Illuminating the Built Environment

When we think about design and the built interior, lighting is often the last thought to come to mind. If lighting is not considered within the design process it can destroy all the creative work that has come before it.

Working with Light and indeed Shadow early in on the design process is key to being able to control the atmosphere and enhance materials used.

Many things are taken into account when we consider lighting your spaces. What are the physical constraints, what is the desired "feel", what tasks are being undertaken, do we need to zone areas for starters.

Understanding the tools available and how these tools interact and create layers of light defining your space.

There are three basic types of light:-

1.????? General Lighting (Ambient Light) Creating base lighting Levels.

2.????? Feature Lighting (Accent Light) Highlighting Features/drawing attention.

3.????? Architectural (Feature Light) Creating Subtle Layers adding detail

Available tools:-

·?????? Shadows - To create effective lighting first consider shadows these will assist you creating the desired atmosphere!

·?????? Downlighters - for general lighting available in beam angles selected depending on contrast desired.

·?????? Uplighters - casting light upwards, using indirect light softens the wash and diffuses the light.

·?????? Wallwashers - to light vertical surfaces with an even pool of light when placed set back or create accented pools of light with closer arrangement.

·?????? Strip Lighting - Can be incorporated into furniture, cornices to add layering be careful to access the technical specification as this is where consistency can be destroyed ruining your overall look.

·?????? Decorative – These elements are custom to your project, setting the tone of your surroundings.

Lighting should be a key element of your project.? Lighting creates your “feel” of a space.? Creating texture, depth, richness and creating structure!?

For more guidance please email selina.fowler@lpalighting.com