New Lighting for Old Buildings

Abstract

Some reasons for the improvement of artificial lighting in old buildings are discussed, and in addition to the desire to secure direct improvement of vision and to reveal the interior architecture and decoration, the provision of a more cheerful and comfortable appearance, the improvement of colour rendering and the desire for illumination comparable with that found in more modern buildings are covered.

Present lighting technique is reviewed and the characteristics of contemporary electric light sources and their bearing on the subject of the paper are discussed. Factors involved in light control are dealt with and the effect of different methods of lighting on the revealing of form, texture and colour are illustrated.

The variety of buildings considered is limited to those employed for historic, civic, official and domestic purposes, and some consideration is given to the architectural styles encountered. A broad classification into (a) buildings of historic style and tradition requiring improved lighting, and (b) buildings whose use dictates the adoption of a modern standard of illumination, is made, and the implications of each requirement outlined.

The co-ordination of the requirements of the architect and of the illuminating engineer is considered, and various practical methods of dealing with the problems involved are suggested. Actual and theoretical examples of the application of new light sources, together with the design of the lighting fixtures and the disposition of the control gear, are given and illustrated.