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Architectural lighting
A skilled architectural lighting designer must consider a multitude of factors when crafting a lighting system. These include the building's function, the character of the space, the intended use by occupants, and specific materials and colors used in the construction. By skillfully employing light and shadow, exterior Architectural Lighting accentuates key features, dramatically enhancing curb appeal and creating a sophisticated, high-end appearance.
Beyond aesthetics, outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and security. Proper illumination of walkways and steps ensures safe and comfortable navigation, reducing the risk of accidents.
A few of the tools we use for creating impressive exterior lighting designs are facade lighting, column lights, entry way and stairway lighting.
Facade and Column Lighting techniques
Uplighting:
- For a dramatic, formal, and polished aesthetic,we use uplighting. This technique involves strategically placing small fixtures around the foundation of a building or at the base of each column, directing light upwards. This creates a captivating effect by highlighting stone and brick exterior or making columns appear to glow individually. Compared to wash lighting, column uplighting offers a more precise and even illumination.
Soffit Lighting (DownLighting):
- The purpose of soffit lighting is to enhance a property's aesthetic appeal and add dramatic accents to it. Soffit lighting can be installed between windows, on balconies and decks, or near the edges of the house to illuminate walls. Soffits are the undersides of the roof overhang where the lighting is typically installed.
Wash Lighting:
- Wash lighting shares similarities with uplighting, but with a less even and uniform distribution of light. Fixtures are positioned further away from the structure, casting a broader beam of light. This approach may result in less precise illumination compared to uplighting, creating a more diffused and dramatic glow across the entire structure.
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Stairway and Entryway Illumination: Prioritizing Safety and Aesthetics
Safety is paramount when illuminating stairs and entryways. Inadequate lighting can increase the risk of slips and falls, potentially leading to injuries. Installing lights beneath each stair tread enhances visibility, clearly defining the beginning and end of each step for safe navigation.
Beyond safety, thoughtful stair lighting can create a captivating and inviting ambiance.
Embrace Subtlety: For a sophisticated and romantic effect, consider incorporating warm, glowing lights between the steps, adding a touch of elegance.
Illuminate the Railings: Integrate small, sleek LEDs into the stair railings for an additional layer of soft illumination and a touch of modern sophistication.
Enhance the Approach: Utilize path lights to seamlessly connect walkways to the grand entrance, providing additional illumination and visually unifying the space.
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