Design
Lighting design is a process. Specifically, it is the process of integrating light
into the fabric of architecture.
Successful lighting is integrated into both
the architectural concept and the physical
structure.
The lighting concept is integrated into
the architectural concept in three ways: (1)
by enhancing the original designer’s concep-
tion of the space, (2) by reinforcing the activ-
ity in the space, and (3) by highlighting areas
to be prominent, while de-emphasizing
areas to be subdued.
Lighting equipment is integrated into the
physical structure of the building in three
ways: (1) by selecting visible elements that
harmonize with the design motif, (2) by
incorporating hidden elements within the
architectural forms and surfaces, and (3) by
coördinating electrical systems with the
other mechanical systems of the building.
Visual Clarity
People search for simplification of their
visual fields when faced with demanding
tasks and activities. In an environment that
is used for complex activities, too many
visual stimuli or too many patterns will result
in an overload condition. We become tense
and frustrated and have a diminished ability
to perform a complex task.
When we are reading with music playing
nearby, the sound competes with the written
material yet allows comprehension of sim-
pler passages. At a complex portion of the
material, where the reading task becomes
more absorbing, we instinctively turn the
volume down or off. In doing so, the amount
of information that is competing for attention
is reduced.
Meaningless or confusing luminances in
a space are similarly distracting. The brain
becomes overstimulated, spending additional
time and energy sorting out conflicting infor-
mation. This is calledvisual clutter; it is analo-
gous to noise or static in acoustical design.
As the activity or task becomes more
complex (more loaded), visual clutter
becomes more distracting. It affects worker
performance, particularly when the worker is
faced with demanding (more stimulating)
tasks. Visual clutter undermines long-term
performance of all complex tasks.
Visual clarity reduces the number of
stimuli in the field of view. It allows us to move
through space and complete tasks without
any attention being drawn to the lighting
system. This leaves our concentration avail-
able for the task at hand (figure 13.1).