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IMPORTANCE OF LIGHT IN DESIGNED SPACES

  • Writer: abstractdesignatel
    abstractdesignatel
  • Nov 19
  • 2 min read
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Lighting is not just a functional necessity in architecture and interior design — it is a powerful tool that shapes perception, influences mood, and enhances the usability of a space. Whether natural or artificial, light affects how we interact with our surroundings and plays a crucial role in how design is experienced.


1. Defining the Mood and Atmosphere

Lighting can completely transform the ambiance of a space. A warm, soft light invites relaxation in residential settings, while bright, cool light boosts alertness and productivity in offices or classrooms. As Le Corbusier said, “Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light.” Light gives dimension to form and texture, adding depth and emotional resonance to built environments.


2. Enhancing Functionality and Spatial Clarity

Thoughtful lighting ensures that a space performs its intended function effectively. Task lighting in kitchens, workspaces, or reading areas improves precision and safety, while ambient lighting provides general illumination for navigation and comfort. Accent lighting helps in wayfinding and highlights key architectural or decorative elements.


3. Impact on Health and Wellbeing

Daylight exposure regulates our circadian rhythms, directly impacting sleep cycles, energy levels, and mental health. According to research by the Lighting Research Center (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute), people working in spaces with abundant natural light experience lower stress and higher productivity. Designing with daylight — through orientation, window placements, or skylights — is a sustainable and human-centric approach.


4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Strategic lighting design reduces energy consumption. Using LED lights, sensors, and smart controls can dramatically lower electricity use. Moreover, incorporating daylight reduces dependence on artificial sources, aligning with green building practices like LEED and WELL standards.


5. Aesthetic and Narrative Tool

Lighting can be used creatively to tell a story — casting shadows, emphasizing materials, or drawing focus to specific elements. In museums, galleries, or restaurants, it becomes a choreographer of experience, subtly guiding the viewer’s eye and emotions. In conclusion, light is not just about visibility — it’s about experience. In well-designed spaces, lighting is never an afterthought but an integral part of the design narrative.


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