Importance of Architectural Lighting

Lighting choices play a vital role in the way people experience and essentially understand architecture. This is true whether the buildings and structures are lit naturally or artificially – lighting is the medium through which we can see and appreciate the beauty in the construction of the buildings that surround us. LED strip lights are perfect for architectural installations as they are versatile and have many different useful properties. 

LED Lighting can bring an emotional value to architecture – it helps to create an experience for those who are occupying the space. Without lighting, where would architecture be? Would it still have the same level of impact? The clear answer is, no it wouldn’t. Whether it is daylighting or artificial lighting, light draws attention to certain textures, shapes, and colours; it helps to draw attention and to help architecture achieve its true purpose. Vision is the single most important sense when it comes to enjoying architecture, and having good lighting enhances the way we perceive architecture. 

In order to create a successful balance between architecture and lighting, it is important to remember the four key aspects that are associated with architectural lighting; aesthetic, function, efficiency and human needs. 

Aesthetic

This is where designers and architects focus in on the emotional impact that the balance of lighting and architecture will have on the buildings occupants. This is when the designers determine how they want people to feel when they walk into and around a space. This aspect is paramount in retail locations; exterior lighting needs to draw the consumer in, and the interior lighting needs to wow them as they walk through the doors. 

Function

This aspect cannot be overlooked; we want lighting to look a certain way, but we also have to make sure that it properly serves its overall purpose – to help us see. Areas should be illuminated so that occupants feel safe when navigating a room, or even the entire building. They should be able to clearly see the floor and walls around them, which should help to produce the feeling of reassurance. 

Efficiency

In today’s modern age of green building and sustainability movements, buildings need to not only have a breath taking lighting layout, but also be energy efficient. This can be achieved by ensuring that the majority of the light is reaching its target and there is less wasted light – reducing the amount of wasted light will make the building more efficient, and environmentally friendly. An easy way to achieve this is by installing LEDs, due to their improved technology, there is less wasted light with LEDs when compared to fluorescents. 

Human Needs

It has been proven time and time again, that the quality of light in a building has an affect on the people who are in it. Therefore, the satisfaction and productivity of an office employee can either be positively or negatively influenced by the lighting plan. Having a well-designed lighting plan can save owners or managers a lot of money, and can add value. It is no secret that people are attracted to well-lit public facilities, commercial complexes or parks. Good quality lighting improves the mood and level of desirability of such spaces and can greatly contribute to a sense of well-being.