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

Figure 4.2.1 Intensity, color, and texture of light can greatly affect the mood of a space.
Figure 4.2.2 Intensity, color, and texture of light can greatly affect the mood of a space.
LAYER 3: LIGHTING TO ACCENT OBJECTS
The third layer we tackle is arguably the most intuitive and readily-recognized. We are simply applying light to already-interesting objects and surfaces solely for the purpose of making those things more noticeable. The phototropic nature of humans can be used to draw human movement, but it is also effective on a small scale by drawing visual attention. By placing discreet shapes of light onto the objects in our space, we are creating a logic that will
dictate how a viewer’s eye travels over the visual landscape of a single space.
We can dictate a subconscious visual path from an accented wall mural, to a crystal chandelier, to a perfectly-appointed dining table. This organization of visual interest encourages a visitor to experience the environment in a specific order, taking time to interact with the design; a sort of choreography on a small scale.
When we accent the objects in our space, we are also making decisions
about what type of light is appropriate for that object. This requires an understanding of the materials used in our design and whether they respond better to particular intensities, colors and textures of accenting light. If we are interested in revealing texture, we want to use more directional light at steeper angles. If we want to conceal texture, we use more diffuse sources that scatter light in many directions. We should even be thinking of the shape of the light that we are casting onto an object.
When we speak of accenting objects to create visual interest and logic, we
are also speaking about the decorative light sources that we use to add focus and sparkle to a space. Decorative pendants and wall sconces can serve as points of interest on their own.
The placement of light to accent objects is another way we focus light
onto specific surfaces and reduce the amount of light needed to create visual clarity and function in our design.