General Lighting: Techniques

Lighting techniques are a way to help highlight a specific object/objects or area that is of importance. Specific fixtures and luminaries are important when creating a lighting technique, you want to set up a lighting system design so that it will help fit your needs in a particular space.

General Lighting

Is a technique that either uses one luminary group and/or a lighting system that provides the overall lighting in a space. It is designed to eliminate any the additional support of other lighting techniques and layers. It is a single lighting technique that provides illumination for office spaces, stores, and classrooms. Though it is inexpensive it will lack aesthetic value.

Down-lighting

This technique provides a light source that illuminates below the horizontal surface. A light source is directed downward from the ceiling or below the luminary itself. Some lighting fixtures that create down lighting are recessed down lights, wall sconces, pendants, adjustable down lights, track and canopy mono-points.

Uplighting

This is a type of illumination that bounces off a surface (usually the ceiling) to provide a light source toward the space below. Some of the lighting fixtures that create up lighting are wall and portable torchieres, sconces, and some chandeliers.

Ceilings that are white or off-white tend to be a useful source for uplighting. Ceilings and spaces darker in color will be inefficient for this particular technique. The distance from the fixture and the ceiling should be considered. Uplighting can be accomplished for up to four suspension lengths.

Task Lighting

This is a technique that provides illumination to a specific area or surface at which a task is occurring. Task lighting techniques can be used in addition to ambient/general lighting as well. Residential and commercial spaces such as offices usually use this technique to illuminate specific areas. Examples of such areas are: desks, counter spaces, under cabinets, home offices, and any other surface or area where a task is taking place.

Types of Luminaries used:

• Table Lamps
• Floor Lamps
• Desk Lamps
• Drafting Lamps
• Under Cabinet
• Shelf Lights
• Pendants and Recessed Down lights could also be used

• Linear fixtures/lights help reduce shadows and glare
• Lighting fixtures with an arm can help focus illumination in a concentrated area

Accent Lighting

A lighting technique that is used for a focal point or focal area. It helps draw attention to an area or object. Accent lighting is a great way to help highlight artwork, architectural features in/out of your home, vegetation, pathways, patios, etc.

Utility Lighting

This is a particular lighting technique that visually aids you while accomplishing tasks in the garage, storage room, mud room, and basement. Utility lighting is a simple way to light up these areas without the aesthetic factor. Some common light fixtures are wraparound fluorescent, fluorescent strip and ceiling drums (usually for closets). Keep these light fixtures simple, remember that function is more important in these types of closed off areas not beauty.