Galaxy Drop — Custom Long-Drop Crystal Chandelier for Stairwell

What is the Galaxy Drop and where is it specified?

At XHLWX (led-project-light.com), a Custom Indoor LED Lighting Manufacturer based in China, we engineer architectural statements, and the Galaxy Drop series is our premier offering for spaces that demand vertical grandeur. This vertical long-drop crystal chandelier is specifically engineered for multi-storey stairwell voids, hotel atriums, and other double or triple-height commercial spaces. Each high-clarity K9 crystal raindrop houses a micro LED node, individually wired and suspended from a polished ceiling canopy. The result is a breathtaking curtain of light, a sculptural element that can span over 8 meters in height, transforming a simple transitional space into a memorable destination. The Galaxy Drop is specified by architects and lighting designers for luxury hospitality, corporate headquarters, and high-end residential projects where a unique, site-specific luminaire is required to serve as the central design feature.

Photometric and electrical specification

The Galaxy Drop is a fully bespoke system. The following specifications represent a typical configuration and can be adjusted to meet precise project requirements. We provide full IES and LDT photometric files for simulation in software like DIALux evo.

Parameter	Specification	Standard	Notes
Optics
Correlated Colour Temp (CCT)	2200K / 2700K / 3000K	As per project	Tunable white (2200-5000K) available via DALI DT8.
Colour Rendering Index (CRI)	Ra > 95	ANSI/IES TM-30-18	Essential for rendering skin tones and interior finishes accurately.
TM-30 Fidelity/Gamut (Rf/Rg)	Rf ≈ 92, Rg ≈ 101	IES TM-30-18	High fidelity with slightly saturated reds for vibrant, rich light.
Unified Glare Rating (UGR)	N/A	EN 12464-1	Not applicable for a decorative, multi-point source luminaire.
Beam Angle	120° per node	N/A	Creates a soft, diffuse ambient light field rather than a focused beam.
Electrical
System Wattage	Custom (e.g. 150-1000W+)	Project-specific	Total power depends on crystal count and node wattage (1.5W to 5W per node).
Luminous Efficacy	85-100 lm/W	As per driver/chip	Varies with CCT, CRI, and driver selection.
Driver Brand	Tridonic / Mean Well / Osram	CE / UL Listed	Remote drivers specified for ease of maintenance and thermal management.
Components & Housing
LED Chip Brand	Bridgelux / Samsung / Osram	LM-80 Certified	Selected for high colour fidelity and a 50,000-hour L70 lifespan.
IP Rating	IP20	IEC 60529	For indoor use in dry locations only.
Housing Material	K9 Crystal, Stainless Steel	-	Top canopy is typically polished chrome stainless steel; other finishes available.
Compliance
Certifications	CE, RoHS, UL (optional)	ISO9001:2015 mfg.	UL certification is pursued on a project-by-project basis for US market.

Which spaces is it designed for?

The Galaxy Drop is conceived for large-volume interior spaces where it can be appreciated from multiple vantage points. Its primary application is creating a powerful focal point that unifies different floors of a building. Specifiers in the US and Europe select this fixture for:

• Hotel Lobbies & Atriums: To create an unforgettable first impression and a luxurious sense of arrival.
• Grand Stairwells: Both spiral and switchback staircases in luxury residences, flagship retail stores, and corporate offices.
• Event Spaces & Ballrooms: As a central feature that can be dimmed or programmed with dynamic effects to suit different moods.
• Cruise Ship Foyers: Providing a stable, secure, and visually stunning centerpiece in a dynamic environment.

How does the Galaxy Drop enhance the architectural experience of a double-height lobby?

In a double-height lobby, the Galaxy Drop serves as more than just a light source; it is a piece of kinetic sculpture. Its immense verticality draws the eye upward, accentuating the scale of the architecture. The thousands of points of light within the K9 crystals create a gentle, shimmering ambiance that static downlights cannot replicate. From the ground floor, it provides a sense of wonder, while from the mezzanine level, it offers a different perspective, revealing the intricate patterns of the crystal field. It fills the void, connects floors, and provides a warm, welcoming illumination of around 150-300 lux, perfect for ambient lighting.

What are the considerations for specifying a custom chandelier for a spiral staircase?

For a spiral staircase, the chandelier's form must complement the helical flow of the architecture. With the Galaxy Drop, we customise the suspension points and drop lengths of each crystal to create a swirling vortex of light that mirrors the staircase's geometry. Our design process involves creating a full 3D model of the stairwell and chandelier, allowing the specifier to review sightlines from every angle. We ensure the fixture's diameter and drop pattern provide clearance and an optimal visual experience, whether ascending or descending the stairs. The total weight, often exceeding 500 kg, requires careful coordination with structural engineers from day one.

Can this fixture be integrated into a building's central control system?

Yes, seamless integration is a core design principle. For sophisticated commercial projects in the EU and US, the Galaxy Drop is most often specified with DALI-2 drivers. This allows for individual addressing or grouping of the LED nodes for scene-setting, scheduled dimming, and energy-use reporting back to a central Building Management System (BMS). For dynamic effects and colour shows, we integrate DMX512 controllers. For simpler installations or high-end residential projects, we also provide reliable 0-10V, TRIAC (mains dim), and wireless Casambi control options, ensuring compatibility with nearly any control ecosystem.

Installation, control and compliance (DALI-2 / Casambi / 0-10V, CE / RoHS / ErP)

We provide comprehensive support for installation and commissioning. Each chandelier is shipped with detailed structural drawings for the ceiling plate, a clear wiring diagram, and a map for hanging each numbered crystal strand. We strongly recommend that a certified structural engineer verifies the load-bearing capacity of the ceiling prior to installation.

Control system compatibility is paramount for modern buildings. The Galaxy Drop is compatible with:

• DALI-2 / DALI DT8: For granular control, energy monitoring, and tunable white functionality.
• DMX512: For dynamic, theatrical effects in hospitality and event spaces.
• 0-10V / 1-10V: A robust and common analogue dimming standard.
• Casambi: Wireless Bluetooth mesh control for retrofit-friendly projects.

All components are compliant with CE (for EU market safety), RoHS (hazardous substances), and our drivers meet ErP ecodesign requirements. UL listing for the North American market is available as a project-specific service.

Customisation, MOQ and lead time

As a bespoke luminaire, every Galaxy Drop is unique. Our design process is collaborative, starting with your architectural drawings and creative vision. Customisation options are virtually limitless:

• Dimensions: Any diameter and drop height (e.g., from Ø800mm x H3000mm to Ø3000mm x H15000mm).
• Form: Cylindrical, conical, rectangular, or a fully freeform shape to match atriums or stairwells.
• Crystal: K9 crystal raindrops are standard, but other shapes, sizes, and grades are available.
• Canopy: Polished chrome, brushed nickel, gold, matte black, or any RAL colour.

Our Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) is 1 set. The typical lead time, from design sign-off to delivery, ranges from 45 to 90 days, depending on the scale and complexity of the design. This timeline includes concept sketching, 3D rendering for approval, DIALux simulation, and meticulous fabrication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the typical weight and what structural support is needed?

A: The weight is entirely custom, ranging from 150 kg for smaller designs to over 800 kg for large atrium pieces. A structural engineer must validate the ceiling's load capacity. We provide detailed drawings and total weight calculations for your engineer to specify the required steel reinforcement or blocking, ensuring a safe and permanent installation.

Q: How are the individual LED nodes maintained or replaced?

A: Serviceability is designed-in. The fixture uses remote drivers located in an accessible service area for easy maintenance. The individual LED nodes boast a 50,000-hour L70 lifespan, minimizing the need for replacement. Should a node fail, it can be individually replaced. Access is typically planned via scaffolding or a specialized lift during the design phase.

Q: Can you create dynamic lighting effects with the Galaxy Drop?

A: Absolutely. When specified with DMX or addressable DALI drivers, the chandelier can perform stunning dynamic scenes. We can program effects like a slow, shimmering sparkle, a gentle cascading 'waterfall' of light, or dramatic fades. These sequences can be triggered by a building control system to mark a time of day or a special event.

Q: What is the process for getting a quotation for a custom design?

A: The process begins when you send us your project requirements, such as architectural drawings (DWG or PDF), desired dimensions, and inspirational images. Our team will respond with initial concept sketches and a budgetary estimate within 3-5 business days. Once you approve the direction, we proceed to detailed 3D renderings and a formal, itemized quotation.

Request IES files and a quotation

At XHLWX (led-project-light.com), a Custom Indoor LED Lighting Manufacturer based in China, our team is ready to help you realise your architectural vision. We provide comprehensive support to specifiers, designers, and contractors across the EU, US, and Middle East. Contact us today to discuss your project, request project-specific IES and LDT photometric files for your DIALux simulations, or receive a detailed quotation for a custom Galaxy Drop chandelier. Let us help you create an icon for your space.