Aglo
A Beacon of Warmth and Elegance
Client
LDP (Lighting Design Partnership)
Duration
4 weeks
Role
Researcher,
Interaction designer,
Tools
Figma, Rhino
Project Description
The concept of our design is based on the relation of Nepal and its strong connection to the use of fire and wood. This can be seen in the upper part of the bollard which is designed to resemble the campfire-wood. Its representation of a ‘campfire’ is made to create a sort of welcoming feeling and security against the wildlife surrounding the location of the resort, as a ‘beacon of light’.
The name ‘Aglo’ is a shortened, abstract combination of "Aago" (“fire” in Nepali) and "Glow," which is simple but evocative in explaining the core concept.
Objective
Ensure safe nighttime movement for guests and staff along outdoor pathways.
Enhance the visual and spatial experience, reflecting the site’s natural and cultural context.
Support sustainability through thoughtful material selection and energy-efficient lighting.
Prioritize ease of maintenance with simple, durable construction.
Design Challenge
Create a design that balances:
Functionality – meet safety and lighting requirements.
Aesthetics – integrate beautifully into the landscape.
Material choice – use sustainable, locally inspired materials.
Maintenance – simple tools and long-term durability.
Minimize light spill while creating a distinctive visual identity for the resort.
Overall Installation
Final stimulation Scene
Daytime Simulation Scene
Nighttime Simulation Scene
Exploded Diagram
Scale Diagram
Interaction Method
Functional Benefits
Bollard remains in passive lighting mode at 10 lux for ambient visibility.
Motion Detection
An infrared sensor detects movement within a 1.65 m range (half the width of a 3.3 m pedestrian path).
Trigger Response
Once motion is detected, the bollard activates a flickering light effect for 10 seconds, simulating a flaming campfire.
The flickering creates a welcoming and symbolic experience for pedestrians.
Return to Passive
After 10 seconds, the bollard automatically returns to its default 10 lux mode.
Functional Benefits
Reduces energy consumption and light pollution with dimmable lighting.
Enhances safety by creating presence-based illumination and helping deter wildlife.
Solution Highlights
Culturally Rooted Design
Inspired by the Nepali tradition of wood and fire, Aglo reflects the symbolism of warmth, protection, and spirituality—embodying the essence of a campfire to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests
Climate Adaptation
Designed for Nepal’s monsoon weather and high flood risk with durable materials and IP65-rated lighting—resilient to heavy rain and outdoor exposure.
Symbolic Form Language
The triangular wood arrangement references Nepali fire rituals and creates a 'beacon of light', metaphorically linking natural fire, cultural heritage, and modern illumination.
Ecological Sensitivity
Responds to the wildlife-rich setting of Meghauli and reduces light pollution through dimmable LEDs, which also help deter animals and reduce power use.
Design Process
Project Site: The Research
Meghauli
Nepal is subjected to floods in its lower-plain areas, especially in the South. The highest flood rate that was recorded in our site, Meghauli, was in 2019, where it reached 0.3m in height.
Flood
Offers strong potential for nature tourism and luxury eco-resorts, due to its proximity to Chitwan National Park
A prime destination for wildlife safaris and birdwatching
Home to diverse religious communities enriching its cultural context
Local communities generally support conservation but express frustration over wildlife conflicts, such as crop damage and livestock losses caused by rhinoceroses and tigers.
The dimmable light, activated by infrared sensors, reduces light pollution and helps deter animal trespassing
Wood carving industries create ongoing demand for timber, and creates a waste generation of 50% during manufacturing.
Responsible sourcing of wood from community forest
Important in both the Hindu and Buddhist tradition, which are the predominant religions in Nepal.
Used for cooking in many Nepali households and is considered divine. It is the symbol that connects the physical and spiritual realm.
FIRE
Construction of Temples
Architectural elements
wooden frameworks
beams pillars
doors & wooden joinery
Wooden Carvings
WOODS
WOODS
A2: EVIDENCE-BASED DESIGN
Cultural relevance
Lighting Outcome
For our Aglo bollard, we chose to use a LED luminaire, and we selected the Aurora mPro™ Fixed IP65 Fire-Rated Dimmable Downlight (Fixed mPro™ Fire-Rated 6W 560lm 2700K Downlight – Auroralighting.com, n.d.). This luminaire has several excellent features and characteristics, making it an ideal choice.
The top module
Infrared sensor
Removable top panel
LED luminaire downlight
Protective Cover for LED Installation
Top panel slot
LED slot
Energy Efficiency: 94 lm/W; 560 lumens at only 6W power consumption.
Voltage: 220–240V, compatible with Nepal’s 230V system.
Lifespan: 70,000 hours for long-term use and low maintenance.
Durability: IP65 rated – dust-tight and water-resistant for outdoor conditions.
Light Quality: Even distribution with 3 downlights per pole, 60° beam angle, and diffuser lenses for a warm, balanced glow.
Lamp Installation
During installation, the LED downlight is first placed in a protective cover, which is then secured to the pole with a slidability structure. This procedure guarantees that the components attach smoothly and securely, allowing for precise positioning and stability. The pole's top panel is designed to be removable, allowing for quick replacement of the LED if necessary, reducing the time and labor costs associated with maintenance.
Infrared Sensor Installation
The infrared sensor is located inside the first module of the pole, positioned at the top to ensure optimal height for proximity detection.
Sustainability Criteria
Woods
Recycled wood waste is used to reduce landfill impact, support conservation, and allow reuse at end-of-life.
Aluminum
Durable, lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and 100% recyclable with minimal maintenance.
LED Lights
Energy-efficient, long-lasting, and low-maintenance. Supports reduced emissions