Faculty of Architecture and Design STU
Bratislava, SlovakiaIntelligent Lighting for Creative Learning at STU FAD
The Faculty of Architecture and Design at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava has been shaping architects and designers since 1947. As a leading centre for education, research, and creative practice, its learning spaces must support focus, flexibility, and presentation.
In January 2026, four classrooms and one auditorium were upgraded in collaboration with Helvar partner DNA Slovakia. The objective was to improve energy efficiency and wellbeing while modernising lighting control without major intervention in the existing electrical installation.
Smart classroom control
Each classroom is equipped with a Helvar DigiDim 905 Router, modular control panel, and 321 multisensor, enabling intuitive scene selection and automatic optimisation.
Teachers can select manual light levels at 100 percent, 75 percent, 50 percent, 25 percent, or 10 percent. A dedicated projector scene gradually dims luminaires near the board to support presentations.
Automatic mode activates Constant Light at 500 lux with occupancy detection. After 15 minutes without movement, lights switch off. Even when turned off manually, the system automatically returns to automatic mode after 1 minute and 30 seconds, ensuring energy efficiency is maintained.
A hybrid solution in the auditorium
The auditorium required greater flexibility, combining wired DigiDim control with wireless ActiveAhead technology. This hybrid approach delivers the reliability of a wired backbone with the adaptability of intelligent wireless nodes.
Manual settings allow 100 percent, 75 percent, 50 percent, and 30 percent light levels. Separate controls manage lighting only in front of the boards or across the full space.
ActiveAhead Node Advanced and Node Link devices integrate with high-bay multisensors to provide four dedicated scenes:
1. Standard on and off
2. Automatic mode with Constant Light and presence detection
3. Matriculation scene for ceremonial events
4. Reverse matriculation scene
As in the classrooms, manual switch-off reverts to automatic mode after 1 minute and 30 seconds.
Designed for modern education
The result is a future-ready learning environment that adapts instantly to lectures, presentations, and ceremonial events.
Intelligent Constant Light control and presence detection significantly reduce unnecessary energy use, ensuring lighting operates only when and where it is needed. The automatic return to energy-saving mode protects performance even after manual override.
By combining wired DigiDim and wireless ActiveAhead in a seamless hybrid system, STU FAD is able to lower operational costs, reduce long-term maintenance demands, and strengthen its sustainability strategy, all without disruptive infrastructure changes.
Key Facts
Completed: January 2026
Helvar Partner: DNA Slovakia
Bratislava, Slovakia
