The existing Channel 5 News desk required a complete transformation. The brief called for a fully illuminated desk that would not only improve on the existing design aesthetically but also deliver the durability and reliability needed for the demands of a busy live news environment. With the desk expected to be moved approximately 260 times a year, every element of the design had to be carefully considered, from the materials and construction through to the LED and overall finish.

While the deadline may have been presented as a light-hearted challenge, the expectations behind the project were anything but. The finished desk needed to look impressive on camera, provide consistent illumination, withstand regular handling and movement, and maintain its appearance and performance over time.

To achieve the desired lighting effect, we integrated RGBW LED lighting within bespoke acrylic light boxes, creating a fully illuminated finish that was incorporated directly into the desk design. The LEDs were installed within the acrylic sections to provide an even, consistent spread of light, enhancing the overall appearance without compromising the clean lines of the desk. Dedicated LED drivers were also incorporated into the installation, providing a reliable and practical lighting solution suited to the demands of a frequently used broadcast environment.

The result was a carefully engineered upgrade that brought together visual impact, functionality and durability. Every detail was designed with the realities of a live television studio in mind, ensuring the desk was not simply an improvement in appearance, but a robust, dependable feature ready for repeated use.