LIGHTSCAPE

Architecture would not be experienced without light. The interaction of space and volume with light is an integral part of architecture. In this context artificial lighting with electric light is considered an element of architectural design.

Furthermore, light has a cultural and historical significance : Light is energy . Light is crucial to the health and well-being of people. After a light, bright 20th century, the 21st century is perhaps the century of nuances and shadows, where it is important to detect and visualize moods, rather than illuminating everything that is garish.

As a result of our global responsibilities and the global consequences of creating new architecture, we will have to deal more cautiously with the resources of light and energy. The regulation and use of natural light – in terms of shading, solar orientation, landscaping, etc. - will become more important and have a considerable impact in shaping architecture and urban planning in the future. Energy saving and the associated avoidance of artificial lighting will be significant themes of the future in terms of lighting design and architecture. Nowadays architectural planning gives increasing emphasis on natural light and illumination. This will determinate a change in the way we experience our environment and our materiality, as well as influence our perception of space and colour.