Residential lighting elevates aesthetics and influences mood while ensuring safety and functionality. Smart home lighting systems offer convenience and energy efficiency.
Using data from multiple databases, we systematically searched for studies on the relationship between lighting in homes and health outcomes. Our findings synthesize the existing evidence. Taking lighting into account earlier in the design process is vital to ensure that it complements the architecture and interiors.
Lighting Control Systems
Lighting control systems are the heart of a home or commercial space’s lighting system, providing precise ambiance and functionality. These intelligent, customizable systems offer a wide range of capabilities including occupancy sensing, daylight harvesting, scheduling, and remote access via mobile devices or centralized control panels.
When evaluating a lighting control system, it’s important to consider the specific needs of each space, as well as overall occupant comfort and efficiency goals. For example, lighting control systems can automatically adjust illumination levels based on occupancy or natural sunlight, which maximizes energy efficiency by turning lights ON when they’re needed and OFF when they aren’t.
The newest lighting controls also have the potential to improve the human experience by automating light settings to better align with our body’s natural circadian rhythms. This “human-centric” approach to lighting allows for more comfortable user experiences while reducing energy usage.
Cost is another major factor to consider, and it’s important to understand the full scope of upfront expenses, maintenance costs, and potential energy savings. For instance, many wireless systems eliminate the need for extensive wiring, which reduces both material and installation costs. Additionally, some smart home systems allow homeowners to activate their lights remotely, further reducing costs and energy consumption.
Circuitry
Whether you’re creating a cozy living room atmosphere or highlighting artwork, lighting circuits play a crucial role in home design. They provide energy efficiency, safety, and comfort. To properly wire a lighting circuit, you must consider the space, type of fixtures and switches, and their layout.
Most modern residential properties use a lighting circuit separate from the power ring main. These circuits are typically run from the consumer unit via a junction box or loop-in ceiling rose. In the case of a multi-storey house, a single lighting circuit can supply power to lights on all floors.
Switches are the primary control mechanism for a lighting circuit. They range from simple element switches that open and close a circuit to electronic devices that respond to signals from sensors. Some switches are designed to be operated manually while others may be controlled remotely. Regardless of the type of switch used, they must adhere to building codes to ensure safety and compliance.
In addition to switching a light on and off, switches can also adjust its intensity. These switches are known as dimmer switches. The way these switches operate depends on how they are connected to a light fixture and the type of switch being used. Some dimmer switches are built to operate with two conductors; one that brings power to the switch and another that carries unswitched power to the light. This is required for three-way lighting switches that enable light to be switched on from two different locations.
Lighting Types
Residential lighting is highly personal and often designed to reflect the style and needs of the homeowners. In contrast, commercial spaces are driven by functionality and the need to showcase products and brands. Both types require careful planning to meet the unique goals of each space.
There are six basic home lighting types: ambient, ceiling-mounted, task, dining, outdoor, and decorative. Ambient lighting provides overall illumination, and it can include recessed lights, chandeliers, or pendant lights. Ceiling-mounted fixtures are typically positioned closer to the ceiling to spread light evenly and wash a room in a soft glow.
Task lighting brightens specific areas to enable reading, working, or other activities such as cooking and cleaning. It typically requires a higher wattage and should be combined with adequate ambient lighting to avoid eye strain. Examples of this type of lighting include desk lamps, bathroom vanity lights, and mirror lighting.
Accent lighting adds depth and visual interest to a room. It can highlight architectural features or focal points like a fireplace, woodwork, a beautiful shelf, or artwork. It can also draw attention to a plant, tree, or other landscape feature. Track lights, directional can lights, and spotlights are common accent options.