132 Lighting Systems

Lighting Systems

A lighting system is the arrangement, or system, of lights and is essential to the design and functionality of buildings. 

Many people expect one source of light to fulfil all their lighting needs. It is important not to rush into making a selection before you have fully understood the requirements of the lighting system and the space it will operate in. Rushing in can result in poor overall results.

Each of the three types of lighting have a specific function that fulfils specific needs:

Ambient Lighting 

Ambient lighting is used to illuminate a space in its entirety. Ambient lighting provides uniform illumination in a space, independent of any other lighting sources. Its purpose is to provide safe and easy access to the space, as well as to give an overview of the area. To illuminate as much space as possible, ambient light bounces off walls.

Surface mounted lighting 

Surface mounted lighting is a type of ambient lighting. A surface mounted light is placed on a flat surface such as a ceiling (ceiling mount) and protrudes from the surface. Surface mount lighting in an industrial setting can either be attached using a chain or static fixture. 

These lights come in many shapes and sizes and are ideal for situations where there is not much space between the ceiling structure and the drop-down ceiling, or when the ceiling is exposed.

Task Lighting 

Task lighting is used to illuminate the tasks that a person does in a space, such as reading, cooking or computer work. These types of tasks require brighter lighting in a smaller area, or a focal point. It is important to avoid making these lights too harsh as they can cast shadows. 

Task lighting may look like a desk lamp, helping to reduce eye strain and creating a productive work atmosphere. 

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting can be used to draw attention to a specific area of a room. It is often used to highlight architectural features, plants (in an outdoor layout), sculptures or collections of objects. This type of lighting also creates the illusion that a room is larger.

One popular type of accent light is track lighting: a surface-mounted lighting solution that uses rails or tracks. Track heads are individual lights that can be placed at any location along the track, brightening certain areas rather than lighting the entire room.

Suspended Lights 

These lighting fixtures hang from the ceiling with a rod or cord. Suspended fixtures provide ambient or task illumination. Suspended fixtures can accommodate many bulbs (candescent, CFL and LED) and come in many sizes.

Archify is a platform for sourcing and specifying architectural and design products. We are proud to have a large selection of lighting systems from trusted lighting suppliers, brands and manufacturers.

Lighting Categories:

• Decorative Lighting
• Downlights
• Floor, Table & Task Lighting
• LED Lighting Products
• Lighting Systems
• Outdoor & Exterior Lighting
• Solar Lighting
• Switches & Sockets
• Wall, Ceiling, Lighting & Fittings
• Other Lighting