As I reflect on my journey in lighting design, I'm reminded of how often the focus has been placed solely on achieving the correct lux levels. While this technical aspect is essential, it only scratches the surface of what lighting can achieve.
ux levels represent the measurement of light intensity on a given surface, crucial for creating environments that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Expressed in lux (lx), this unit indicates how much luminous flux, measured in lumens, illuminates a square meter of space.
Whether designing for residential, commercial or public areas, understanding and manipulating lux levels allows designers to enhance visual appeal and meet necessary lighting standards.
However, lighting design transcends lux levels, allowing us to craft environments rich in emotion and experience. It’s an art form that has the power to create bespoke atmospheres and transform spaces in ways that go far beyond simple functionality.
he vast majority who speak with us think our job is to achieve lighting levels. However, lux levels alone can never determine how bright a space truly feels.
I once had a project where the lighting levels were over 1000 lx, but the client still found the space dark. This was because the uniformity was 0.1, meaning there were many dark and bright spots rather than a uniformly lit space. While technically correct, the lighting intent was not achieved.
Another project which comes to mind was for a hotel where the lighting design had been very well received and the client was fully onboard. However, as the project moved forward, budget constraints became part oft he discussion and we had to go down the value engineering route. We looked at every detail, every light source to find potential savings without compromising the integrity of our design.
In one meeting, an engineer proposed a solution that left me practically speechless. "To achieve the required lux level," he said, "we only need one downlight here instead of the five you specified."
I thought, well, yes, one downlight would technically meet the lighting level, but at what cost to the soul of the space!?
Thinking about this space under one clinical light source, it was so apparent that the richness of the design, the subtle interplay of shadows, the warmth and welcoming ambience, all of it would be lost. The space would be reduced to just functionality, stripped of its intended mood and character.
As I’ve said before, lighting is not just about achieving lux levels, it's about crafting an experience, capturing the story and evoking that through light.
For me, one of the most fascinating aspects of lighting design is the interplay between light and darkness. You may have heard me reference this before, but it’s such a key aspect that I’d like to focus on it in more detail.
Darkness is not the absence of light. Darkness adds depth, contrast and texture to a space. It can shape the perception of a room and guide the eye, creating a sense of dimension.
In a cosy restaurant, the soft shadows cast by carefully placed fixtures can create a romantic and intimate dining experience. The gentle dance of light and dark makes the space feel inviting and comfortable, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Shadows soften the edges of the room, drawing attention to focal points and creating a layered, multidimensional environment. This subtle interplay adds a layer of visual interest and complexity, transforming the ambience.
In outdoor spaces, the interplay of light and dark can transform a garden or patio into a magical night time retreat. By strategically placing lights to cast long, soft shadows of plants and trees, the space takes on a new life after dark. The shadows create a dynamic, ever-changing landscape that invites exploration and relaxation.
reating emotional landscapes has always been at the core of my work. By thoughtfully integrating shadows, we add layers of depth and dimension, transforming the space into a true escape from the outside world. This emotional resonance is achieved through careful design, not just correct lux levels.
The impact of lighting extends far beyond its functional role. It can change the perception of space, making small rooms feel larger and expansive areas more intimate. By controlling light, we can alter the mood and energy of a room.
My passion for lighting design was ignited by the profound effects light can have on a space.
Early in my career, I realised that lighting is about shaping how we feel within a space. This realisation has guided my approach ever since. I see lighting as a storyteller, capable of evoking a wide range of emotions through the creative use of light and shadow.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that while achieving the correct lux levels is a fundamental aspect of lighting design, it’s far from the whole story. This technical metric alone can never capture the essence of what makes a space truly feel alive.
In every project, I use light as a means of expression that goes beyond just lux levels to create emotionally engaging spaces. And while lux levels are important, the true soul of lighting lies in its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
