‘Lighting the Homes of To-Morrow’

Abstract

The paper deals with the lighting of the homes of the ‘million.’ Using published and new statistical data, the author deduces the pre-1939 average weekly expenditure on artificial light and the level and quality of the illumination prevailing in the homes of the lower income group in the U.K. Suggestions are made for improving the quality of the lighting without increased expenditure, with emphasis on the influence of decorations, and a plea for efficient units designed in accordance with well-defined principles.

The author accepts the I.E.S. Code values, and concludes that attainment of them necessitates at least twice the pre-1939 expenditure on gas or electricity, for lighting. He contends that the use of higher levels will result mainly from precept and example and availability of low running-cost sources; but that very considerable and immediate improvement in quality of illumination would result from preferential taxation of suggested “Utility” units of approved design, and sympathetic action in regard to decorations by architects and building authorities.