In a masterful fusion of history and innovation, the Home House Private Member’s Club in London has been awarded the 2025 Casambi Project of the Year. The project, led by Jamie Weakner of Minlec in collaboration with lighting designer Victoria Jerram, Chandelier specialist Madson Black, interior designer Russell Sage, and the Home House engineering team, exemplifies how cutting-edge wireless lighting control can breathe new life into a 250-year-old landmark – without disturbing a single wall.
Situated at 20 Portman Square, the Grade I listed Georgian townhouse is one of London’s most historic members’ clubs, dating back to 1773. Its recent refurbishment set out to enhance atmosphere and comfort while safeguarding the building’s heritage. The lighting design plays a crucial role in this transformation, creating spaces that shift naturally from bright breakfast settings to relaxed afternoon lounges and elegant evening scenes.
The challenge was formidable. With original wiring in place for over four decades and ornate finishes that could not be touched, traditional rewiring was out of the question. Working within these constraints, Minlec’s team integrated 38 Casambi nodes, connecting chandeliers, wall lights, joinery, and even antique table lamps – entirely wirelessly. The result is a lighting environment that feels effortless and authentic to its surroundings.
“This project shows remarkable sensitivity in blending historical preservation with modern technology,” noted one of the Casambi Awards judges. “By retaining existing wiring and minimising invasive work, the team achieved true sustainability – preserving the building’s past while introducing intelligent, adaptable lighting for the future.”
Lighting designer Victoria Jerram developed a concept rooted in drama, elegance, and respect for history. Working with Madson Black on the chandeliers and Minlec on controls, her vision was to highlight the grandeur of the interiors while giving staff and members the flexibility to adapt the mood of each space. The refurbished chandeliers now dim gracefully, bespoke joinery glows with warmth, and antique lamps respond to touch or automation , all controlled seamlessly through the Casambi App.
Beyond aesthetics, the system’s seasonal time-based scenes, remote support, and emergency lighting integration showcase the versatility and intelligence of Casambi’s wireless technology. One judge praised the project’s technical precision:
“Where history meets technology and no one sees the seam, an 18th-century palace now breathing intelligent light without touching a single wall.”
Another highlighted the project’s educational value:
“Casambi is a natural choice for buildings of this age, but I was impressed to see how well it performed through thick walls. The chandeliers look incredible, proof that wireless control and heritage elegance can coexist beautifully.”
The project’s success has already led to follow-on works within the club, extending Casambi control to additional heritage features.
Ultimately, Home House Private Member’s Club stands as a testament to the power of subtlety and respect in design – a project that proves modern control and timeless architecture can illuminate each other in perfect harmony.
