The architecture of light: architectural lighting design concepts and techniques. A textbook of procedures and practices for the architect, interior designer and lighting designer pdfdrive com

Layout 1 Lighting Open Office Space

Open office spaces often suffer under the uniform treatment of task light directed downward. The monotony of the single light texture can cause eye strain and mental fatigue. The inclusion of multiple light textures can improve the long- term comfort of such spaces. Lighting the perimeter of open office spaces also works wonders to create a space that feels bright and lively. Office lighting systems must also be designed to minimize visible lamps and glare that can interfere with computer screens and sensitive tasks. Work spaces that are
computer-focused may even benefit from a lower overall ambient light level to avoid a hazy reflection in the screens. Spaces that are more concerned with diversity of tasks and interaction with documents and graphic materials benefit from changeable lighting effects and emphasis on the color-rendering capabilities of the light sources. Integrating daylight harvesting adds an additional level of complexity to the situation.
Common Features

• Linear fluorescent pendants distribute light up onto the ceiling and downward. The combination of textures avoids an overly diffuse experience and eliminates visibility of bare lamps. The luminaires are mounted 18” to 24” from the ceiling to allow light to spread evenly over the ceiling plane.
• Recessed fluorescent wall wash luminaires mounted 18” to 24” from

the wall create a bright vertical surface to enhance the perception of brightness in the space and define the perimeter

• Localized fluorescent or halogen under cabinet task luminaires at each

work station provide a directional source to punch thought the haze of the general office-wide light. The task light can also be selected to provide improved color rendering. These luminaires are independently controlled by each workspace occupant.

• 2’ × 2’ or 2’ × 4’ acoustical ceiling tiles are a common finish in

commercial spaces. These tiles often restrict the layout or types of luminaires that can be used in the space. An indirect lighting system must consider the reflectance of these ceiling tiles.