On one hand, the Juniper MULTIVERSE System shares many of the hallmark traits of form and function associated with traditional track lighting. But to compare the Connecticut-based company’s architectural technology to its outdated and often maligned predecessor would be doing the low-voltage power distribution system a disservice, as Juniper’s modular and magnetic system lays out possibilities reaching beyond mere illumination, all with a much more aesthetically pleasing package.
Speaking via video chat from the company’s central Connecticut headquarters and showroom housed within a historic mill – Juniper founder Shant Madjarian remotely outlined the MULTIVERSE System’s key components and features, piece by piece to allow for a better grasp of the what, why, and how. Complemented by a sample pack containing several MULTIVERSE track segments and connectors delivered ahead of our chat, Madjarian delved into the inspiration and impetus in designing their innovative approach to a well established lighting solution. Led Recessed Spotlights
A sample pack of Juniper’s MULTIVERSE System track lighting components, including a pair of ribbon mounted spotlight modules. Ribbon segments secure onto screw mounted clips across nearly any interior surface, with lighting components securing into place magnetically. \\\ Photo: Gregory Han
Madjarian cites a concept using tape enhanced with low profile circuitry to deliver power as the inspiration behind the development of MULTIVERSE. The barely-there design was later refined by Madjarian and the Juniper team into a modular system of ribbons measuring a mere 7mm in height with immediate obvious applicability within residential and commercial spaces.
“Looking at [MULTIVERSE] you would not know it’s lighting,” says Madjarian about Juniper’s power delivery system, an impression further emphasized by the company’s catalog of pre-finished colors and materials that inspire possibilities rather than serving mere practicalities.
Ribbons are available in numerous color and material finishes, but can also be painted once installed onto surfaces to further blend into walls.
One intriguing option made possible by the modular and low profile design is the option to run ribbons vertically to add task and ambient ribbon lighting near workspaces. A new linear ambient ribbon element shown above tracks the same 1/4″ thickness for a seamless presence across walls.
Piecing together like architectural playthings, the MULTIVERSE ribbons are designed to be easily and quickly connected at lengths up to 150 linear feet. Powered from a single driver, connected lights are dimmable and can also be operated separately or in harmony using one of two included circuits.
The MULTIVERSE System’s ribbons range from 2-feet, 4-feet, and 6-feet length. Regardless of their length, each piece conceals Juniper’s proprietary 24V high-efficiency dual circuitry. Madjarian emphasizes how the design offers clients the option to discreetly recede the lighting system into an interior space or utilize them more expressively to bring attention to their presence as a bold graphic element.
Traditionally track lighting’s linear path was limited to an em-dash’s length. The MULTIVERSE system’s catalog of curving and connecting components opens the possibility to create a graphical element winding across varying topography, corners, and changing planes for interesting effect.
The MULTIVERSE System’s tracks measure only 1/4-inch thick, a ribbon-like profile that houses 24V high -efficiency dual circuitry. Components connect using a magnetic system allowing up to 15 miniature spot modules that are in turn easily adjusted along the track length and also their angled aim.
An optional suspension ribbon track brings illumination closer to nearby surfaces or aimed away as an ambient light source.
The MULTIVERSE System isn’t limited to wall mounted tracks, but also offers the option to use luminaire adaptors for hanging pendants, stems, and a selection of Juniper’s THIN System fixtures. Juniper recently released new cylinders with reeded glass fittings and 500, 1,000, and 1,500 lumens outputs.
Magnetic adaptors are a key component the Juniper system’s adaptability, subtracting the necessity to run internal wiring when adding additional compatible spots. Which brings up perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the Juniper MULTIVERSE System’s future: “We’re investigating partnering with select manufacturers to develop add-on components for the MULTIVERSE,” explains Madjarian. “For example, small audio speakers, security monitoring devices, and other technologies that can be liberated from wall outlets and added where most needed, wanted.”
While Juniper has yet to announce such partnerships, they believe a year from now the MULTIVERSE System will live up to its moniker and expand in scope well beyond lighting and into an entire smart home platform.
Designed as a complementing component, monopoint fixtures can be mounted with or without 5” cover plates to deliver light in support of the ribbon system.
MULTIVERSE architectural track heads feature 1,000-lumen and 1,500-lumen outputs and start at $250 each.
“Juniper is a tech-driven lighting company, and although we like vintage track lighting,” says Madjarian. “We set out to design track lighting that clients want to install rather than need to install.” The Juniper MULTIVERSE System is currently aimed at the trade segment and still requires professional electrician installation, but the company hints of the development of direct-to-consumer products down the line, including the development of a Juniper app intended to integrate MULTIVERSE’s linear luminosity to operate in seamless coordination with other modular additions riding the line of the company’s low-voltage LED power distribution system.
For more information about the MULTIVERSE System visit juniper-design.com or if you happen to be in New York City, appointments can be made at the brand’s SoHo showroom at 1 Crosby Street.
Gregory Han is a Senior Editor at Design Milk. A Los Angeles native with a profound love and curiosity for design, hiking, tide pools, and road trips, a selection of his adventures and musings can be found at gregoryhan.com.
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