Navigating Light: The Oculus Installation at Seaport Science Center

Spanning more than nine meters in both height and width, the Oculus dominates the lobby's interior and casts a guiding light through the glass façade for those passing by. 

 

Reflecting the city's maritime legacy, the Oculus mirrors the function of a lighthouse, while its name evokes the eye-shaped beam of light reaching out to sea.

 

 

"The initial idea was to create design using strong local elements that reflect the history, culture, and rich heritage of Boston. This dynamically lit glass feature takes inspiration from the lighthouse, a pivotal navigational aid for sailors. The ocean's glint is echoed in the glass craftsmanship, completed with organic bubbles," explains Stefan Mihailovic, the Lasvit in-house designer behind the installation. 

 

 

Ancient Craftsmanship Meets Cutting-edge Engineering

 

Composed of fused glass—a time-honored technique revived with contemporary artistry—the installation consists of 468 glass rectangles. Laid out flat, they would form a 'glass carpet' covering 550 square feet. Each piece is set within independently illuminated frames, enabling the Oculus to shine with an ever-changing spectrum of colors and animations. 

 

 

Integration of delicate aesthetics with dynamic lighting was achieved through cutting-edge electrical engineering, ensuring the Oculus is not just a visual landmark but also an evolving sensory experience. 

 

Bringing Shine to Boston

 

In collaboration with CBT Boston architects, Lasvit has once again merged craftsmanship with locality. This partnership, which previously illuminated 28 State Street (see the picture below), continues to redefine Boston's skyline.  

 

 

As visitors walk into the spaces of BioMed Realty's offices and labs, they are accompanied by the Oculus's glow, a constant reminder of the city's vibrant pulse and Lasvit's commitment to bringing spaces to life through light.