Wapping

Brief

Wapping, renowned for its rich history and prime riverside location, has evolved from its maritime roots into one of London’s most sought-after residential and dining destinations. The exclusive Smiths restaurant on Wapping High Street stands out among its many attractions. Featured in OpenTable’s top 100 UK restaurants, it offers fine dining with breathtaking views of Tower Bridge and The Shard. The restaurant’s entryway, including access to the houseboat pier, required a significant safety upgrade, prompting a lighting project to illuminate the steps with an integrated LED handrail solution.

Brief &
Requirements

  • Provide 50 lux average that is compliant with DDA regulations
  • Replace handrails on both sides and the centre of the staircase
  • Improve visual acuity and reduce light pollution to protect nearby riverside habitats
  • Ensure vandal resistance and minimal maintenance requirements

Solution

Acrospire was appointed by Mark Bailey Associates to manage the design, survey, and supply for this project, with installation carried out by a council-appointed contractor. The solution centred around our Rail Light Eco pod, featuring 70-degree lenses in 3000K, which integrated into a new grade 316 stainless steel handrail.

This system enhances visual acuity while reducing light pollution, protecting local riverside habitats and ensuring low glare for users. Its beam spread and orientation flexibility, combined with its vandal resistance (rated >IK10), provide high performance and durability.

We conducted comprehensive site surveys to determine the exact dimensions required. Our experienced engineers used computer simulations to achieve optimal unit placements and visualise the scheme. The RailLight Eco system was installed, providing unparalleled flexibility and performance with innovative heat dissipation technology, ensuring long-term efficiency and minimal maintenance.

Installing the illuminated handrails at Smiths restaurant has significantly enhanced the safety of patrons’ access to the restaurant and houseboat pier. The project demonstrates a commitment to combining safety with aesthetic appeal, ensuring the lighting solution is effective and environmentally friendly.

The new illuminated handrails at Smiths not only enhance the safety and accessibility of the steps but complements the area's aesthetic, adding a new level of modernity to the chic smart eateries of Wapping while providing a much-needed functional upgrade.

Jason Minette, LB Tower Hamlets Lighting Engineer