The Rise of Lighting in Commercial Interiors
The world of commercial interiors is evolving, and lighting is finally taking center stage. At NeoCon, a renowned industry event, a new initiative called Illuminate has sparked a much-needed conversation about the role of lighting in shaping our spaces.
What makes this particularly intriguing is the shift in perspective. For years, lighting has been a secondary consideration, often an afterthought in the grand scheme of commercial design. But Illuminate challenges this notion, arguing that lighting is an integral part of the architectural narrative.
Lighting as an Architectural Argument
The idea that light belongs in the same league as materials, furnishings, and spatial design is a powerful one. Sohana Arni, a lighting strategist, boldly stated that lighting influences how people interact with and experience a space. This is a fundamental shift from merely considering lighting as a functional necessity to recognizing its profound impact on human behavior and well-being.
The Practicality of Early Lighting Decisions
One of the key takeaways from the event was the emphasis on the timing of lighting decisions. The panel discussion highlighted the practical challenges of incorporating lighting late in a project. Rebecca Keehner, an interior designer, introduced the concept of a design triad, emphasizing the collaboration between interior designers, lighting designers, and electrical engineers. This collaboration, when done right, ensures technical excellence and a seamless design execution.
However, what many people don't realize is that this collaboration is often a delicate dance. Without a dedicated lighting designer, the process can become a game of catch-up, with inefficiencies lurking in the shadows. Avi Mor, a lighting expert, bluntly pointed out that someone is always making lighting decisions, and it's crucial to ensure they're made with the same attention as other design aspects.
Lighting Beyond Illumination
The event also shed light on a fascinating aspect of lighting design: its impact on wellness. Lisa Reed, a lighting designer, introduced a unique perspective by focusing on the emotional experience of a space. She argued that good lighting isn't just about visibility but about creating an ambiance that makes people feel at ease. This is a far cry from the traditional metrics of foot candles and uniformity ratios.
A detail that I find especially captivating is the consideration of imperceptible flicker. It's a subtle yet powerful element that can significantly affect how people perceive a space. This level of detail demonstrates the depth of thought that goes into creating truly exceptional lighting designs.
The Economic Impact of Lighting
Jenny West, a workplace strategist, brought a fresh perspective by connecting lighting to neurodiversity. She emphasized the comfort that tunable colored lighting can provide for neurodivergent individuals, a perspective often overlooked in design discussions. This is where lighting design transcends aesthetics and becomes a tool for creating inclusive and supportive environments.
Furthermore, the economic implications of lighting were brought to the forefront. West and Caitlin Mulligan, a manufacturer's representative, highlighted how good lighting can increase the value of a space, whether it's a multifamily building or an office. This is a powerful argument for developers and building owners, as it directly links lighting design to tangible financial benefits.
Back to Basics: The Fundamentals of Wellness Lighting
Interestingly, the panel took a pragmatic approach to wellness lighting. Instead of focusing on trendy concepts like circadian lighting, they emphasized the basics: glare, flicker, personal control, and color consistency. This grounded perspective is a refreshing change, offering practical insights for commercial practitioners.
Rebecca Keehner raised a crucial point about the post-project maintenance of lighting designs. Often overlooked, the long-term care of lighting installations can make or break the intended design impact. This is where the role of the lighting designer extends beyond the initial design phase, emphasizing the importance of communication and education.
Closing the Gap
The event at NeoCon illuminated a significant gap in the industry. While the audience consisted of informed interior designers, many had not worked with lighting specialists on recent projects. This disconnect highlights the need for better integration of lighting design into the commercial interiors process.
Personally, I believe that initiatives like Illuminate are a step towards closing this gap. By elevating the conversation around lighting, we can encourage collaboration and ensure that lighting design receives the attention it deserves. In the end, it's about creating spaces that not only look good but also enhance the well-being and productivity of those who inhabit them.
