Atmospheric Lighting for Public Space

Abstract

In this thesis, a luminaire is developed for the public space. The main purpose of this luminaire is to positively influence the state of mind of bystanders and improve the residential quality of the city centre. It does this by creating distinct atmospheres with adaptive light features, based on the use of public space. To determine all the preconditions of such a design, an extensive analysis was carried out on all facets that are related to light. This covers both the physics concerning light and the (psychological) perception of that light. After an analysis of the current role of light in the public space, the interests of all stakeholders have been framed. Based on this, a design vision has been drawn up; ‘‘DEVELOP A PROGRAMMABLE LUMINAIRE WHICH HAS THE MAIN FUNCTION OF POSITIVELY INFLUENCING THE STATE OF MIND OF BYSTANDERS BY USING ITS ADAPTIVE LIGHT PROPERTIES TO CREATE DESIRED ATMOSPHERES’,’ Within this vision, after several brainstorms, four concepts have been developed. The concept with the most viability has been used as the basis. The “iterative design” method has been applied within the thesis, with multiple models/prototypes being made; at first simple models (spuugmodellen), later more detailed scale models. Hereby, making prototypes has always been seen as a means, not as a goal. Physical models have been used to explore design areas and to validate design choices. Because designing with light context is very important, a case study has been developed within this thesis; the centre of Tilburg. By dividing the city centre of Tilburg into three areas “residential area, shopping area and catering area”, light scripts have been developed that respond to the (subconscious) needs of residents and visitors of city districts with their unique specific functions. These light scripts are based on the adaptive (programmable) light properties of the developed luminaire. A hierarchical system has been developed for this that can determine light properties based on several external factors. These light properties are converted to a numerical system, which is used as input for programming the luminaire. The impact of the different light properties on the atmospheric perception of the light was determined in a test setup, for which a scale model of the final design was used. In this study, the prototype also functions as a proof of concept. Based on the results of the research, a conceptual model has been drawn up, in which the light properties of the luminaire can be determined on the basis of the desired atmosphere. The thesis concludes with a feedback on the established preconditions, whereby a proposal is made for future research.