Natural and artificial lighting in architecture is an important matter. Lighting design is the set of guidelines for handling natural and artificial light sources to illuminate architectural spaces, both indoors and outdoors.
The two types of lighting should be used at the same time, each complementing the other. The aim is to meet the needs of a space by making the most of natural light and, where that is not possible, to use artificial light both to illuminate and for its aesthetic value.
Below we look at several aspects of natural and artificial lighting in architecture so that you can get to know their characteristics. If you are interested and would like to read more, visit our website: we are luxury renovation architects.
Natural lighting in architecture
Natural light in an architectural project is influenced by the orientation of the room and the openings it has. Even so, you can achieve greater brightness through the strategic use of certain surfaces, materials and colours.
Natural lighting is also considered an important factor because it helps to save energy during the day.
What is more, it creates a natural aesthetic through the interplay of light and shadow in all its many shades.
At our architecture studio in Málaga, we design every project with particular attention to lighting, understanding its impact on quality of life and on the energy efficiency of each space.
Openings in buildings
The more openings a building has, the more natural light will come in.
Windows, roof lanterns and skylights are architectural devices for bringing in natural light, and they also act as points of passage.
Colours and textures
Light colours are used on walls and other elements to gain brightness. Soft, pastel shades create a sense of spaciousness, which is why they are so widely used in small spaces.
Smooth, polished materials also make the bathrooms and kitchens where they are used feel more spacious, because they reflect the natural light they receive. Polished concrete, very popular today, is a good example.
Artificial lighting in architecture
Artificial lighting allows us to redesign spaces when natural light is not available.
Its possibilities in architecture are endless: it can illuminate a space and reinforce its creative and emotional qualities.
There are several types of artificial lighting:
General lighting
This uses a single light fitting hung from the ceiling; if the area is large, several fittings should be used. It provides overall lighting across the chosen area while avoiding shadows.
Accent lighting
This is used to define a space and make it stand out: you can read the hierarchy of the spaces within a building from the intensity of light each one receives. It also helps to create different atmospheres and to highlight particular architectural features. A building can look more attractive when its columns, murals and other distinctive elements are lit.
Decorative lighting
This is used to decorate a room and creates a warm, comfortable atmosphere, for example the soft light of bedside lamps.
A good lighting project in architecture should take the concepts of perception into account and visualise the space through natural and artificial lighting in architecture.
That is all on natural and artificial lighting in architecture. If you would like to find out more, visit our website: we are architects in Málaga and we carry out luxury renovations.
