insight to light
Not Your Ordinary String Lights: Catenary Lighting Systems
An interview with Ryland Massey, Engineering & Product Development Manger, Structura
What are catenary lighting systems, and why have they become so popular?
Catenary lighting systems use horizontal cables to suspend light fixtures, offering a creative and flexible alternative to traditional pole-mounted lighting. This approach allows designers to illuminate spaces without visual clutter, creating clean, open environments while still delivering precise lighting where it’s needed. Their growing popularity stems from their aesthetic appeal, versatility, and ability to enhance both public and private spaces, from urban plazas to cozy patios.
I saw some string lights at our favorite restaurant patio, and they didn’t have large poles. Why do you recommend large diameter poles?
While smaller poles or anchors may work for temporary or decorative installations, long-term catenary systems require robust engineering. We recommend larger-diameter poles to ensure structural integrity, especially in areas exposed to wind, weather, or heavy use. Our systems are designed to withstand extreme conditions and provide lasting performance so your space remains safe and functional for years to come.
What fixtures can be used on catenary systems?
Catenary systems are highly adaptable and can support a wide range of fixture types. These include:
- String lights for ambiance and decorative appeal
- Architectural luminaires for functional and aesthetic lighting
- Spotlights or projectors for focused illumination
- Custom-designed rings or pendants for dramatic visual impact
The key is ensuring the fixture is compatible with the cable system’s load capacity and tension requirements. We work closely with clients to select or design fixtures that not only meet performance goals but also integrate seamlessly with the structural vision of the space.
How does Structura distinguish its catenary system in the market?
Structura offers a fully integrated catenary lighting solution, custom-designed and engineered for seamless installation and long-term reliability. We provide everything: poles, cables, fixtures, all manufactured in Lenexa, Kansas, along with expert support. Our team conducts early planning to see if your project is a good fit, provides engineering documents to help with foundations or building attachments, and offers hands-on guidance throughout the process. We have worked on hundreds of projects across the U.S. and Canada, from simple string lights to huge 18-foot rings. We bring experience, creativity, and a team that’s ready to help from start to finish.
Ready to bring your catenary lighting vision to life? Contact Mercer Zimmerman today for assistance!
on view
Ozark Center Turnaround Ranch, Joplin, MO
Ozark Center Turnaround Ranch, located just west of Joplin, Missouri, is a 36-bed residential treatment facility dedicated to supporting adolescents ages 13-18 who are experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges. Set on a 20-acre campus, the Ranch offers a trauma-informed environment with six residential cottages, a school, a gymnasium, and outdoor recreational area.
Inside the patient rooms, the atmosphere is enhanced by Visa Lighting’s CM1988-W Symmetry ceiling fixture, paired with the CB1800 GIG in both blue and white for added visual comfort. In the common area, the HE Williams 75S Square Lens Narrow Strip fixtures are integrated into the slotted wooden ceiling to provide both warmth and functionality.
The following manufacturers—Kenall, Metalux, Visa Lighting, and HE Williams—delivered high-performance lighting solutions that support the Ranch’s mission of creating a safe, healing environment for its residents.
The Players:
Architect: CGA Architects
Engineer: Conway-Duncan
Electrical Contractor: Norbury Electric
General Contractor: Marion Company Construction Services Group
fact-ology
The A: 9
The Q: How many service technicians does Mercer Zimmerman have?
Mercer Zimmerman provides comprehensive and user-friendly lighting controls solutions across all applications, specialized in start-up, programming, onsite training, and ongoing service. Our dedicated team of technicians becomes a part of your team, striving to provide value through trust, inspiration, and service. Our lighting controls service plan makes it easy for facility managers and owners to protect their investment after installation, offering pre-packaged and customized plans with proactive onsite diagnostics, configuration changes, training, software updates, and routine maintenance.
Contact us today to learn how we can enhance your lighting controls system!
lighten up
Favorite Summertime Activities Revealed
Adam Vander Helm | Modus Engineering | Electrical Engineer
Des Moines, Iowa
“Golfing, going to the farmers market, and getting fresh roadside sweet corn.”
Samira Kiger | Mercer Zimmerman | Director of Sales & Marketing
Overland Park, KS
“Pool days with my three kids and husband, Starlight shows (15+ years strong!), and giving back to our community while the kids are off for the summer.”