The Impact of Illumination on Interior Design
Interior design transcends mere aesthetics - it entails crafting environments that are both functional and welcoming for people. Lighting Design, ranging from natural to artificial sources, exerts a profound influence on how we perceive and experience a space.
Hurray’s reputable expertise in lighting design wouldn’t be possible without the visionary contributions of co-founder and Principal Designer, IDr. Rossy Rojales, PIID. Her passion for illumination ignited in 2023 during a serendipitous visit to the Bras Basah Complex in Singapore. Though not intending to purchase a book, she found herself captivated by “Home Lighting Effects Bible,” which illuminated her path to explore the intricate world of lighting design. This pivotal experience, coupled with her work alongside clients who demanded precise lighting solutions propelled her professional journey. Driven by an insatiable curiosity and a desire to elevate spaces through light, IDr. Rossy pursued formal education in Lighting Design at SOFA in 2016, further extending her expertise and solidifying Hurray’s position as a leader in creating environments that seamlessly blend form, function, and illumination.
IDr. Rossy shares, “Lighting is more than just illuminating a space; it requires strategic planning from the outset. This involves considering client preferences, the activities that will take place in the space, the materials to be highlighted, the need for dimming controls, and energy-saving requirements.” She continues, “When these factors are overlooked, the result is often flat and uninteresting lighting.”
For Hurray, lighting design plays a pivotal role in the overall conceptualization of interior spaces, so much so that it is meticulously considered and integrated at the earliest stage of their design process, allowing for a seamless fusion of form and function that enhances the aesthetic appeal and functionality of every project they undertake.
At the start of every project, Hurray begins by assessing the strategy for decorative and architectural lighting.
Lighting design in interior spaces encompasses two main approaches: Decorative and Architectural. Decorative lighting serves as statement pieces, enhancing aesthetics with visually striking fixtures like chandeliers or pendant lights that complement or contrast with the existing decor. It adds sparkle, style, and visual interest while providing functional illumination.
Architectural lighting, conversely, integrates seamlessly into the building’s structure, prioritizing discreet, low-glare solutions that enhance the architecture without drawing attention to the fixtures themselves. This approach focuses on functional and efficient illumination, balancing technical and visual aspects by incorporating lighting into architectural elements such as recessed ceiling lights or wall cavities. Both types of lighting work together to create a harmonious blend of style and functionality, transforming spaces and setting the desired tone and atmosphere.
In lighting design, the purpose extends beyond functionality. By considering factors such as light distribution, color temperature, and intensity, designers sculpt the atmosphere, create mood, visual interest, and highlight architectural features to enhance spatial experience. This approach represents an intersection of art, technology, and science, incorporating principles from physics, engineering, and the psychological effects of light on occupants, ultimately improving the ability to live, work, and function within the space without distracting fixtures.
Hurray designs illumination with daytime and night time in mind. Aside from taking client considerations and preferences to heart, the overall environment of the space at specific times of the day is also considered.
For daytime lighting, it is important to consider the locations of windows and skylight, the reflective materials to be used and the function for the space. With windows, you must look into the amount of light that comes in and the type of treatment used whether it be curtains or blinds. Lighting design is not just about adding lights but ways to maximize natural lighting. For night time lighting, a distinct additional consideration is made for window views and how these will be illuminated.
A best practice to develop in creating lighting design is doing light tests especially at night. IDr. Rossy shares, “You have to be mindful that some materials like red narra flooring react differently to light.”
Lighting plays a pivotal role in interior design - it wields the power to transform a room by enhancing colors and textures, creating ambiance, and highlighting architectural features. By understanding how to effectively utilize different lighting types and professionally positioning fixtures within a space, designers can craft a design that is cohesive, functional, and inviting.
“Quality lighting is akin to purchasing quality furniture. Choosing the right luminaires and collaborating with top lighting consultants can transform the overall look and mood of a space,” continues IDr. Rossy. “I always tell clients that even expensive furniture will appear cheap under poor lighting. Never underestimate the power of a well-designed and properly illuminated interior.”
So, the next time you enter a room and think, “Wow, what a beautiful space,” take a moment to appreciate the impact illumination has on interior design and how thoughtful use of light can transform a space into something truly special and unique.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your understanding of lighting design and its impact on interior spaces. If you haven’t, watch our residential lighting webinar on YouTube.