Lighting Fundamentals Quiz

Lighting Concepts

• Luminance is the luminous intensity of a surface in a given direction, per unit of projected area of the surface.
• Illuminance is the density of luminous flux striking a surface.
• Lumen output (LM) is generally based on the number of lumens initially output by each lamp.
• Light loss factor (LLF) is the product of all considered factors that contribute to a lighting installation's reduced light output over a period of time.

Design Principles

• Architectural lighting design is a blend of science and art, requiring a thorough evaluation of existing installations and the application of scientific principles in creating new designs.
• The main goals of designing an aesthetically pleasing architectural lighting system are to provide sufficient quantity, quality, and balance of light.

Lighting Types

• Ambient lighting is the most essential form of lighting, providing the basic background of light for almost every room, and can come from sources such as fluorescent, halogen, and incandescent.
• Task or local lighting illuminates a specific visual function, making work easier on the eyes, and focuses light in a particular direction or area without casting glare.
• Accent lighting adds drama and emphasizes a particular object or area, and can be achieved using low voltage halogen spotlights, track lighting, or picture lights.
• Decorative lighting aesthetically adds interest to the space by blending with other types of lighting to give an overall feel.

Design Considerations for Specific Spaces

Entrances

• The entrance or foyer is the transitional space from public to private and exterior to interior, and offers the first impression of a home or building.
• Lighting should draw attention to the building entry.

Offices/Studies

• Reading and writing require quality lighting that limits eye fatigue caused by glare.
• This space can take advantage of a beautiful vista out the window and good natural ambient light daylight.

Restrooms/Bathrooms

• The best light washes the face from all directions, softening shadows.
• There should be sufficient light to see detail for grooming but not so much to cause glare and discomfort.

Dining Spaces

• No specific design considerations mentioned.

Test your knowledge of lighting concepts such as luminance, illuminance, lumen output, and light loss factor. Learn how these principles apply to design and lighting systems.