• • • LIGHTING • • •
LIGHTING THE NIGHT:
SMARTER, SAFER, SUSTAINABLE OUTDOOR DESIGN
functional requirements (such as achieving target lux levels) and environmental objectives, while evaluating different luminaire topologies and control technologies.
The optimal starting point is a clearly defined BY HARVEY LEIGH, TECHNICAL MANAGER, ANSELL LIGHTING
utdoor lighting is an essential component of any development. By enhancing safety, security, visibility and aesthetic impact, well-designed photometric schemes can transform buildings and landscapes after dark. However, with evolving LED technologies, stringent sustainability targets and a vast array of luminaires available, electrical engineers and specifiers must carefully consider photometrics, placement and control strategies to optimise results. Harvey Leigh, Technical Manager at Ansell Lighting, explains more. From commercial façades, car parks and public spaces to residential environments, exterior lighting plays a critical role in the nocturnal experience of the built environment. It enhances the visual appeal of architectural features while mitigating risk through heightened visibility. As with any electrotechnical design project, outdoor lighting schemes require rigorous planning. Specifiers must balance aesthetics with
O 30 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING •MARCH 2026
brief. Establish the specific functional requirement of the illumination. This typically involves breaking the site down into individual zones. For instance, achieving appropriate uniformity and lux levels for safe transit is the main priority for access routes, whereas entrance areas require a balance of visibility and architectural aesthetics. Treating each space independently helps determine the most suitable luminaires, mounting heights and photometric distributions.
Techniques for creating visual Impact
Engineers must then consider the intended visual impact within each zone. Several techniques can be deployed to enhance architectural and landscape features: • Up-lighting: Ground-recessed luminaires project light upwards, creating a dramatic visual impact beneath trees, sculptures, or building façades.
• Down-lighting: Luminaires mounted on elevated structures (such as archways or trees) cast light downwards, providing a softer, natural moonlight effect.
• Wall-washing, Grazing and Silhouetting: Grazing light across masonry emphasises surface relief and texture, while backlighting features creates high-contrast silhouettes. Specifying these effects requires precise calculation of mounting heights, beam angles, luminaire spacing and offset distances.
Mitigating obtrusive light should be a primary consideration. Poorly directed or excessively bright luminaires contribute to sky glow, glare and light trespass. Adhering to best practice placement guidelines ensures lighting is targeted, useful and maintained at appropriate levels. To meet light pollution targets, manufacturers increasingly supply outdoor luminaires that are DarkSky Approved. These feature advanced optics and stringent glare control (often boasting a zero Upward Light Output Ratio, or ULOR) designed specifically to eliminate unwanted light spill. These should be specified wherever possible.
Luminaire selection and placement
Once the design parameters are established, designers can proceed to product selection. While form factors vary by architectural style, the functional requirement dictates the luminaire topology:
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