Architectural Lighting

Architectural lighting enhances certain architectural features in order to highlight the aesthetic of the building. Architectural lighting is the intersection of Art (architecture) and Technology (lighting). It serves as the illumination for building design and function and focuses on the exterior and interior aesthetic and character of the building.

"Light is the first element of design, without it there is no color, form or texture."

Architectural lighting accentuates the building's spatial and visual experience. Lighting can influence a person’s mood, ambiance, and spatial awareness to embellish certain architectural features, create excitement, and provide intimacy. The best way to illuminate a space is by utilizing different types of fixtures, each fulfilling a distinct function. The type of light fixtures and their intensity is best determined based on the function, size, and design style of the space.

Lighting in Architecture is generally evaluated in terms of a Layered Lighting System. Layered lighting involves a combination usage of multiple lighting types to create a well-lit and balanced illuminated space. There are three basic types of lighting—ambient, task, and accent. Layered throughout a space, these lighting fixtures work together to achieve a rich and adaptive lighting design.

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Ambient Light

Ambient lighting provides general illumination of the room and is meant to create a uniform and homogenous lighting level. This is the first layer of lighting and sets the mood and tone of a space. It is typically soft and diffuse, and often dimmable to accommodate day and night time settings.

Ambient lighting is especially important in hallways and stairs for optimal visibility and orientation. It also is useful in kitchens or living halls, where these fixtures provide a consistent and soothing level of lighting.

There are several types of ambient lighting: • Ceiling-mounted or recessed fixtures that direct light downwards • Wall sconces and floor lamps, which wash the walls and/or ceiling with light • Cove lighting, floor lamps, and pendants that bounce light off ceilings and walls

Although it provides general illumination, ambient light is not best suited for task work or showcasing specific elements in a space, which are the functions of the following two types of lighting.

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Task Lighting

This direct, intense illumination is ideal for detailed task work such as reading and writing at a workstation and food preparation. It is brighter than ambient lighting and is focused on the specific area where the task is performed. Task lighting is usually glare-free and strong enough to prevent eyestrain.

Examples of task lighting include: • Recessed and track lighting

• Bathroom vanity lights • Pendants

• Floor, desk, and table lamps • Under-cabinet lighting Task lighting provides better illumination in the kitchen, where under-cabinet lighting or pendants increases the visibility on countertops and food preparation areas. In living rooms and bedrooms, table and floor lamps provide task lighting and can reinforce the desired design style. Sconces, vanity bars, and pendant lights can be used in bathrooms to improve visibility, particularly near mirrors.

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Accent Lighting

Accent lights are typically three times brighter than ambient lights as they are intended to highlight a specific area or object. Accent lighting brings attention to an element, such as artwork, furnishings, or architectural details, transforming it into a focal point. Adjustable fittings are preferred for accent lighting, as they allow precision focusing on small areas or objects.

Common accent lights include: • Wall lights

• Track lighting • Recessed spotlighting • Wall-mounted picture lights

Accent lighting differs from other types of lighting as its prime objective is aesthetically pleasing the viewer by creating a point of interest. It adds drama and excitement to a space and is best suited to living and garden areas, entryways, and anywhere special features are desired to be displayed. Recessed ceiling lights, track lights, or wall-mounted lighting fixtures can be angled and directed to create a highlight in living or common areas.

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