The effective use of lighting varies depending on building type, and it significantly impacts the overall ambiance of a space.
Lighting Terminology: A basic understanding of terminology used in lighting design, such as lumens, watts, foot candles, color temperature, etc.
Lighting Physics: A comprehension of the concepts and principles of the physics of light, including the properties of light, how it behaves, and how it interacts with various surfaces and materials.
Lighting Techniques: An exploration of various lighting techniques, such as ambient lighting, task lighting, accent lighting, moonlighting, grazing, spotlighting, etc., and how to use them effectively.
Lighting Design Principles: An understanding of the fundamental principles of lighting design, including color rendering, contrast, uniformity, balance, visual hierarchy, etc.
Lighting Calculations: An in-depth knowledge of lighting calculations, such as the calculation of illuminance levels, lighting power density, and the use of photometric data to determine the distribution of light in a space.
Lighting Control Systems: An understanding of how to control the lighting in a space, including the use of dimmers, timers, sensors, and other control systems for efficient energy use and user comfort.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: An awareness of sustainable lighting practices and the integration of energy-efficient lighting into a design that reduces energy consumption and carbon footprint.
Lighting Fixtures: A knowledge of the different types of lighting fixtures, such as recessed, pendant, wall-mounted, floor lamps, track lighting, etc., and how to choose the appropriate fixture for a particular application.
Lighting Design Applications: An overview of the application of lighting design in various contexts, such as residential, commercial, institutional, cultural, and outdoor lighting design.
Lighting Design Software: An introduction to software tools and applications for lighting design, such as AGi32, Dialux, and Relux, to design, analyze, and simulate lighting in a space.
General or Ambient Lighting: This is the base layer of illumination that lights up the entire space, typically by using fixtures installed on the ceiling, such as recessed cans, chandeliers, or track lights.
Task Lighting: This type of lighting is designed to provide illumination for specific activities such as desk work, cooking, reading, or putting on makeup. Examples include table lamps, under-cabinet lights, and vanity fixtures.
Accent Lighting: This lighting highlights a particular object, area or feature in a space, such as a piece of art, sculpture, or architectural detail. It can be achieved by using wall sconces, floodlights, or directional spotlights.
Decorative Lighting: This type of lighting is used purely for aesthetic purposes, often serving as a focal point itself. It can take the form of stylish pendant lights, ornamental chandeliers, or decorative sconces.
Cove Lighting: This lighting creates a soft glow by concealing the fixtures in a recessed area, such as a ledge or a crown molding. It is often used to create ambient lighting around the perimeter of a room.
Recessed Lighting: This type of lighting is installed in a ceiling or wall cavity, often in a grid pattern, to provide even illumination without visible fixtures. It is typically used in modern or minimalist interiors.
Up Lighting: This lighting illuminates a space from the ground up, producing a dramatic effect. It can be achieved by installing lights at the base of a wall, in the floor, or on the skirting boards.
Down Lighting: This type of lighting directs the light downwards, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere. It is often used in living rooms, dining rooms, or bedrooms, where people tend to relax.
Outdoor Lighting: This type of lighting is designed to illuminate the exterior of buildings or landscapes, providing safety, security, and ambiance. It can take the form of floodlights, path lights, or façade lighting.
Stage Lighting: This type of lighting is used in theatrical productions, concerts, or events, to create mood, highlight performers, and set the stage. Stage lighting includes spotlights, floodlights, moving lights, and color-changing fixtures.