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LIGHT
WHAT IS LIGHT?
Light, electromagnetic radiation that can be detected by the human eye.
Electromagnetic radiation occurs over an extremely wide range of
wavelengths, from gamma rays with wavelengths less than about 1 ×
10−11 metre to radio waves measured in metres.
EFFECTS OF LIGHT:
hese effects depend on the conductivity of the materials the electricity
travels through, and are:
electrical: Electrical voltages created by electrical discharges dissipated
in the ground that is struck by lightning. These voltages (contact and
step voltages) are extremely hazardous for living beings;
thermal: Substantial damage and injuries (fires, burns, and destruction)
caused by a major release of heat;
electrodynamic (forces): Forces of attraction occur between parallel
conductors that are traversed by currents in the same direction (for
example, going down a lightning rod and a rainwater pipe) and create
mechanical stresses and strain;
electromagnetic: The lightning current induces extremely high voltage
and an extremely strong electromagnetic field that generate very
powerful electric pulses that can damage sensitive electronic devices;
electrochemical: Corrosion due to currents circulating through buried
conductors;
acoustic (thunder and pressure waves): Window panes can be shattered
a few metres from the point of impact;
physiological: From simple dazzling to being struck dead by lightning,
with a range of effects in between: nervous shocks, various forms of
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blindness and deafness, blacking out,
momentary or prolonged comas, etc.
TYPES OF LIGHT:
1. Ambient Lighting (General Lighting)
This is one of the most common types of
lighting. Ambient light is a soft glow that
blankets your space just enough for you to function without causing a
harsh glare. In photography and cinematography, ambient light is
considered the “natural light” within a room. In décor, ambient light is
very similar, except you create the ambient light by making the room’s
lighting as natural and flat as possible. While ambient light is meant to
get you safely from point A-to-B, it is not ideal for working closely with
things or to highlight things around your space.
Recessed or Track Lights. Try using a series of
these throughout your space. These work well
with all types of ceilings, but if your ceiling is lower
make sure the light isn’t too harsh for the room.
Be careful not to over light the space. See the example with the track
light below. Try these in your bedroom, den, kitchen or living room.
Chandeliers and Pendants. These light fixtures work fantastic with
taller ceilings. You can choose which height is best for your lighting
needs. Notice how the chandeliers below are placed lower in areas
people will not be walking near. They are also
very classic pieces that work well in foyers, over
the tub in the bathroom.
Wall Sconces and Wall Lights. These are so
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versatile they work almost anywhere. Use these
carefully. If you use too many in one location it may
cause a harsher light, but when placed sparingly these
work great in hallways, patios and porches. Try to
incorporate the wall sconces into your homes
architecture.
2. Task Lighting
This is a smaller more concentrated light. You want task lighting around
when you’re working. In fact, some people call it office lighting. Task
lighting only works well when it is used as a contrasting light. For
example, if you have a low lit room with a desk lamp turned on, the
light in that area will be more effective with less
glare than if the entire room was lit with a
brighter light.
Desk, Swing Arm and Floor Lamps. Use lamps on
your desks, bedside tables, coffee tables or
anywhere you need a little extra light for working.
Swing arm lamps allow you to adjust the light
anyway you’d like. Since they are portable these are the ideal task
lights.
Under Cabinet and Vanity Lights. These are the ultimate task lights.
Under cabinet lights work great in your kitchen, like below. They add a
flare to your kitchen and give the extra light you need for chopping and
cleaning. Vanity lighting works well in the bathroom and on dressing
mirrors. These lights also work in garages or workstations
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Pendant and Track Lights. Pendants are great because
they can be placed in a lot of areas and can hang directly
about work spaces. Track lights are great for the same
reason, except they can typically cover a little more
space. These lights are great for offices with rows of
desks, above kitchen islands and in children’s
play/homework areas.
3. Accent Lighting
This is a very concentrated light with the intention of drawing the eye
to its focal point. Accent lighting is a way of adding style and drama to
your home. This will help you illuminate the pieces you want on display,
while shadowing dull areas. People use accenting for
wall washing, artwork, bookcase displays, pieces of
furniture, collections and the general architecture of
their homes. Outdoor accent lighting is when you
highlight parts of the architecture of your home or
yard. This is very popular during the holidays,
especially Halloween and Christmas.
Wall Lights. Wall lights are fantastic for designing accent lighting. They
come in a range of sizes that allow you the highlight big or small pieces
of art. These work great on art walls and for showcasing the
architecture of your space.
Landscape Lighting. These lights are the best for
showing off the outside of your home. Use landscape
lighting to light up a pathway, prized garden or statue.
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For multiple types of lighting options consider using a light dimmer.
Dimmers help achieve any mood or look you’re looking for at the push
of a button.
