The Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris has seen the lighting of its main auditorium completely redesigned. A new design by ProjetScénie, awarded the 2025 LIT Award in the Heritage Lighting category, integrates a modern and sustainable lighting solution from Anolis to illuminate the iconic central glass roof shaped like a “shield of light”, as well as the surrounding frescoes.
Built between 1911 and 1913, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées was one of the first examples of Art Deco architecture in Paris. It is recognized as a landmark of modern construction and was listed as a historical monument in 1957.
During his first visit, Yann Jourdan immediately perceived the potential to transform the 35-metre-diameter central glass roof into a true “living and breathing” luminous artwork, using lighting that is sustainable, practical and aesthetic.
In addition to energy efficiency, the brief required a new “classic” lighting scheme for theatrical performances, while also allowing colour changes for special events and celebrations held in the venue. Yann proposed reusing the technical space located between the original concrete roof and the glass ceiling of the auditorium.
To light the glass, part of the ceiling painted white is directly illuminated by strategically positioned Anolis Calumma XL and Calumma M fixtures, which reflect the light and colour the 175 m² of thick glass.
Eminere2 luminaires illuminate the ring of frescoes around the centre. Originally, incandescent bulbs lit the paintings, later replaced by industrial fluorescents that were still in place when ProjetScénie undertook this project. The Eminere2 fixtures were also installed in this technical space, with most of the cabling carefully concealed.
One of the challenges, and also one of the most interesting aspects of the project, Yann emphasized, was the responsibility of re-lighting this exceptional and historically significant cultural space appropriately for contemporary use.
He needed reliable, well-designed luminaires with excellent colour rendering, and for this project, Anolis fixtures met all the technical criteria: colour quality, CRI, dimensions, IP/IK ratings, power supply, control options, etc. In addition, Yann was very happy to work with Anolis again. “We share the same high standards,” he noted.
The 96 Eminere2 luminaires are arranged in two rows of 48 around the ceiling, hidden by the edge of the glass, while evenly illuminating the paintings on the scalloped vault above.
The previous fluorescent fixtures had been masked by scenic elements, but these additional parts are no longer necessary thanks to the more compact size of the Eminere2 and their 60 cm length, ideal for circular light distribution.
Their higher output and more directional beam allow the frescoes to be lit precisely and elegantly, and the Eminere2 fixtures also cast light onto the second balcony, increasing ambient light levels in that area.
The 10 Calumma XL and 12 Calumma M fixtures are positioned in the technical space, centred in relation to the glass roof and aimed at the white ceiling so that the light diffuses through the glass.
This Art Deco architectural artwork was originally commissioned by Auguste Perret, who, together with his brother Gustave Perret, designed the building based on an architectural plan by Henry van de Velde.
“The new installation had to be absolutely perfect,” commented Yann. “It required a 21st-century solution for a 20th-century masterpiece, and Anolis made that possible.”
He was already familiar with the quality and robustness of Anolis products. “I really like these products, the dimming is very smooth and the colour mixing excellent and both ranges met all expectations for this project,” he said, adding that although the IP rating was not decisive here, in the dusty roof void it remains an advantage.
Bruno François, Anolis product specialist at Robe France, worked closely with the design team to create a special white calibration for the Eminere2 covering the 1,800 – 4,000 Kelvin range. They also carried out full 3D modelling to accurately predict colour rendering on the glass.
“As always, it was a pleasure working with Bruno and his team,” Yann emphasized. He considers Anolis a serious brand and appreciates being able to ask precise questions and receive fast answers, with customisation handled smoothly.
The luminaires are controlled via a Visual Production CueCore3 module with touchscreen access, and the Anolis fixtures can also be operated via the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées lighting console when centralised control is required.
The installation was carried out by D6 Bell Light (D6BL), who had to work quickly and carefully, as the glass roof was protected with rigid foam throughout the works. The entire project was delivered in just seven weeks after design concepts were approved, with Yann also needing a partner capable of fast delivery.
More information on the Anolis website and Robe websites
