Architectural up and down lighting
Architectural up and down lighting is directional lighting that is becoming increasingly popular for both interior and exterior spaces. By directing the light with contemporary up and down lighting fixtures, an interior designer can create the required mood. Architectural up and down lighting is also used for practical applications which we will explore further.
The increasing popularity of architectural up and down lighting
The increasing popularity of architectural up and down lighting is due to its versatility as much as its aesthetic effect. Up lighting and down lighting have different uses and benefits. Combined, they create stunning and practical results for both interior design and outdoor spaces.
For interior design, down lighting is perfect for task lighting. This might be at desks, over chairs or in kitchens. Architectural down lighting is also used to highlight features in a room. On walls, down lights create directional light that is subtle but effective in creating mood and ambiance.
In exterior spaces, architectural down lights are becoming increasingly used for safety and security lighting on walkways and doors.
Architectural up lighting is used for interior accent lighting. Found in wall sconces particularly in halls, bathrooms and kitchens, up lighting is used to illuminate space when full lighting isn’t required. In exterior spaces, up lighting is used on walkways and around buildings for both accent lighting, and safety and security.
How to design lighting schemes with up and down lighting
The key to designing lighting schemes with up and down lighting is to create layered light. To get a balanced effect of up and down lighting in a room there needs to be a good mix of both for ambient lighting, task lighting and accent lighting. This creates that layered effect which is calming to the eye, rather than overbearing.
To decide what goes where, ask yourself some basic questions:
– What will the room be used for?
– Which features do you want to highlight?
– Who will be using the room and what design will be comfortable for them?
– What time of day will the room be used most?
– How much natural light does the room get and from which direction?
The answers to those questions will determine which up lights and down lights are used to create the lighting scheme.
Architectural up and down wall lighting
At Detail Lighting we supply various architectural up and down wall lighting products.
The Dryas wall light is both an up light and down light in one. Made of die cast aluminium and tempered glass, this contemporary anti-glare wall light is available in white or black.
Another popular option is the Tube IP54, a round wall mounted LED fixture that provides discreet, elegant up and down lighting. Crafted from die cast aluminium and finished in a grey anthracite (shown) and other RAL options.
To highlight a favourite picture, the Visio Large in dark bronze is wall or frame mounted with dimmable controls.
Can we help?
For a no-obligation chat about your architectural lighting designs, please contact us using our online form, by email at sales@detaillighting.co.uk, or by calling 01908 613256.
If you require lighting schemes for your project
get in touch with our team