As interior architects, you want to have every detail of your project defined to perfection. One thing will definitely be the nuanced choice of optical technology for each luminaire. There are so many. And why give preference to one over another, or choose one at all?
More than just guiding the light of a LED, optical elements offer creative ways to play with beam patterns, light distribution, even colour. Reflectors, lenses and diffusers, each have their own benefits, function, distinctive look & feel and lighting effect. Choose your optics wisely and your clients will enjoy the enhanced lighting experience your project will provide.
On a LED, light comes out of a diode, which it is covered by a casing called a primary optic. This casing shapes the light somewhat, but the beam it creates is too wide to use in most cases and loses intensity over distance. Also known simply as LED optics, secondary LED optics are added on top of the LED's primary optic. They are necessary to focus the light rays and maintain the intensity of the light beam, as well as improve light distribution. All the while creating all kinds of lovely light effects.
Private residence, Stockholm (Sweden) | Architect: SA Arkitekter | Photographer: Mikael Lundblad
Reflectors create beautiful beams of light, without the ultra-sharp contrast of lenses. They are ideal for creating soft accents and adding contrast. As the name suggests, they work by reflecting the rays of light emitted by the LED. The light beam produced by reflectors offers a heterogeneous light intensity. It has higher intensity in the middle and less around the edges. As part of the light is not directed by the reflector, there is always some scattered light outside the beam, making it slightly nuanced. Their finish and colour add to the effect created.
There's nothing like the solace of light quietly falling on an engrossing piece of art. If you're trying to design such a moment, lens technology is your choice. A great alternative for creating and playing with accents, lenses make a statement. Their beam is highly concentrated from directing and reflecting all the light rays coming out of the primary optic, into an efficient beam. As a result, the extremely focused light creates a sharp contrast with its surroundings. Lenses can be made of plastic or glass. If given the choice, opt for glass as it has long-term durability while preserving its quality over time.
Diffusers work by covering the light source and preventing it from lighting a surface directly. Polycarbonate or PMMA are often used in profiles, but glass diffusers are being used more and more in stand-alone luminaires. Glass adds a design element that complements function and durability.
The type of light created by diffusers is usually easier on the eyes, making it ideal for visual comfort. In homes, offices, healthcare, diffusers are widely used to add general lighting or good basic lighting to a project. Their uniform distribution of light is ideal to create a neutral canvas onto which you can add other luminaires. Complement the lighting experience and an uplight to a suspended luminaire to reduce contrast, or indirect light against the wall. All supporting visual comfort for the users of a space.
Private residence, Oud-Heverlee (Belgium) | Architect: BNE Architecten | Photographer: Jim Van Loo
