ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the interrelationship of light and darkness from the viewpoint of the lighting designer. It analyses the current situation and the changing response to darkness and darkness’s necessary role within lighting design; it closes with the authors’ recommendations of how to incorporate darkness to promote a richer experience for the viewer.
Lighting design, as a designated unique discipline, is a relatively recent field, particularly when compared to the long-established history of architecture and engineering. Throughout its short history, its definition has continuously evolved to align with a growing understanding of the relationship between light, architecture and people.
The chapter’s key message is born of the desire to inspire design practices which encourage the creation of unique, emotive and captivating designs which enhance the visual experience of the built environment and deliver richer experiences for the viewer.
Understanding that there are inherent tensions between scientific and artistic approaches, the authors promote creative freedom balanced with minimum necessary rational standardisation and place confidence in the extraordinary adaptability of the human visual system.
