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New Light Staging
Light is energy. It gives us verve and motivation. Light brings colour into our lives. It makes our lives different and colourful. This is why the manner of light distribution is a critical criterion for the selection of lamps. It should be adjusted according to the lighting function. Harmonic lighting is achieved by using a variety of lamps with different light distributions.
Additional lamps often work miracles as far as the atmosphere and feeling in the room are concerned. Light oriented toward the room walls makes space wider and emphasizes greater spatial dimensions. "Light islands" - spotlights with specifically used lightign effects - divide the environment into structures.
Light Incidence – in a light beam or scattered?
Reflectors condense light into a beam and redirect it. For the basic lighting of space, widely shining lamps are the most suitable. Light concentrated strongly in a beam is used primarily for the exact illumination of a spot and for accent lighting. The size of the directly illuminated area is calculated according to the distance, shape and size of the lamp opening. A smaller part of the emitted light illuminates surroundings decoratively and may reduce light level contrasts.
Lamps made from transparent material distribute light uniformly. In a sufficient amount and site layout, they provide uniform basic lighting. However, to establish mood and intensity, the effects must be even. Widely shining Fluter or Uplights redirect the light beam upwards to light, reflective walls or ceilings.
Example of an uplight for ceilings: M10 SKU: 115861 ( Available by order from Mega stores only)
Smaller components of the light emphasize the lamp and give individual characteristics to the space. The light source should be located above eye level and should be shaded. The basic lighting created is shadowless and should be combined with other lamps.
Useful Light versus Disturbing Light
In addition to the technical characteristics of light, an important role in experiencing space is also played by the psychophysical processes of perception. The eye can adjust to light fluctuations depending on different levels of luminosity provided that the retina changes its sensitivity to light. In low light levels, the eye becomes more sensitive, whereas an excess of light causes a reduction of the eye's sensitivity.
This process is called adaptation. Basically, each light source has a useful luminous flux in the visual field. This is the light which illuminates a space via reflection from different materials. In contrast, we understand the light which is directed immediately towards the eye from the light source as undesired luminous flux.
The illumination of space is optimized by the maximization of useful luminous flux and minimization of undesired luminous flux. For balanced light design with no direct source of glare, the eye adapts by optimization of the recognition ability.
Communication is LIGHT
Light is not unidirectional radiation. Light represents a dialog between viewer and his/her surroundings; it is a catalyst that enables visual experience. There are no outlines without light. There is no space and no colours without light.
Colours affect mood and feelings and for that reason, there must be colour at home. Light is at least as important as colour within our own four walls. With both - light and colour - it is possible to make experiments, create moods, increase or decrease space or suppress unfavourable spatial relations.
Only harmony between the change of light and shadow enables furniture and objects to become distinguishable. Brightly illuminated areas have a more stimulating effect than shadowy rooms and that is why a social room should be well illuminated, according to psychological aspects. Lighting controls the colour perception and the overall staging of the space. At the same time, it is necessary to differentiate between the colour of light and colour reproduction.
Colour Reproduction
The reproduction of the colour of a light source indicates its colour effect, which creates light on coloured objects. This means that the colour of the light which is reflected on the object depends on the colour of the lighting. Even if two illuminations seem absolutely identical, an object may always look different under these illuminations, because the object may show itself only in colours or in a mixture of colours which are also contained in the light.
The properties of colour reproduction provide information about the nature of the reflected colour of the object or material under artificial light. In terms of positive lighting effects, it is necessary to keep in mind warm, relaxed colouring.
The Colour of Light
The colour of light is the colour appearance of the light source (in contrast to the colour of an object, which arises only from illumination). The colour of light results from the spectral composition of emitted light and is described as the light temperature. Lower colour temperatures are assigned red colour shades and with increased heat, the colour shade becomes white and then blue. Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin (K).
They all appear white to the human eye - differences become apparent with slight comparisons.
Primarily, warm white, neutral white and daily white light are used in illumination technology. The preferred colour of light in residential premises is a warm white, because it creates a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. Conversely, neutral white light causes a rather unemotional mood. It is used especially in working environments.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF LIGHTING
| ACCENT LIGHTING |
In accent lighting, single spatial zones or objects are emphasized. Very light accents are well applied. The level of the accent is above the general lighting level.
Accent lighting, also called highlighting, emphasizes objects by focusing light directly on them. Accent lighting is used inside and outside the home to feature locations such as an entrance or to create dramatic effects. Also, points of visual interest can be created by highlighting artwork, fireplaces, plants, textured walls, or architectural details.
However, be selective when using accent lighting because overuse can create a space that appears to be unorganized or cluttered. Accent lighting is achieved by properly locating directional luminaires.
For highest efficiency, luminaires should be located as close as possible to the object they illuminate. Low-voltage parabolic aluminized reflector (PAR) and multi-faceted reflector (MR) lamps are available with very narrow beams that are appropriate for small objects. These lamps are energy efficient because little light is wasted as stray light. Avoid glare by using proper mounting locations and aiming angles.
Choose luminaires that have baffles or shields because glare is a special concern when using accent lighting. Switch accent luminaires separately from other luminaires in the room so that the resident can use the accent luminaires only when they are needed.
This also permits the resident to limit the time that sensitive objects such as photographs and artwork are exposed to light. Create effective highlights and save energy by reducing the ambient light in the space surrounding the accented object.
Additionally, choose background colors that contrast strongly with the highlighted object to reduce the light output required to achieve a dramatic effect. For example, place a white object on a dark background.
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| AMBIENT LIGHTING |
Ambient lighting provides the general illumination for a space and enables people to move around the home. Ambient lighting suffices for non-visually demanding activities such as conversation or television viewing. Ambient lighting can be provided by many types of luminaires.
Most rooms in homes are small enough so that one or two luminaires will provide adequate ambient light. Avoid high illuminances for ambient lighting, unless visually demanding tasks (such as reading or crafts) are done throughout the room. Lower illuminances can save energy because lower-wattage lamps can be used. For maximum efficiency, combine low ambient illuminances with local accent or task lighting for work areas.
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| BASIC LIGHTING |
Basic lighting - also called general lighting - is general lighting without consideration for special visual tasks in different areas. It ensures the visibility of architecture, objects and people in the space and provides orientation. In addition, separate areas can be illuminated (accent lighting).
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| DIRECT LIGHTING |
Lighting is direct if the lamps emit light directly into the space and onto a level or areas which need to be illuminated. See also indirect lighting.
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| TASK LIGHTING |
Task lighting provides increased light for specific tasks in a room that may already have some ambient lighting. Task lighting is especially appropriate for seeing small objects or objects of low contrast. For example, a person who is sewing would need extra light to easily see black stitches on black fabric.
ask lighting can also provide increased illuminances for tasks that are critical, such as reading directions on a bottle of medicine. Some residential appliances, including sewing machines, range hoods, refrigerators, and upright vacuum cleaners, have built-in task lighting. Always consider the tasks that will be performed in a room before designing the lighting. Plan for multiple uses of rooms, and for various arrangements of furniture. Remember that as people age, they need more light for critical tasks.
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| EFFICIENCY |
The efficiency is the indication for the economy of a bulb. It indicates how many lumens (lm) per watt (W) are created by one bulb. The higher the lumen/watt ratio, the better the transformation of input power into light. Examples: 12 lm/W bulb, 20 lm/W halogen bulb, 60 lm/W energy-saving bulb, 90 lm/W triple-tube fluorescent lamp.
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| GENERAL LIGHITNG |
General lighting - also called basic lighting - is the uniform lighting of a space without consideration for special visual tasks in different areas. This ensures the visibility of architecture, objects and people in the space. It gives an overview and provides orientation. For completion, particular areas are emphasized with accent lighting
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| IN-DIRECT LIGHTING |
If light from the lamps is aimed solely at ceilings or walls and from them is reflected into the space, this is an indirect effect. Bulbs are shaded from the face of the viewer; a light output above eye level protects against glare. Indirect lighting is used mostly in combination with direct lighting. Entirely indirect light may lead to a diffuse spatial effect and shadowless light relations. To achieve the same lighting intensities, the utilization of energy for indirect lighting is higher than for direct lighting.
The technique of indirect lighting uses one or more luminaires to direct light onto the ceiling and upper walls of a room; the ceiling and upper walls act as reflectors and distribute the light evenly throughout the room. This technique is also referred to as uplighting. For highest efficiency, the walls and ceiling should be painted white, or a very light color. Indirect lighting minimizes shadows and reflected glare.
It is especially appropriate for tasks involving glossy paper, or reflective surfaces such as computers or televisions. For other critical visual tasks, a supplementary task light may be required. Use fluorescent lamps for greatest energy savings. Clean luminaires regularly because dust and insects collect on or in the luminaires and reduce light output. Avoid lighting ceilings and walls that have surface imperfections.
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| WALL WASHING |
Wall washing illuminates a vertical surface to an acceptably uniform brightness. Wall washing draws attention to the wall, and can be used to accentuate an entrance, fireplace, or artwork. The light reflected from matte surface walls can make a room appear bright and will provide a soft, diffuse light in the room. Paint walls white or a light color for greatest efficiency.
Wall washing can make spaces such as hallways or narrow rooms appear more spacious. Wall washing is achieved by placing luminaires in or on the ceiling or on the floor at regular intervals. The spacing between the luminaires and between the luminaires and the wall determines the brightness of the surface.
The spacing can be calculated so that the wall is evenly illuminated, or illuminated in a regular pattern that creates a scalloped effect. Follow the manufacturers' recommendations for spacing the luminaires. If wall washing is used for ambient light in a room, provide additional lighting for special purposes where needed, or locate tasks that need high illumination, such as reading or sewing, near the walls. Mount the luminaires close enough to the wall so that people seated nearby will not receive direct glare.
Do not wall wash windows or mirrors because the image of the lamps and luminaires may be reflected. Several other cautions pertain to wall washing. Dark surfaces reflect far less light than do white surfaces, so more light should be directed onto them if they are to be perceived as being wall washed. Luminaires mounted close to the wall create a grazing effect on textured surfaces. This can be an advantage if the texture is attractive, but should be avoided where the wall has surface irregularities resulting from poor quality drywall taping or sanding. |
Kitchens
Give special consideration to lighting counters, as this is the primary task area in kitchens. Where possible locate the sink in front of a window for good use of daylighting. Locate luminaires near the areas of greatest use and on both sides of the primary work areas to control glare. Install downlights over the counter 1 to 2 feet from the wall, but avoid locating them over the upper wall cabinets. To minimize shadows, avoid locating the lamp behind the person using the counter. Use under-cabinet luminaires to avoid shadows under overhead cabinets.
Dining Rooms
These designs illustrate areas of the home containing a table used primarily for eating, although other tasks such as food preparation and doing homework may also be done at these tables.
A dining room is often a separate room; a dinette may be part of a kitchen area or a separate alcove. Use these designs for any area of the home used for dining. Where possible, locate the table near a window to take advantage of daylighting.
The most important function in dining rooms is seeing what is on the table and the people around it, so supplement ambient light with a luminaire over or near the table. Consider using the wall washing technique if the table is against a wall and the wall is a light color. In small rooms, a single luminaire over the table often can provide task lighting for the table as well as ambient lighting. Use dimming where the table is used for different tasks such as dining and homework.
Living Rooms
The living room designs support many activities, including conversation, reading, and viewing television. Locate luminaires near places where reading or other visually demanding tasks will be done. Use table or floor lamps, which can be relocated as the furniture arrangement changes. For watching television, use low-level ambient lighting.
Locate the television so that the images of light sources, including windows, are not reflected from the television screen into the eyes of the viewer. For greater viewing comfort, avoid windows or bright lamps and luminaires on the wall directly behind the television.
Switch lamps separately in a living room with a television, or use dimmers to reduce ambient light when there are no other simultaneous visual tasks such as reading. Living rooms may also have artwork on the walls. Avoid direct sunlight on paintings, prints, and drawings to reduce fading.
To highlight artwork, use accent lighting or wall washing techniques. Position the lamp to avoid reflected glare, especially for shiny surfaces or glass covered artworks. Locate low-wattage lamps close to the artwork to save energy while maintaining illumination; however, do not locate them so close that they would discolor or burn the artwork. To reveal texture and form on sculptures, try lighting one side of the form more than the other to create shadows. Switch the artwork luminaires separately to avoid long exposure to light on sensitive artwork.
Bathrooms
An important visual task in a bathroom is viewing oneself in the mirror. Direct the light to the person, not to the mirror. Use light from both sides of the mirror to reduce shadows on the face. If a single luminaire is used above the mirror, use one that is at least 2 feet long to avoid casting shadows under the chin; avoid reflector lamps because they may cast harsh shadows. Use a light-colored countertop to reflect light under the chin. Also avoid locating the lamp behind the persons viewing the mirror, to prevent their faces from being in a shadow. Use fluorescent lamps for bathroom mirrors to provide good color.
Example of bathroom mirror lights
Bedrooms
Provide a separately switched task light for reading in bed. Consider using wall-mounted luminaires with adjustable arms so that they can be positioned to direct light onto the reading material and to avoid glare. Locate the switch so that it is accessible from the bed. To avoid potential burns, be sure that the luminaires are secure, especially those containing incandescent lamps.
Locate the luminaire above the head of the bed to minimize shadows. For orientation at night, use a low-wattage night light plugged into an electrical outlet instead of operating a hall or closet light. Some bedrooms have luminaires in the closet.
Consider using the room's ambient lighting for shallow closets because supplementary lighting for closets is not always necessary. Clothes-closet storage areas, as defined by the National Electric Code, may not contain unenclosed incandescent or fluorescent lamps. An enclosed surface-mounted luminaire with incandescent lamps may be used in closets if the luminaire is at least 12 inches away from the storage area (6 inches for a luminaire with fluorescent lamps).
Enclosed recessed luminaires (with incandescent or fluorescent lamps) must be at least 6 inches away from the storage area. If a closet luminaire is likely to be left on, consider using a timer or luminaires with fluorescent lamps. Locate surface-mounted luminaires so that they do not interfere with placing objects on the shelf. Do not locate the luminaire directly over the storage shelf; instead, place it on the opposite wall, near the ceiling. You should also make note of any specific installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Information courtesy of Eglo Lighting
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