Neuroarchitecture has taught us that the way in which people experience space differs dramatically from one person to the next. That’s why multisensory design is vital when looking to create buildings that heal and nurture its occupants.
Lighting plays a powerful role here because architects can manipulate light to create the narrative they are after.
But light cannot exist on its own. When light shines on a surface, it casts a shadow, and it’s the interplay between the two that truly drives the story home.
The importance of light in architecture
While it is a noble goal to try to achieve all the light for a building from the sun, it simply isn’t feasible. We can’t all rise with the sun and turn in when it sets.
But most importantly, natural light never stays the same. It changes at various times of the day and is constantly influenced by weather conditions and seasonal variations. We need to maximise natural light but supplement when and where needed with the appropriate artificial lighting.
Light, both natural and artificial, can directly influence whether a room fulfils its objectives to:
Create atmosphere and beauty
Light can alter the perception of space. Soft and warm light instils a sense of relaxation and comfort, while brighter light can invite focus and concentration. The right light can make a small room appear more spacious or a larger one feel cosier. Light can also guide focus and highlight features, and accentuate textures, colours, and forms to make people feel a certain way.
Address functionality and safety
Practically speaking, we know we need light for safety and to perform certain tasks better. This is particularly the case in places where shadows could cause eye strain or lead to accidents. For this reason, light has an important role to play in offices, kitchens, staircases, and particularly outside at night.
Enhance mood and well-being
Natural light can help boost mood, productivity, and physical health. Studies have shown that it’s a natural antidepressant, especially early morning light. Light is also the key to regulating circadian rhythms. By exposing ourselves to enough natural light during the day, and none before bed (no screens), we can positively influence the quality of rest while we sleep, and the energy we experience while we are awake.
Circadian disruption, on the other hand, has been attributed to many psychiatric and other health conditions, including eating disorders, ADHD, heart disease, infertility, type II diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s Disease.
Contribute to sustainability
Light influences energy use in homes and buildings. By taking advantage of the sun’s light through the best placement of windows, skylights, and reflective surfaces, we can reduce our reliance on artificial light. It’s about getting the balance right and making a building more sustainable.
The role of shadow in architecture
While shadow generally plays a supportive role to the lead character (light), its impact makes all the difference.
Shadow is important because it helps to:
Define a space
Shadows help to outline edges, making the volume and proportions of a space clearer. They guide the eye to give meaning between different elements to complete the bigger picture.
Enhance the composition
Thanks to shadows, light can appear less harsh, textures can come into focus, and a space can come alive with movement throughout the day. No room can be static when shadows are present, which directly enriches the room’s atmosphere.
Cool down an area
Too much of anything – even light – is never a good thing. Therefore, shadow brings a welcome cool break from light, which is particularly favourable in outdoor settings. By creating shade, outdoor areas become more comfortable in summer heat, making it easier for people to stay outside in nature longer.
Provide symbolism
Just like light, the clever play of shadows can hold cultural and symbolic meaning in architecture. Shadows can be mysterious, invite reflection, or frame focal points. It is a gentle reminder that architecture isn’t just about what you see, but what a building makes you feel.
Mastering the art of light and shadow
Building orientation, seasons, and weather are among the most important factors to consider when designing a home. These shape the way light and shadow will interact in various rooms and also influence natural ventilation and overall comfort.
Once these factors are considered, a building becomes an architect’s canvas, and light and shadow dynamic brushstrokes.
The following ideas can help to turn light and shadow into art:
- The thoughtful placement of decorative openings, skylights, atriums, large- or deep-set windows can help to direct daylight in and create patterns that change throughout the day.
- The use of materials that reflect or refract light, like mirrors, polished stone, water, or glass can create a scattering of light in unexpected shapes and colours.
- The inclusion of light wells or central courtyards can draw natural light in more deeply, balancing brightness and shadow.
- The addition of overhangs, louvers, and vegetation can soften the rays of the sun and create shifting shadows.
- A staircase can add layered vertical and horizontal planes.
- Double volume spaces bring more height and depth, and allow additional light and shadow to dance around in it.
- The use of perforated panels, latticework, or patterned facades can create beautifully eloquent patterns.
Throughout the centuries, light and shadow have been used to stir emotions, add interest, and allow an architect to tell a story true to that day and age.
In modern buildings, however, they have bigger shoes to fill.
Thanks to Neuroarchitecture, light and shadow need to actively address the well-being of occupants by making daylight accessible, creating comfort, and reconnecting people with nature, whether it’s a single-storey home or an office on the tenth floor. Added to this, light and shadow also need to actively reduce reliance on artificial light, heating, and cooling.
As a result, architects can no longer treat light and shadow as mere design tools or consequences of other design choices. Light and shadow are essential to shaping the experience of a space and should be prioritised from the very beginning.
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Love,
xxx
Gill
