Lighting Design Essentials

Starkey Electrical’s Guide to Lighting Design!

Aesthetics in Lighting Design

Taking aesthetics into consideration when installing lighting is crucial to create an appealing and visually pleasing environment. The look of a lighting fixture plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of any installation. Whether it’s a residential space, commercial building or outdoor area, the design and style of the lighting fittings should complement the surroundings and enhance the ambience.

Choosing the best lights for your environment

Another important aspect to consider when installing lighting is the desired light output. Before commencing any installation, it is essential to assess the required lux levels in collaboration with the client. Different spaces have different lighting needs. For instance, a kitchen or a clean room would typically require a white LED colour render to ensure a clean and bright atmosphere. This type of lighting would enhance visibility and make the space more functional.

On the other hand, when dealing with a brick external barn, a different approach is necessary to showcase the unique characteristics of the building. In this case, lower-level warm white lighting (around 3000K) could be used, potentially with dimmable options. This type of lighting would accentuate the brickwork, barn doors, and wooden elements, creating a cosy and rustic ambience.

Warehouse lighting requires careful consideration to meet the specific requirements of the space. It is crucial to select appropriate beam angles for LED fittings to achieve the right distribution of light. For example, in narrow aisles, it would be impractical to use wide beam angles as they would result in lighting stock on the racks rather than providing adequate illumination in the picking areas. By selecting the correct beam angles, the lighting can be optimised to facilitate efficient and accurate picking operations.

The importance of IP ratings in wet environments

In areas where moisture or dampness is a concern, such as wet rooms or shower rooms, it is essential to prioritise the selection of appropriate lighting fixtures. The chosen fittings must have the necessary IP (Ingress Protection) rating to withstand environmental conditions. Installing non-IP rated fixtures in such spaces would lead to moisture ingress, resulting in a limited lifespan for the fittings. By selecting IP-rated fixtures, the lighting installation will remain safe, durable, and reliable in these specific environments.

In conclusion

When installing lighting, aesthetics should be considered to ensure that the fixtures blend seamlessly with the surroundings and enhance the overall look of the space. Additionally, the desired light output, taking into account lux levels, is crucial to meet the functional requirements of different areas. The specific needs of each space, such as warehouses or wet rooms, must be considered when selecting lighting fixtures to ensure optimal performance and longevity. By incorporating these considerations, lighting installations can create visually pleasing environments while meeting the functional demands of the space.