Page 31 - spaceplanning1
P. 31
WHAT IS LIGHTING IN ARCHITECTURE
The elements of architecture are light and shade, walls and space. Light is a
prerequisite for architecture, since it is the element that renders walls and
spaces visible. With the right light, well-designed buildings and interiors are
considerably enhanced. Whether it is daylighting or artificial lighting, light draws
attention to textures, colors, and forms of a space, helping architecture achieve
its true purpose. Vision is the single most important sense through which we
enjoy architecture, and lighting enhances the way we perceive architecture even
more. Daylighting is the practice of placing windows, skylights, other openings,
and reflective surfaces so that sunlight (direct or indirect) can provide effective
internal lighting. Particular attention is given to daylighting while designing a
building when the aim is to maximize visual comfort or to reduce energy use.
The lighting design in architecture process takes account of the kind of human
activity for which lighting is to be provided, the amount of light required, the
color of the light as it may affect the views of particular objects and the
environment as a whole, the distribution of light within the space to be lighted,
whether indoor or outdoor and the effect of the lightened system itself on the
user. The aim of lighting design is the human response, to see clearly and
without discomfort. The objective of architectural lighting design is to further
the design of architecture or the experience of buildings and other physical
structures
SPACE IN ARCHITECTURE 31