ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the initial findings from a collaboration between practicing lighting designers and design researchers to explore the ways that qualitative and quantitative methodologies can inform how we consider lighting design might improve gendered experiences of urban spaces at night. Through an inquiry of the role of light in facilitating gender equity in access to public spaces at night in Melbourne, Australia, this chapter discusses how technical elements of lighting and the typologies of light and darkness can contribute to perceptions of safety for women and girls. It also highlights the shortfalls of current design compliance and policies. The results of the case study present a starting point for more equitable night-time design outcomes, demonstrating a mixed-methods, human-factored approach that elevates marginalised voices regarding lighting design that should be considered by designers, policymakers, the public and academics alike.
