Lighting is an essential component of our living, working and leisure spaces. But how do we know if the lighting in a space is sufficient, comfortable and adapted to our needs? Lighting, beyond its simple function of luminosity, must be measured to guarantee its performance and suitability for the use of each space. So how is lighting measured, and what parameters need to be taken into account to create an optimal lighting environment?
Light intensity: Luminance and Lux
The first parameter to consider when measuring lighting is light intensity, often expressed in lux. Lux measures the amount of light that reaches a given surface, and this parameter depends on several factors, such as the intensity of the light source, the distance between this source and the surface, and the angle at which the light is diffused.
Good lighting measurement requires knowing whether the intensity is sufficient for the task in hand. For example, for a reading room, a more intense light will be needed (around 300 to 500 lux), while for a softer atmosphere in a living room, a level of 100 to 200 lux will suffice.
Color Temperature (CCT): Creating ambience through color
Color temperature (CCT) is another essential factor for measuring lighting. Expressed in kelvins (K), CCT determines the hue of light, ranging from warm (yellow/orange) to cool (blue/silver). Warm light is ideal for creating a warm, intimate atmosphere, while cool light stimulates concentration and productivity, which is often preferable in an office or workspace.
So, good lighting isn’t just about illuminating a space, it’s also about choosing the right color temperature to suit the use of the space and the desired ambience.
Color Rendering Index (CRI) : Color fidelity
Another important factor is the Color Rendering Index (CRI), which measures a light source’s ability to render colors faithfully compared to natural light. A high CRI (close to 100) means that colors are perceived as natural and vibrant, which is particularly important in environments where color perception is essential, such as clothing stores or paint shops.
CRI also influences the aesthetic aspect of lighting, ensuring that lighting highlights objects and textures in the space without distorting colors.
Light distribution: avoiding glare and ensuring uniformity
Light distribution is a fundamental aspect to consider. Poorly distributed light can create areas that are too dark or too bright, resulting in visual discomfort. What’s more, poor lighting can lead to glare – overly intense light that causes visual discomfort and eye strain.
It is therefore essential to distribute lighting evenly throughout a space, to ensure that there are no shadows or over-lighting. By optimizing the arrangement of luminaires and the direction of light, we can achieve lighting that promotes concentration and visual comfort, while reducing the risk of eyestrain.
Lighting Sustainability: Energy Consumption and Ecology
In a world increasingly concerned about the environment, the sustainability of lighting is also an important yardstick. Energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LEDs, reduce energy consumption while delivering optimum performance. A more sustainable lighting source contributes to a reduced carbon footprint and responsible energy management.
Intelligent lighting solutions, such as those offered by MAGGMALIGHT, also enable light to be adjusted according to space occupancy, reducing unnecessary consumption and maximizing energy efficiency.
Flicker and Light Stability: Comfort and Health
Flicker is another factor that needs to be measured and taken into account when evaluating lighting. Although often invisible to the naked eye, flickering lighting can have negative effects on health, causing fatigue, headaches and visual stress. To ensure comfortable, healthy lighting, it’s crucial to choose solutions that minimize flicker and provide stable light.
Intelligent Lighting and Programming: Adapting Light to Our Needs
These days, lighting is about more than just providing light. It has to adapt to our needs and preferences. This is where intelligent lighting comes in. Modern systems make it possible to program and control light according to time of day, activities or occupants’ personal preferences.
With solutions like those from MAGGMALIGHT, it’s possible to customize lighting to suit each space and activity. For example, by adjusting color temperature and light intensity according to the time of day, it’s possible to promote concentration in the morning, create a relaxed atmosphere in the evening, and even promote better sleep by reducing light intensity before bedtime.
Lighting is measured by much more than just its luminous intensity. Parameters such as color temperature, CRI, light uniformity and even light source stability are essential to guarantee not only the functionality of lighting, but also the comfort, safety and well-being of occupants. Thanks to modern, intelligent technologies, it is now possible to create lighting environments perfectly adapted to our needs, while optimizing energy consumption and preserving the environment. Solutions such as those offered by MAGGMALIGHT provide a flexible response to these requirements, offering optimally lit spaces for every moment and every activity.
