When the average person thinks of lighting in a building, they probably imagine that comes late in the process, as part of the decor. An architectural lighting designer, however, will actually be closely involved as an expert consultant throughout the construction of a new building or the renovation of an existing space, from conception through execution. In this month’s blog we explore the role of a lighting designer and how they light up our lives.
In our last blog, we looked at the different roles that illumination plays in architecture. We saw how lighting can set the mood for a space, impact how visitors perceive the size of a structure, and make a building more ergonomically appealing for those who use it. This means that an architectural lighting designer needs to understand the aesthetic, functional, and efficiency objectives for a space. The lighting designer’s work should integrate seamlessly into the design, working in harmony with the construction.
A lighting designer works to create an illumination scheme that will help fully realize the architect’s overall vision. To begin, a designer needs to understand how the client will use the space and how they want it to look. Then the lighting designer can bring in their artistic skill and technical prowess to determine the most effective and efficient ways to light up the space. Building use is not static, it often changes several times throughout the day and night. The availability of natural light will also vary with the seasons (and the weather), and the lighting designer needs to be able to figure out how to adapt to these changing conditions while maintaining a uniform feel inside and outside the structure.
In addition to the overall design concept, an architectural lighting designer also needs to be an implementation expert. The designer needs a solid understanding of the latest technologies when it comes to distributing light, harnessing available natural light, and maximizing energy efficiency. The design does not stop at the light and fixtures but goes all the way through the controls.
Clients increasingly want more efficient lighting concepts, with an eye on both the environmental and financial benefits. When working on the Kohler Creative Communications Center in Wisconsin, our designers sought to maximize efficiency with occupancy sensors and smart controls that would dim lights during times of minimal traffic. The lighting designer needs to be able to translate their clients’ wishes into feasible applications that enhance the architectural plans at every turn.
A lighting designer not only focuses on the space at the time of construction, but also anticipates future needs. Ease and/or frequency of maintenance is another concern. On the Kohler project, for example, we incorporated metal halide and LED sources to minimize lamp changes and made sure roof-mounted floodlights were easily accessible by roof deck and/or ladder when maintenance needs arise. On this project, we also kept the neighbors in mind and adapted nighttime lighting to minimize light pollution.
In order to fulfill these different roles effectively, an architectural lighting designer needs to have not only a firm grasp of architectural principles and technology, but also people, regulations, aesthetics, and the physics of light. Architecture is not just the creation of walls and a roof, it is an experience, and the lighting designer helps add texture to the spatial experience. An effective lighting scheme fosters a mood, helps draw our attention through the space, and enhances the ergonomics of a building.
With such a wide breadth of knowledge and skills, an architectural lighting designer truly plays a number of critical roles. Not only does the designer consult closely with the architect and client, they also become a bridge to product designers and suppliers, electrical contractors, and construction teams. A lighting designer is an artist, a project manager, and a technology wizard, and a key player in bringing an architect’s vision to life.
At CharterSills, we believe that when lighting is designed correctly, it can add dimension to the simplest of spaces. Lighting can turn an ordinary space into a work of art. Whatever design challenges clients present, CharterSills responds with a solution that exceeds their expectations. Contact us today at (312) 759-5909 or by email at info@chartersills.com.