A Story of Light and Emotion
There’s a special kind of magic in witnessing a transformation. It’s the feeling of seeing something familiar and then, through a careful, intentional process, watching it become something new, something better. That’s the emotion I experienced when I saw the “before” and “after” of Piazza Cameroni in Treviglio.
The before was a square I knew well, a central hub in the city. It had its own charm, but like many public spaces, its lighting was purely functional, almost an afterthought. The existing lighting did little to highlight the architectural beauty or create a sense of welcome and safety. The square felt flat and lacked character after dusk.
In order to respect the square’s existing elements—the market’s facade, the mill, and the artistic columns at the entrance—we re-engineered the lighting approach. The goal was to enhance these features while maintaining a glare-free environment and complying with all current Lombardy regional standards.
The facade, in particular, now highlights the rhythm of its pilasters, and the market’s sign is both legible and distinct. Upon special request, this sign was illuminated with RGBW lighting fixtures to correspond with scheduled city events.
The entrance has been revitalized with new, brighter illumination. We removed the outdated LED strips that had been glaringly lighting the mill from below with stark contrast. Additionally, the decorative columns were topped with flat metal sheets to block upward light spillage and fitted with drainage holes. This modification was crucial to prevent the light fixtures from being submerged during rain, a problem that had previously led to frequent damage and costly replacements.
The after was an emotional and deeply satisfying experience. I had the privilege of working with the Municipality of Treviglio on the lighting redesign of this space. It was a unique collaboration marked by trust and a shared vision. The city’s openness to a complete re-imagining of the space, giving proper importance to the role of lighting, was truly remarkable. They understood that light is not just for seeing; it’s for feeling. It can define a mood, direct attention, and influence how people interact with their surroundings.
Witnessing the final phase of the installation of the new lighting fixtures was the most exciting part. Each luminaire was carefully placed according to my design, turning my plans into a tangible reality. The moment the lights were turned on and I saw how they sculpted the space, how they made the square inviting and vibrant, was a powerful, moving experience. The new lighting highlights architectural details, creates different zones of use, and makes the square feel more alive and welcoming.
This project isn’t just about new lights; it’s about the city’s commitment to its citizens. By investing in quality lighting design, the Municipality of Treviglio is showing that it values how its residents live and experience their public spaces. It’s a testament to the fact that when a city embraces innovation and a holistic approach to urban design, the results are not only beautiful but also deeply impactful, creating a safer, more vibrant community.
