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Architectural lighting design is a crucial element of many outdoor areas with impressive architecture. The same can be said for any indoor locations with unique or intriguing features that you want to draw attention to. Below, we will discuss various points of interest using architectural lighting as well as enhancing ambiance with lighting in such spaces.
What is The Purpose of Architectural Lighting?
Generally speaking, the purpose of modern architectural lighting is to draw attention to and enhance the appearance and functionality of the environment surrounding it. This is accomplished by way of architectural lighting techniques specifically developed to achieve such goals, including:
- ELEVATING APPEARANCES – Architectural lighting is primarily used to accent and highlight different features of an area, such as its structure, materials or textures. In so doing, it enhances visual interest in the space and beautifies it using what has already been built.
- CREATING A MOOD – Mood setting with lighting is a common undertaking, and architectural lighting takes that to new heights. Lighting can significantly impact the overall feel of a space by means of colour temperature, lighting level and the distribution of illumination. Architectural lighting takes these aspects into account and uses them along with the shape of the structure to create a more atmospheric location.
Sky panels are another unique way in which you can create an atmosphere with architectural lighting. These panels attach to the ceiling like any other sort of ceiling light but give the illusion of looking out of a window. They usually shine a natural colour of light that mimics daylight, which can make the space feel open and airy.
- FUNCTIONALITY – LED lighting does more than just create general or accent illumination; it can also make it easier to perform tasks. Architectural lighting can be implemented in such a way that it makes productivity areas better lit while beautifying them all the same time.
- CREATING FOCAL POINTS – Using architectural LED lighting, you can direct attention toward certain elements in a room. Such lighting can guide the gaze of anyone in the room to the features that you want to draw attention to in a more natural way.
- MAKING A SPACE SAFER – Creating visual comfort with lighting goes beyond simple appearances. A well-lit space can also feel safer and more comfortable to exist in. Beyond that, it can make navigating the area simpler by illuminating stairs, pathways, exits and other high-traffic areas.
Why You Should Layer Lighting When Designing an Architectural Lighting Scheme
To make the most of interior architectural lighting, it is important to include it as a part of your layered lighting scheme. Layered lighting refers to three main elements: ambient, accent and task types of lighting. Not only does layering lights provide plenty of illumination, it evens the space out visually.
Some benefits of layered lighting include:
- VISUAL COMFORT – When the lights are layered properly, it creates a more even spread of light, which can be easier on the eyes by reducing glare and harsh contrast. Correctly distributing light through a space makes it look more balanced and therefore more pleasing to the eye.
- DIMENSION AND DEPTH – Multiple layers of light can make a space look more dramatic and interesting. Every layer will serve its own purpose while still contributing to the general environment. This, in turn, makes the area appear more dynamic.
- FLEXIBILITY – By having more than one kind of light in a room, you can pick and choose which lights to have on at any given time. This could mean just turning on the accent lighting when you’re relaxing at night and wanting to set a mood or switching on the task lighting when you need to get some work done. Architectural lighting control options can make this possible.
- VERSATILITY – When you layer lighting, you are opening your space up to a more versatile atmosphere. You can work with a wider range of compositions and lighting effects through various architectural lighting fixtures, light sources and intensities.
Why Natural Light Is Important in a Lighting Scheme
No mention of architectural lighting design tips would be complete without also acknowledging the importance of natural light. Good interior lighting will always take such things into account and for good reason:
- INCREASED COMFORT – Natural light can provide excellent illumination all on its own while also appearing quite balanced. It is gentler on the eyes and does not pose the same risk for eye strain that artificial lighting can sometimes bring.
- WELL-BEING AND HEALTH – Natural light is also said to have a positive overall effect on one’s well-being. Having plenty of exposure to natural light promotes the body’s ability to produce vitamin D while also boosting mood and productivity. Furthermore, it is important in the regulation of circadian rhythms. Having a natural light source in the home could generally create a healthier you.
- AESTHETICS – The colour temperature of natural light is perfect for showing off the actual colours, textures, materials, and finishes of various items in a room. Beyond that, it generates a more dynamic looking space with light intensities that change over the course of the day.
- SUSTAINABLE LIGHTING DESIGN – Since natural light requires no use of energy sources to power, this type of light does not harm the environment in any way. Instead, by reducing the need for artificial lights, you can actually contribute to the health of the environment indirectly. Natural lighting deserves a place in your considerations for energy efficient lighting solutions.
How To Balance Lighting Levels When Designing a Lighting Scheme
Architectural lighting trends come and go, but one thing that never changes is the need to create a balanced environment. Below are a few tips for achieving this:
- UNDERSTANDING THE LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SPACE – The first thing you should do is get an idea about what the space will be used for. Figure out the levels of light that you will need based on the types of activities that you plan to participate in and go from there.
- CREATE ZONES – Once you have determined how you intend to use the space, you can create lighting zones based around these findings. For instance, areas where you plan to perform tasks such as reading or working should have brighter task lighting. Areas you intend to relax in at night generally will have more subtle, indirect accent lighting.
- LAYER THE LIGHTING – As mentioned, layering lighting is one of the most important parts of a design scheme. It creates a sense of balance by ensuring everywhere is well lit and by the type of light that it requires. Don’t skip out on this important aspect of balancing lighting levels.
- THINK ABOUT LIGHT DISTRIBUTION – You will need to take note of the way the light gets distributed throughout the room, including where shadows fall. Make up for these shadows by planning to place lamps and other light fixtures in these areas if they exist.
- REMEMBER NATURAL LIGHT – When creating a balanced lighting environment for daytime use, you should take note of how natural light spreads throughout the space. In some places, you will need to compensate for darker areas or shadows, while in others, you may find it is bright enough that adding any extra lights will just make it harsh and too bright.
- TAKE ADVANTAGE OF LIGHTING CONTROLS – Your lighting needs are going to change throughout the day as light dwindles. Having controls for your lights, such as dimmer switches, will allow you to stay in charge of how much light is distributed throughout the space at any given time. This will also make the area feel more flexible and comfortable.
Why It Is Important to Highlight Architectural features in a Lighting Scheme
Architectural lighting products can be used to show off visually interesting features in a space. This can positively impact the overall aesthetics of the space while also indirectly making it more comfortable. By using accent lighting to create focal points, you can make your living space more dynamic and interesting.
Adding architectural lighting around artistic elements in a space can also give it a special visual touch. You can incorporate architectural lighting as a part of your design scheme and interior decor.
Why Lighting Control Is Important in an Architectural Lighting Project
By adding control systems for your lights, you can enjoy greater flexibility in adjusting the light levels depending on the natural light in the area at any given time. You can also adjust the levels based on the activities you are currently undertaking. Timers, dimmers and occupancy sensors are some of the most common ways to do this.
Benefits of lighting controls include:
- ENERGY EFFICIENCY – With a lighting control system in place, you can more effectively manage the light and therefore the energy output of your home. Using controls like timers and occupancy sensors means the light only comes on when it is needed and turns off again after the fact. Since they will only be operating when they need to, little energy is wasted.
- FLEXIBILITY – Your lighting needs will change over the course of the day. As the hours wear on, natural light decreases, meaning you’ll need to increase interior lighting. Controls will allow you to adjust the intensity of the lights as needed while also allowing you to create a calming atmosphere at night.
- HIGHLIGHTING ARCHITECTURAL POINTS – By changing the direction, intensity and even colour temperature of lighting, you can create gorgeous focal points surrounding the architecture in a way that is impossible to ignore.
- SAFETY AND SECURITY – One of the best ways to incorporate safety lighting into a space is through motion detectors. Anytime someone walks past the sensor, it will turn on, allowing them to easily see. This is especially important in hallways and other spaces where traffic can be high.
- OVERALL LIFESPAN – Though LED lights are naturally long lasting, lighting controls can make them even more so. Since you’ll only be using the lights as needed and at the intensity of your choosing, you will be reducing overall usage. This could stretch out the lifespan of your lighting products a measurable amount.
How Does Colour Temperature Play an Important Role in Lighting Design?
Colour temperatures are one of the main considerations you must decide on when designing your lighting. Measured in units Kelvin, colour temperatures exist on a spectrum ranging from 1,000k to 10,000k. Across the spectrum are warm to cool colours, starting from low to high.
The colour temperature that you choose for any given space is important for a variety of reasons:
- MOOD AND ATMOSPHERE – The colour temperature plays a big role in the ambiance of a room. Warm colour temperatures make the space feel more intimate and cosy, while cooler colours give a crisper appearance. Choosing the right colour temperature depending on the use of the space can make or break the end result.
- PERFORMING TASKS – Various activities require different levels of lighting to complete. Since colour temperature helps us better see details, it is important to have cooler colours in areas that require detailed work. Warmer colours can be used in places where attention to detail is not prioritized.
- REGULATING SLEEP AND CIRCADIAN RHYTHMS – Sunlight is largely responsible for helping the body regulate its sleep and wake cycle. Too much artificial light can make that more difficult if the colour isn’t right. Cooler, brighter colors mimic natural light and daytime, while warmer colours can promote relaxation through atmosphere in the evening.
- AESTHETIC APPEAL – Using the right colour temperature can do wonders toward enhancing the appearance of architectural features, artwork and beyond. You can use various temperatures to contrast or complement various features to add drama. Adding a softly coloured light like blue can also dramatically change the look of an object due to the way light plays on light and dark areas of an object.
Why You Should Control Glare When Designing a Lighting Layout
Glare can be an uncomfortable side effect of artificial lighting or even natural lighting. With excess brightness in an area, it can be uncomfortable to the eyes, leading to eye strain and reduced visibility. A reduction in visibility may extend past being uncomfortable and may actually make the area less safe to navigate.
Beyond that, it may negatively impact the aesthetics in a space, taking away from some of the architectural beauty and making it difficult to see. Minimizing glare will overall improve the comfort and safety of the space, while also ensuring it looks its best.
Why Energy Efficiency Is an Important Factor in an Architectural Lighting Scheme
Energy efficient lighting has been an increasingly popular trend in lighting for the last few decades. This has prompted the mass switch to LED bulbs. Since architectural lighting is often on longer than other forms of light, having it be energy efficient can lessen its impact on the environment.
Similarly, lights that use less energy will cost you less to operate. For lights that are on for long periods of time, such as architectural lighting, this is especially important. LED lights output less heat as well, meaning you will save energy on cooling the location. Furthermore, having lights that are energy efficient can extend their lives, which means a reduction in time, effort and money spent on replacing and maintaining them.
How Important is Maintenance When Designing Lighting Layouts?
When you’re designing your lighting, it’s important to take into account a maintenance plan. Regular maintenance ensures that your lights perform at their best consistently. Inspecting, cleaning and servicing any lights that need it will ensure that your lights run their best for the duration of their long life.
It is also a safety concern to have malfunctioning lights, especially if the malfunction comes in the form of faulty wiring or structural integrity. Regular maintenance will give you peace of mind over the safety of the space. A well-maintained light will also be more energy efficient, as dust and debris can obstruct certain elements of the light and make it operate inefficiently.
Architectural Lighting Ideas
The 595×595 LED Sky Panel Ceiling Architectural Lighting Feature is an LED sky panel that gives a room the appearance of natural light. Otherwise known as LED sky ceilings, LED sky ceiling panels mimic the appearance of a blue sky, including the refreshing look of natural light entering the room. With sky ceiling light panels in dark interior rooms, you can bring in some “natural” light to otherwise windowless spaces. This sky light panel measures 571 millimeters by 571 millimeters in size, making it a good choice of skypanel for most spaces.
When you want to highlight various architectural features, this LSP196 24 Watt Black and Gold LED Track Light is the perfect choice. The track light can be positioned any way you like it to shine at a 20-degree beam angle onto whatever you’d like to highlight. It comes in both cool and warm colour temperatures depending on your preference. This sleek, geometric shaped fixture is crafted out of premium aluminium and is finished in black with a contrasting anodized gold trim for a unique effect. It measures 218 millimeters by 102 millimeters by 194 millimeters in size.
Dress up your indoor space with the Halo Square 1 Watt Recessed LED Wall Light. This wall light is ultra-modern with its sleek square shape and brushed aluminium exterior. Around the border is an opal acrylic diffuser that softens the 70 lumens of 3200k warm white light. Overall, the fixture is perfect for many locations within a room and measures 48 millimeters by 48 millimeters and can be recessed into concrete and drywall constructions alike. Multiples of these fixtures are perfect for highlighting a flight of stairs.
Enhance the aesthetics of your space with the LWA223 6 Watt Round Decorative Interior LED Wall Light. This artistic ring light mounts to the wall and shines light back onto the wall with a warm halo glow. It generates 600 lumens of 3000k warm white light that shines through the acrylic diffuser. The unique product is fabricated out of high quality aluminium and measures an overall size of 139 millimeters by 78 millimeters.
The LWA304 6 Watt Round Decorative LED Wall Light has a unique button shape and a sleek body that makes it a modern addition to any room. This light, available in white or black finishes, shines its 600 lumens of 3000k warm white light back onto the wall behind it. It is built to last out of premium aluminium with an equally as durable acrylic diffuser.
Control the glare in your architectural lighting with the LDC726 18 Watt 1800 Lumen Recessed Anti Glare LED Downlight. This unique recessed downlight avoids uncomfortable glare thanks to the deeply placed bulb. The result is a pool of light that shines below the fixture at 1800 lumens, making it extra bright. The 3000k warm white colour temperature further softens the illumination and makes it easier on the eyes. The light measures 98 millimeters by 98 millimeters and is durably designed out of premium aluminium.
Create an abundance of light in any room without glare using the LBL714 30 Watt Surface Mounted Anti Glare LED Downlight. The bar light features 10 bulbs, all situated within a reflector that prevents glare for a smooth, even spread of light. The bulbs work together to output a total of 1200 lumens of 3000k warm white light well suited for task and ambient lighting alike. The light emitted shines at a 24-degree angle from the aluminium housing measuring 383 millimeters by 43 millimeters by 66 millimeters.
