Feature The Importance Of Functional Lighting
Function was a vital consideration in the lighting design, it needed to serve its fundamental purposes, as well as be aesthetically pleasing and ambient. The aim was to create a visually comfortable environment for students and staff whilst providing flexibility for the users to create their own lighting scenes for various teaching and recreational functions. Moreover, appropriate lighting levels, colour temperatures and distribution reduce eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, thereby enhancing overall visual comfort which were all objectives on this project.
Aesthetic Appeal Is Key
Aesthetic design was the next deliberation, focusing on the impact lighting will have on occupants’ mood. Thoughtful lighting choices, such as accent lighting, decorative fixtures and dynamic lighting scenes can enhance the architectural features, create focal points and set the desired mood and atmosphere within different areas of the building. Well-designed lighting can positively influence student wellbeing; therefore, a lighting scheme was used that incorporated colour rendering and provided appropriate lighting to contribute to a
positive and uplifting atmosphere,
reducing stress levels and promoting a sense of comfort. Additionally, dynamic lighting systems have been shown to improve alertness, productivity and mood were all ambitions for the space.
Incorporating Energy Efficient Lighting
Finally, in the current era of green building and sustainability, the aspect of energy efficiency holds significant importance. As well as engaging and efficient lighting
layout, creating a captivating arrangement
that prioritises energy efficiency was an objective. By incorporating energy-efficient lighting technologies and creating reliable solutions, energy consumption can be minimised, in addition to reducing operational cost and contributing to sustainability goals. On this project, LEDs were chosen instead of fluorescent lighting to reduce wasted light due to the directional nature of LEDs. Energy-efficient operational
costs but also
lighting not only reduces aligns
with sustainable
practices, reinforcing a positive environmental impact that can further enhance well-being.
Building User Feedback
Commenting on the newly refurbished Prince Edward Hall, Thomas Baker a senior lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire commented, “Our newly refurbished teaching space in Prince Edward Hall has transformed the type of learning we can conduct in that space. We have moved to a more collaborative and experiential type learning and the newly refurbished Prince Edward Hall facilitates that beautifully. Seeing it for the first time, visitors and students have been truly impressed, and the modern sleek interior decorating has really made an impression. The lighting is especially striking and the strip lighting which mimics the layout of a circuit board not only looks great but echoes the engineering activities happening below”.
In summary, effective lighting design in buildings can have a profound impact on occupant wellbeing by providing visual comfort, improving productivity, enhancing mood, optimising task performance, and promoting energy efficiency. By prioritising and investing in thoughtful lighting design, facilities managers can create a healthy, engaging, and productive work environment for their building users.
fmuk 15
©
Dan Bridge
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