Luminaire designs

Lighting the vertical canvas

Harshita Shetty of Nulty analyses the nuances and challenges of façade lighting, highlighting how it is important to balance aesthetics and function, prioritising energy efficiency. She also highlights how façade cleaning is often overlooked in the context of building maintenance. Façade lighting is a complex art form that has evolved beyond the days of providing a money-shot vision to distinguish a structure from the metropolis. The building’s purpose is the initial point for any high-rise façade concept, as it influences everything from the architecture, materials, and character of the structure to the lighting. When a building is primarily glazed, such as a hotel or residential complex, the challenge is integrating light fixtures into a glass façade. However, flooding the façade with light might produce undesired light bleed into the rooms or homes, which calls for working to reduce this by investigating other solutions, such as incorporating the light fittings into the façade mullions. Another element to consider is the building’s location. A high-rise building in a prominent city location necessitates a comprehensive lighting solution that celebrates the entire structure. Illuminating towering structures in densely populated areas can be challenging, as sightlines are often constrained due to people’s tendency to interact closely with the building. To reduce energy usage, lighting the crown and lower floors can be an option, leaving the middle section relatively dark. These buildings are frequently connected to the public domain, which exacerbates the challenge of creating a lighting backdrop that complements their surroundings. Layers of light can be used to highlight the building’s individuality while directing visitors to warm, welcoming entry points. Nulty India_ACE While the “why” and “where” determine the façade lighting response, the “how” is often missing, especially in terms of how the lighting operates when the high-rise is inspected and maintained. The incorporation of the Building Maintenance Unit (BMU), a permanent system for façade cleaning and inspection, is an often-overlooked feature. Mapping the BMU’s paths and the reach of its cantilevered arm is critical, as luminaires must be accessible for cleaning while remaining out of the way of the BMU. Recessed luminaires are an effective option in these areas, providing a clean, unobstructed finish that allows the BMU to function correctly. Equally crucial is the compatibility of these luminaires with the building’s climate. Tall buildings in tropical locations, such as India, are subjected to dust storms during the pre-monsoon months and severe, continuous rainfall throughout the rainy season. Repeated exposure to dust can damage a luminaire’s optical system and cause undesirable fluctuations in colour temperature. Fittings should be installed in a location that is easily accessible, well-ventilated, and protected to facilitate maintenance or replacement. Rainwater can also collect on a light fitting if sufficient drainage is not provided, potentially causing corrosion or electrical issues. To avoid moisture retention, specify IP-rated fixtures with weep holes. Illuminating a tall building is a massive undertaking. It is essential to comprehend every aspect of light, encompassing geographical context, architectural intent, structural engineering, luminaire arrangement, and fixture compatibility. Cross-disciplinary teamwork is the only way to...