Lighting is part of the architectural composition and the interplay of the bodies that serve the purpose of lighting with the other elements of the spatial context is a key issue. The composition of the lighting design is an integral part of the overall architectural design and once this is taken as a given, the integration of the lighting bodies into the architectural shell becomes feasible.
Luminaires are the means by which light is distributed in space, while the choice of their type and position are key issues for the lighting designer. It is a creative process involving several steps, from the conception of the idea to the specification and installation of the luminaires in the field of study.
A lighting study aims to ensure the smooth integration of luminaires in the space, but also to ensure the necessary lighting levels according to its use. The harmonization of artificial lighting with the architectural shell can be achieved by different ways of positioning the luminaires, that is by creating either strictly geometric arrangements or more free and organic ones. The fact is that technology is now giving the designer the scope to realize his idea, freed from earlier limitations of light sources.
The new LED technology is a milestone, not only in terms of energy savings, but also in terms of design. In particular, their small scale has created a challenge at the design level, as it has made it possible for them to be assimilated into the architectural shell. The close dialogue between the architectural construction detail of two LED light sources replaced the traditional way of lighting. For example, in many typical covert details the recess itself that houses the LED sources acts as a means of diffusing the light.
In conclusion, it can be observed that the arrangement of the luminaires is influenced by the architectural trend of the time and facilitated by technological developments. Still, it develops different expressions in the field of lighting and evokes a multitude of impressions on the viewer, with the lighting designer managing the lighting media like a conductor who chooses the final “sound shape” of a musical work based on the flexibility of his technique.
Text editor: Dimitra Maragou – Lighting Consultant
