline. The lighting scheme, developed by Lighting Design Studio, was carefully conceived to enhance the interior without competing with the defining feature of the space, allowing light to support the experience rather than dominate it.
Within this context, Applelec Projects were brought in not only to supply specialist lighting solutions, but to actively support the delivery of the design. Working closely with the project team, including BAH and Spectra Stone, the focus was on developing solutions that were both true to the design intent and fully achievable within the realities of the build. This collaborative approach ensured that the illuminated elements worked seamlessly with the selected surfaces, while also supporting the programme and helping the wider team meet key deadlines.
From the moment guests arrive, the reception ceiling establishes the material and lighting language of the space. A combination of alabaster finishes and decorative metalwork is brought to life using Applelec RGBW LED Light Sheet, engineered into ten custom sized panels. The ultra slim profile allowed the system to sit comfortably within the restricted ceiling void, while delivering uniform illumination across the surface. Integrated into the venue’s lighting control system, the ceiling is able to shift in tone and intensity, subtly adapting to the rhythm of the space throughout the day.
Moving into the bar area, the complexity of the design increases. The back bar and gantry required a lighting solution that could respond to intricate construction details without compromising on visual consistency. Auragami flexible LED panels were selected for their adaptability, allowing the installation team to cut panels to size on site and achieve a precise fit.
Applelec Projects both supplied and installed the Auragami system, with on site support from an Applelec electrical engineer to ensure correct integration and performance. Thirty eight panels were used across the back bar and a further twenty within the gantry, all delivering even illumination across illuminated stone surfaces while maintaining alignment with the overall lighting scheme.
This approach continues into the restaurant itself, where illuminated wall panels extend the visual language established at the bar and reception. Using seventy six Auragami panels, these features provide depth and cohesion across the space, reinforcing a layered lighting approach that enhances materiality without overwhelming it.
Throughout the project, Applelec’s role extended beyond product supply. By working in close collaboration with the design and delivery teams, and through hands on project management and installation support, each element was developed as part of a unified solution rather than a standalone component.
The result is a series of integrated illuminated surfaces that deliver consistent, seamless light, sit discreetly within the architecture and support both daytime clarity and evening atmosphere.
Shanghai Me demonstrates how carefully engineered backlighting can elevate a space through precision, collaboration and considered delivery. Each intervention is subtle, allowing the interior, the materials and the views beyond to remain the focus.
For a contrasting expression within the same project, where lighting becomes more dynamic and immersive, the Bund lounge explores how integrated systems can shift from subtle enhancement to a defining part of the experience.
Explore the Bund lounge case study to see how integrated lighting and control transformed the venue into an immersive evening experience. Take a look >
Image sources:
Lighting Design Studio, Shanghai Me Instagram, Simone Merluzzi, Nawaf Ali