Protect and Preserve
A thoughtfully integrated lighting modernization protects rare collections, enhances energy efficiency, and preserves the character of one of Philadelphia’s most valued cultural institutions.
Lighting Control System Modernization
Philadelphia, PA
The Rosenbach Museum & Library is among the nation’s leading repositories of rare books, manuscripts, and art. Located in two adjoining 19th-century townhouses in Philadelphia’s Rittenhouse Square, the museum preserves nearly 400,000 items, including the only surviving copy of Benjamin Franklin’s Poor Richard’s Almanack and the manuscript of James Joyce’s Ulysses. As both a historic house museum and a research institution, it requires building systems that balance preservation, conservation, and visitor experience.
As the museum’s lighting and control systems reached the end of their useful life, the institution sought a solution that would better protect sensitive collections while improving energy performance and maintaining the architectural integrity of its historic interiors. EwingCole developed a comprehensive lighting modernization that addresses both artificial lighting and daylight management, ensuring the museum can continue preserving its collections for future generations without compromising the visitor experience.
Protecting the Historic Fabric
The design centers on a discreet, highly efficient lighting control system that minimizes intervention within the historic building. Compact wireless lighting control components reduced the need for invasive installation, preserving original finishes and architectural details throughout the museum. The resulting system remains virtually invisible to visitors while providing curators with significantly greater flexibility and control over gallery lighting.
Carefully programmed lighting schedules automatically respond to museum operating hours, while occupancy sensors reduce unnecessary energy use by dimming or switching off lighting in unoccupied areas. The upgraded system delivers improved operational efficiency while supporting the museum’s long-term conservation and sustainability goals.
Managing Natural Light
Protecting the Rosenbach’s collections also required careful management of daylight in the galleries. Instead of eliminating natural light, the design treats it as a controllable element using several conservation strategies. Optically clear window films reduce ultraviolet radiation and visible light without affecting color rendition or daylight quality, allowing visitors to view artwork under controlled natural illumination.
Discreet blackout shades further protect sensitive collections by eliminating daylight exposure when the museum is closed, reducing cumulative light exposure. During design, the project team created full-scale mockups so museum staff could evaluate various daylight-control strategies before implementation, ensuring the chosen solution balanced conservation with visitor experience.
Building Around the Collection
Maintaining uninterrupted museum operations was essential. Careful phasing and construction logistics allowed work to continue while the Rosenbach remained open, with construction zones isolated to protect exhibitions, research, historic interiors, and collections.
The completed project shows how thoughtful infrastructure improvements can enhance preservation and sustainability without changing the character of a historic building. With precise lighting control, daylight management, and coordinated construction, the Rosenbach is now better equipped to protect its collections and provide an engaging experience for scholars and visitors
