Knowledge

UNDERSTANDING ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING

Lighting decisions shape how a space looks, feels and functions. Here we explore the principles, technologies and practical considerations behind architectural lighting, from colour rendering and visual comfort to lighting controls, sustainability and Human Centric Lighting.

Our articles connect lighting knowledge with the questions that arise in real projects. How does light affect the appearance of materials? What helps reduce glare? And how can lighting respond to different activities within the same space?

Architectural lighting drawings and sketches on paper, tools including a caliper, T-square, and mechanical pencils on a desk.

We share what we know

Drawing on LIK Lighting’s practical project experience, we share clear explanations and technical guidance for architects, interior designers and project teams. We aim to make lighting choices easier to understand and evaluate, with attention to both design intent and how the solution works in practice.

Explore the principles. Understand the choices. Apply them to your project.

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LIGHTING QUESTIONS

Questions about light and lighting design

Clear answers to some of the principles, terms and practical considerations behind architectural lighting.

  • Architectural lighting design considers how light works with architecture, interiors and function. It involves more than selecting luminaires, including light distribution, visual comfort, colour quality, controls, positioning and integration with the building.

  • Human Centric Lighting considers how light can respond to human visual and biological needs. It may involve changes in light level and colour temperature over time, but the exact approach depends on the application and the lighting system.

  • Colour temperature describes whether white light appears warmer or cooler and is measured in Kelvin. Colour rendering describes how colours appear under a light source. The two are related to light quality, but they describe different characteristics.

  • Glare can occur when there is excessive brightness or contrast within the field of view. Luminaire position, optics, shielding, viewing direction and surrounding surfaces can all influence visual comfort.

  • Ideally, lighting should be considered early enough to coordinate it with architecture, interiors, ceilings, electrical installations and controls. Early decisions can make it easier to integrate both the visual and technical aspects of the lighting solution.