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Façade Lighting – Adding Depth and Character to Building Design

By: Architect Sumit Dhawan, Cityspace '82 Architects

THE ILLUMINATI Gurugram, India

Cityspace’ 82 Architects – a well-known residential architecture firm, has worked on various façade projects incorporating exceptional lighting designs. The Illuminati, one of their remarkable projects, includes sustainable façade lighting designs. It is designed to construct a residence with robust attributes and voluminous light-filled living spaces. The house is entirely based on the concept of zero maintenance. The most exceptional feature of this façade design is the use of fiber-optics integrated into the front façade, which gives it a glistening effect of twinkling stars with different intensities.

Furthermore, this residence is the first in India to install fibre optic lighting on the façade. The house reveals a scene in which, on the days of festivals or parties, the entire house can be lit with planter lights, fibre optics, and lights from art installations via a single control. There are specialised products in the market that are made for façade lighting, highlighting and producing visual impact. A professional outdoor lighting solution system that illuminates the façades creates dramatic effects that can improve a building’s nighttime aesthetics.

It adds a glamorous finishing touch to the building while complementing its charm. Furthermore, façade lighting is not rocket science but requires a focused and sensitive approach to the intent. The right design intent must be kept in mind so that one can pick the appropriate lighting fixtures. With a little practice and experimentation, a revolutionary lighting scheme can be delineated.

There is a well-known proverb, “First impression is the last impression”. The emotions evoked at first glance are always critical; the same goes for a building design. The façade design of a building is significant in communicating the essence of the overall design. Every building expresses its personality in daylight, but it all fades into darkness after night falls. The only way to bring it to life at night is to envelop the façade with appropriate lighting.

ASPECTS DEFINING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FAÇADE LIGHTING

The relevance of façade lighting is multifaceted. It is easier to plan a façade lighting scheme and make implementation by understanding how it can benefit the building. Here are the three factors that outline the significance of architectural façade lighting in this context.

AESTHETIC

We are all familiar that whenever we see something exquisite, it evokes a psychological response in us. A moment becomes memorable when there are sentiments discerned. The purpose of façade design is to give the viewer a complete look and feel of the building when they look at it. It makes no difference if it is for the inhabitants, users, or bystanders passing by. A good lighting scheme can contribute to accomplishing a distinctive façade design making it a focal point to draw the attention of the people.

FUNCTION

Another reason for good architectural façade lighting is functionality. The primary function of lights is to assist us in viewing. Accidents are less likely to occur when adequate lighting is sourced from a nearby building. Passers-by feel safer as they can get a clearer vision of the road ahead as well as the vicinity. Furthermore, lights can restrain trespassers from coming near the structure. Hence, a well-functioning lighting design ensures that the user’s safety and protection remain intact.

SUSTAINABILITY

Unlike the first two, this will be determined by the typology of lighting fixtures used. While working on the façade lighting, it is crucial to ensure that the fixtures and elements are eco-friendly. This will aid in making the structure more energy efficient.