The Science of Light Design – Often Overlooked

As a designer in the commercial industry there are a multitude of elements we have to keep in mind that are important to the function of a space. One thing that comes in to play is the lighting of a space and how it affects the productivity, concentration and mood of those occupying it. For example, an office space with a warm color temperature and dim lighting could cause eye strain, fatigue and headaches. The design industry has recently developed new technologies to target the negative effects of lighting. https://www.informedesign.org/_news/feb_v02-p.pdf

One product that I am interested in is a lighting system that changes its color temperature throughout the day. I recently attended an event at the Hossley Lighting showroom where they demonstrated this new technology. The system actually brightens around 3:00 pm, which is normally a time of fatigue in an office. By brightening the space around this time, the productivity of those working in the space is heightened.

Lighting also has the ability to change the atmosphere of a space. For example, typically when you go in to a bar or lounge you expect dim lighting. But what if that same bar or lounge had the lighting you would expect in an office space? Most people would not feel comfortable with the brightness because it doesn’t connect with the ambiance you would expect. This concept also applies to retail spaces. Imagine trying to shop with dim or dark lighting. It would be very difficult. This is why bright, direct lighting is important in these spaces.

Although lighting is probably one of the last things that comes to mind when you think of interiors, its importance is crucial for the aesthetic and function of all spaces.

 

Ashley Mobley

Ashley Mobley

As Project Manager, Ashley is involved in every phase of the design process from schematics to furniture selection and everything in between.
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