Lighting is a key element of every interior, affecting its appearance, atmosphere, and functionality. When designing lighting, it is important to be aware of a few key principles that will help create a harmonious and efficient lighting system. In this article, we will discuss five main principles to consider when designing lighting.
1. Balance between Upward and Downward Lighting:
The balance between upward and downward lighting is crucial for creating the right mood in a room. Upward lighting can optically enlarge the space, create a soft light effect on walls and ceilings, and also create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Meanwhile, downward lighting is necessary to provide an adequate amount of light at the floor level and to highlight important decor elements
2. Division by Function: General Light, Task Light, Decorative Light:
When designing lighting, consider dividing it into different lighting functions. General light is the basic source of light, providing even illumination throughout the room. Task lighting is used for specific activities, such as reading, cooking, or working at a desk. Decorative light, on the other hand, serves an aesthetic function, highlighting selected interior decor elements.
3. Light Temperature and Brightness:
The color temperature of light affects the appearance and atmosphere of an interior. It’s worth choosing lighting sources with appropriate light temperatures, for example, warm colors (about 2700K) give interiors a cozy feel, while cooler colors (about 5000K) are more suitable for areas requiring high brightness, like kitchens or offices. The brightness of the lighting should be adjusted to the function of the room and the preferences of the users. These parameters also affect the cycles of hormone production in the human body.
4. Shape of Light and Rhythm:
Carefully selecting different types of lighting fixtures allows for creating interesting visual effects. The shape of the light can influence the direction and character of the lighting. A lamp with directional spotlights focuses light on specific areas, while a lamp with a shade can diffuse light in a softer way. Additionally, it’s a good idea to introduce rhythm in lighting.
5. Amount of Contrast and Glare:
Properly balancing the amount of light, contrasts, and glare significantly affects the comfort of room users. Too much contrast can cause eye fatigue, so it’s important to ensure a proper balance between bright and dark areas. Also, avoid glare, which can occur when the light source is directly visible and dazzles our eyes. It’s advisable to choose properly shielded light sources or use lamps with matte shades.
In summary, lighting design requires a conscious approach to several key principles. The balance between upward and downward light, division by different functions, appropriate light temperature, diversity of shapes and rhythm, and attention to the amount of contrast and glare, are elements that will allow creating a thoughtful, functional, and aesthetic lighting system in any interior.