|
There
are several lighting applications that can be used to meet
specific lighting needs or to achieve a desired special effect.
GENERAL
or AMBIENT LIGHTING refers to an even overall level of light
provided to make a room or space comfortable and safe for its
intended use. Recessed lighting is very popular as a general
lighting source. Recessed lighting may be in the form of 3"
to 8" diameter "can" type fixtures consisting of
a "trim" and a "housing.” Recessed
"trims" are the visible portion of the recessed light
fixture and are available in hundreds of styles and colors to
control the spread of light, reflect the light and/or match a
particular decor or theme. The "housing" is the actual
enclosure that is installed into the attic and connected to the
power system. Different housings are available for new
construction and remodel construction where attic access is
difficult. Where recessed lighting may be in contact with
building insulation, an "IC" rated housing is required
to prevent a potential fire hazard. In may office environments,
general lighting is provided in the form of luminous fluorescent
ceiling panels.
TASK
LIGHTING typically refers to the higher level of light provided
on work areas such as kitchen islands, countertops and desks.
Additional light is directed to these areas using recessed,
track or pendant fixtures. Concealed under-cabinet lighting is
also frequently used by lighting designers to provide task
illumination without seeing the source (fixture). Fixtures with
either low or line-voltage halogen or xenon bulbs provide a
whiter, warmer light than fluorescent under-cabinet lighting. 5
watt xenon or halogen lamps spaced 6 inches apart are suitable
for most task lighting purposes where the fixture is within
24" of the work surface. Whether recessed, track or
under-cabinet style, low voltage halogen or xenon lighting
fixtures are smaller than line voltage lighting but require a
transformer to change the voltage from 120 volt to 12 volt. The
transformer is included inside many low voltage fixtures but is
also sometimes separate depending on the particular fixture and
style.
ACCENT
LIGHTING. To be effective, accent lighting should be
approximately four times the level of ambient (background) light
in an area. Focusing light on an "accented object" or
"area" draws attention to a picture, vase or other
focal point. Here again. Halogen lighting type fixtures provide
a whiter, brighter appearance than standard incandescent or
fluorescent type fixtures. The selected fixture should be
directional, either a swivel or gimbal type fixture to aim the
light exactly where it is needed. Adjustable surface mount
fixtures, track fixtures and even recessed style fixtures are
available with "aimability" in mind. For a dramatic
museum-type effect, some fixtures can include a focusing lens
for pinpoint accuracy. The "Lighting Illumination" PDF
attached to this file is a good guide for estimating the
illumination or brightness of various bulb types and wattages.
WALL
WASHING is a type of Accent Lighting that creates an area of
uniform illumination that may desirable for a series of photos
or artwork. Wall Washing reduces the texture of the wall
surface. Often the reflected light can create ambient light in
the remainder of the room that is pleasing and restful. WALL
GRAZING is opposite from Wall Washing in that it creates a
dramatic highlight and shadow effect on surfaces such as
draperies, stone or brick. Ceiling light fixtures for Wall
Grazing are placed closer to the wall than Wall Washing in order
to highlight the three-dimensional effect.
DISPLAY
LIGHTING consists of small low voltage lighting fixtures to
illuminate cabinets displaying keepsakes, ornaments, dinnerware
etc. Many under-cabinet fixtures (as described above) are
suitable for display lighting. Small space xenon fixtures used
on a "Mini" or "Linear" track have
unparalleled design flexibility. Tiny fixtures may be spaced
anywhere along the track making it possible to create an even
distribution or highlight task areas. Lamp choices from 3W to
20W allow illumination levels from a subtle glow to a
brilliantly lit area. A "Light Baffle" often serves as
a holder for the track and as a visual shield, concealing the
halogen or xenon bulbs. An innovative use of the baffle is as a
rigid support, such as spanning the edge.
COVE
LIGHTING gives a room a more open appearance by illuminating the
perimeter of the room where the walls meet the ceiling. A large
crown mold or soffit is built around the perimeter of the room
providing a concealed space for a continuous halogen or xenon
track lighting. Cove lighting looks best with a smooth, even
wash of light. Fixtures should be placed at least 4" from
the wall with 6" to 9" being ideal to minimize
scalloping. The ceiling height above the lamps should be not
more than twice the distance from the wall. The lamp spacing and
wattage will depend on distance and brightness level desired.
For a medium light level, a good starting point is with 5-watt
lamps spaced 6" on center, with a track spaced 6" from
the wall and 10" from the ceiling. From this reference
point you can design the light level up or down as desired. A
room with a dark ceiling, or a brightly lit room may need a
higher light level.
Lighting
that is thoughtfully considered can make a world of difference
and will be an improvement that lasts for many years. Many home
improvement stores include sample displays of the various
lighting systems and fixtures mentioned above. As with most
appliances and electronics, there is a wide variety in the
quality of lighting fixtures available. Be sure your purchase is
from reputable well known company with fixtures that are either
UL or ETC listed. There are numerous online retailers that offer
name brand fixtures delivered to your door at very competitive
prices.
By:
Brian Starr
|
Interior-Tip.com
