Enlightened Harmony: Integrating Artificial And Natural Light For A Building
Posted on: 18 August 2023
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of interior design, as it affects not only the aesthetics but also the occupants' comfort, health, and well-being. Lighting control designers are professionals who plan and implement lighting systems that optimize the use of natural and artificial light sources, creating personalized environments that suit the needs and preferences of the users.
Natural Light Is Always Important
Natural light positively affects the human body and mind, such as:
- Regulating the circadian rhythm
- Improving mood
- Enhancing productivity
- Reducing eye strain
However, natural light is not always available or sufficient, especially in densely populated urban areas, where buildings may block or reflect sunlight.
Moreover, natural light varies throughout the day and the year, depending on the location, season, weather, and time of day. As a result, lighting control designers must consider balancing natural light with artificial light sources, such as lamps, fixtures, and LEDs.
Designing Natural and Artificial Light to Work Together
Artificial light can supplement or replace natural light, providing consistent and controllable illumination for different tasks and activities. However, artificial light also has some drawbacks, such as:
- Consuming energy
- Generating heat
- Affecting the color perception of objects
Therefore, lighting control designers need to choose artificial light sources that are appropriate for the function and mood of each space, as well as compatible with natural light conditions.
Control Natural Light Through Effective Shading Systems
Shading devices can include blinds, curtains, shutters, louvers, and awnings. They can regulate the amount and direction of natural light that enters a building through windows or skylights. Shading can also reduce glare, heat gain, and UV radiation from sunlight.
As a result, you will improve the occupants' visual comfort and thermal comfort. Shading can be manual or automated, depending on the preference and budget of the users. Automated shading systems can be programmed to adjust according to the time of day, the season, or the weather conditions.
Controlling Artificial Lights
Another tool that lighting control designers use to balance natural and artificial light is dimming. Dimming devices, such as switches or sensors, can control artificial light sources' intensity and color temperature, matching them with the natural light levels.
Dimming can also create different atmospheres and moods for different occasions or purposes. Dimming can be manual or automated as well. Automated dimming systems can be integrated with shading systems or other smart devices to create a seamless lighting experience. Lighting control designers are experts who can help achieve this balance by applying their knowledge and skills in lighting design.
Contact a local lighting control designer to learn more.
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