Caja Mágica smart lighting upgrade
Smart lighting technology takes Madrid’s premier sports complex into the next era of entertainment
In the heart of Madrid, on the banks of the River Manzanares, stands the Caja Mágica, one of Europe’s most iconic and versatile sports complexes. Designed by Dominique Perrault, this venue is renowned for its iconic architecture, retractable roofs and capacity to host top-tier sporting competitions and large-scale cultural events.
As technical requirements for broadcasts, competitions, and shows have evolved over time, the facility needed to upgrade its lighting system. The refurbishment project, focusing on the three indoor courts, represented a significant step forward, integrating advanced LED technology and smart control systems to enhance the experience for players and spectators alike.
Flexible lighting for a multi-purpose sports venue
Designed for versatility, the Caja Mágica hosts elite tennis tournaments alongside other sports like padel and large-scale events. The three indoor courts host the majority of these high-level competitions, demanding a highly precise and adaptable lighting system.
This multi-sport environment adds technical complexity. Each discipline requires specific light levels, uniformity, glare control, and colour rendering. Furthermore, there is a growing demand for immersive audiovisual shows in which the lighting plays a leading role.
The objective was clear:
- improve the quality of the lighting to ensure optimal conditions for player performance;
- enhance visual comfort for spectators, both at the venue and during television broadcasts;
- adapt to diverse events with a highly flexible, configurable solution;
- create dynamic experiences by integrating spectacular, music-synchronised lighting.
This comprehensive approach treats lighting not merely as a technical necessity, but as a defining element of the venue’s identity. Achieving this requires a people-centred vision, perfectly aligning with Schréder's philosophy of using light to enhance performance, comfort, and experience across diverse spaces.
An advanced technological solution
To achieve these objectives, a lighting system was proposed, featuring:
Customer
Application(s)
These high-performance LED floodlights were selected for their photometric accuracy precision, energy efficiency and ability to provide uniform, high-quality lighting across large sports venues.
By combining both product ranges, the system seamlessly balances the diverse venue requirements, from precision functional lighting for professional sporting activities to tailored ambiance lighting for specific areas.
Smart control: the key role of the DMX system
One of the project's most innovative elements is the DMX control system, which enables dynamic, pre-programmed lighting scenarios. This advanced system enables the venue to:
- create pre-programmed scenes tailored to each type of event;
- adjust the lighting in real time according to the situation;
- synchronise the lighting with the music to create truly immersive shows;
- transform the venue in a matter of seconds, switching from a sports setting to an entertainment space.
With this approach, the lighting plays a key role, building audience excitement and adding value to every event.
Improved sporting performance
The quality of lighting is a key factor in athletic performance. In fast-paced sports such as tennis, where ball speed and visual precision are critical, uniform, glare-free lighting is essential. The new sports lighting system guarantees:
- optimal light levels for professional competitions;
- high uniformity, eliminating shadows and dark zones on the courts;
- excellent colour rendering to enhance the players’ perception of the ball and their surroundings;
- minimal glare to help players maintain concentration.
Together, these improvements create an environment in which athletes can perform at their very best.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
The new lighting also delivers a major leap forward in sustainability. The LED technology used offers:
- a substantial reduction in energy consumption;
- a longer lifespan for the floodlights;
- lower maintenance requirements;
- a reduced carbon footprint for the venue.
These benefits not only minimise operating costs but also support a more responsible, sustainable management model for the venue.
A venue ready for the future
Since it opened, the Caja Mágica has hosted a prestigious array of international events, firmly establishing itself as a premier venue in both the sporting and cultural spheres.
This refurbishment sees the complex take another step into the future by incorporating solutions that meet current needs and anticipate future industry trends through:
- the digitalisation of lighting;
- seamless integration with audiovisual systems;
- the creation of immersive experiences for the audience;
- total flexibility to host new event formats.
Lighting beyond functionality
This project demonstrates how lighting goes beyond its basic function to become a strategic design element. It is no longer just about illuminating a space; it is about creating memorable experiences, elevating athletic performance and fostering deep connections with the audience.
The solution implemented at the Caja Mágica embodies this philosophy, paving the way for a new approach to lighting that is smarter, more sustainable and entirely focused on people.
