Chroma Designs Transforms UConn Spin Studio with Immersive Lighting

Storrs, Connecticut — Chroma Designs has completed a custom LED lighting installation at the University of Connecticut Student Recreation Center’s Spin Cycle Studio, delivering a permanent, performance-driven system designed to enhance one of the facility’s fastest-growing group fitness programs.

The Spin Cycle Studio, located within the recently constructed recreation center, previously relied on recessed fluorescent lighting for general illumination. While sufficient for daily use, it did not support the immersive environment required for high-energy cycling classes. Staff regularly supplemented the space with temporary DJ lighting on tripods for themed events such as Halloween rides and glow-party spin classes.

To eliminate temporary setups, Chroma Designs developed a permanent lighting system tailored specifically for indoor cycling, creating a flexible environment that supports both standard programming and immersive, high-intensity themed classes. The system enhances instructor-led pacing, reinforces workout intensity, and improves participant engagement through programmable lighting scenes that shift seamlessly between class segments such as warm-up, climb, sprint, and cooldown.

The installation is built entirely on LED technology, incorporating equipment from Chauvet Professional, ETC, and ENTTEC to balance performance lighting, power distribution, and control flexibility within an architectural environment. Fixtures were selected for high output, smooth dimming, and wide color-mixing capability to support both fitness use and themed events. The system is designed for rapid scene recall and consistent daily operation in a high-use recreational setting. A key feature of the installation is its integration with the facility’s existing Extron Control System infrastructure, used throughout the recreation center for AV routing and room control. This allows lighting to operate within the same interface as audio and video systems, simplifying operation for staff and maintaining consistency across building systems.

The project was designed and delivered by a multidisciplinary team led by Chroma Designs. Lighting design, system design, and programming were completed by Adam Lobelson. Electrical installation was performed by Joe Landry and Bob Wylie, with entertainment lighting installation and commissioning support provided by Evan Brenner and Jakob Kelsey. Integration of the lighting control system with the facility’s Extron control infrastructure was completed by Jim Wheeler.

About Chroma Designs

Chroma Designs is an entertainment lighting design firm specializing in stage, performance, and immersive environments. Inspired by the creativity of live events and theatrical productions, the company designs lighting solutions for educational, recreational, commercial, and public spaces. Chroma Designs also provides lighting equipment sales, rentals, production support, and integration services, delivering everything from live event systems to permanent installations. By combining creative vision with technical expertise, the company transforms ordinary environments into engaging, memorable experiences.