subject: The secret world of lighting [print this page] The secret world of lighting The secret world of lighting
The field of architectural lighting is a fascinating one because it incorporates so many different aspects and relates to very different types of buildings.
What does architectural lighting involve the consideration of? For starters, there are the practical aspects: the lighting of the building, the light required for the building to function for its due purpose (e.g. a sports stadium), and the costs required to set up the lighting and maintain it, and finally, the energy efficiency of the lighting.
These will each be examined in greater depth, but first let us look at the type of buildings for which lighting is an issue.
Office building in the central business district of cities do not only have to consider internal lighting though of course, this is necessary even where there is a great deal of natural light. People often work late; in the winter it gets darker earlier, and in any case, emergency lighting must be available should an emergency arise.
But office buildings I am referring to skyscrapers here also need to consider the aesthetics of their lighting. When darkness falls and the city lights up, each office building has to contribute to the glittering skyline that we associate as part of the modern beauty of the modern city.
Consider this cultural and sociological aspect of lighting compared to the lighting for building where aesthetics does not even figure because of the task at hand. Sports centres require lighting so that people can play at all times of day and night, for health and safety purposes lighting is essential. Hospitals and surgical centres are another place where lighting is vital for the success of the purpose of the building poor lighting when surgery is taking place? It doesn't bear thinking about!
Nowhere does the aesthetics and purpose of lighting come together more cleverly than in casinos and theatres. Theatres require effective lighting so that the audience can find their way to their seats, but also to create an atmosphere and a setting for the performance before the play or musical has even begun. There is nothing like the feeling of lights dimming in a theatre to instil a feeling of excitement in the audience.
Lighting in casinos has a slightly more sinister effect. While on the one hand lighting is essential to make the space look attractive, lighting is often used in these buildings to create an unreal sense of time making people stay for longer thus gambling more - all to the benefit of the casino owners.
Before deciding upon a course of action and approaching lighting suppliers, businesses should work out what they require lighting for (practical or aesthetics or both), what costs are involved and what their budget is and what the environmental impact of their lighting is.
This final point is one growing in importance. Many lighting suppliers are better equipped than ever at providing energy efficient lighting solutions that will help you meet all your needs. As always, don't forget to visit online sites such as www.nationallighting.co.uk to take advantage of special deals without losing out on a great customer experience and advice.
