SEAM is pleased to mark the public opening of Sundersea, the illuminated façade installation at the multi-storey car park in Sunderland designed in collaboration with Tonkin Liu.
The project reimagines a typically utilitarian urban structure as an expressive civic presence. Inspired by the city’s historic relationship with the river and sea, the façade artwork is animated through carefully programmed colour and movement, allowing the building to participate actively in the life of the city.
In addition to lighting conceptualising and technical design, SEAM’s role included final aiming, focusing, and scene programming of the lighting system to ensure the intended spatial rhythm and visual clarity of the façade were realised at full scale. The result is a responsive night-time identity that supports wayfinding, public engagement, and seasonal civic events.
Sundersea demonstrates how thoughtful lighting design can contribute to urban character and collective experience, transforming everyday infrastructure into a point of pride and orientation within the city.
Illuminated Sundersea façade lighting installation in Sunderland at night