Saks Holiday Lights Go Green

The lighting installation gives the illusion of snowflakes falling and dancing across the retailer's facade.

by Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 11/30/2006

Since November 20, 50 snow flakes extending 10 stories have shined down on New York’s Fifth Avenue. Thanks to Philips Electronics, the hi-tech light show only consumes as much energy as it takes to run three toast ovens. The electronics manufacturer has revamped the retailer’s annual Snowflake Spectacle with 40,400 newly upgraded LEDs.

The new system, on view since November 20, slashes energy consumption to 2600 watts, a 50 percent reduction. Features include eight-foot and 20-foot high snowflakes, lighting technology in the building's 28 surrounding windows, and an LED light show choreographed to a modern version of “Carol of the Bells." The light show kicks in every 15 minutes, giving the illusion of snowflakes falling and dancing across the retailer's facade.

"Philips’ partnership with Saks provides a unique opportunity to showcase our capabilities in a way that can fit simply within consumers’ lifestyle,” says Govi Rao, vice president and general manager of Philips Lighting North America's Solid State Lighting Business. 

Philips has completed lighting projects for international landmarks including Paris's Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Opera House; Buckingham Palace; and the Sphinx in Giza, Egypt.