In architectural lighting, a perception-orientated approach to planning combined with innovative technology results in high-quality designs, but also economically attractive solutions. Visual comfort, achieved through glare control and avoidance of extreme contrasts, improves the energy efficiency as it enhances the perception and generally supports lower illuminance levels. Vertical illuminance creates an optimal visual environment in more ways than one: the homogeneous illumination of vertical surfaces facilitates orientation, increasing the subjective feeling of brightness and safety. Through a balanced distribution of illuminances, it reduces the contrasts and reliably prevents glare. In this way, vertical architectural elements such as walls, curtains and façades, but also the vegetation can be illuminated as space-defining surfaces.

Vertical Illuminance Tutorial film

Architecture

Light is the fourth dimension of architecture. It is lighting that can enhance the effect of meticulously planned buildings and extend their visual presence in public places well into the night. Vertical lighting, in particular, can be used to highlight the building as a whole, which increases its spatial effect, enhancing the quality of the environment.

Perception

Humans perceive spatial dimensions and connections intuitively through vertical surfaces. These constitute the majority of the visual field and provide the information required for perception. For this reason, light on space-defining surfaces is a central element of qualitative architectural lighting.

Energy efficiency

Perception-orientated principles of planning and design offer enormous potential for increased efficiency in architectural lighting. Directing the light specifically onto surfaces relevant to perception, while using innovative technology, is the key to high-quality design and economic lighting solutions.

Wallwasher technology

Vertical illuminance can be achieved by various techniques. ERCO's range of products comprises an exceptionally diverse selection of special lighting tools for these applications. In particular, asymmetrically designed reflectors or optical systems ensure homogeneous light distribution on the wall, preventing spill light and achieving maximum efficiency.

Wallwashers for track mounting

Wallwashers for recessed ceiling installation

Wallwashers for in-ground installation

Compact fluorescent lamps: Horizontal ambient lighting

At first glance, a grid of downlights with compact fluorescent lamps may seem to be an efficient, rational lighting concept for a waiting area. Yet, here too, there is considerable potential for increased efficiency through qualitative lighting design and a differentiated use of LED lighting tools.

Floor 230lx
Wall 90lx
Switches 310lx
2704W
7.8W/m2

LED: Differentiated lighting design with wallwashing

Even in comparison to classic lighting solutions with compact fluorescent lamps, LED luminaires still make a convincing choice when used in a differentiated lighting design. The wallwashers heighten the spatial impression and give a feeling of spaciousness. The higher reflectance of the bright walls, compared to the usually darker floors, is used to advantage in this case. A wide grid of downlights ensures sufficient ambient lighting in the seating areas and also allows the number of luminaires to be minimised.

Floor 220lx
Wall 110lx
Switches 300lx
2324W
6.7W/m2
Savings: 14%

Vertical illuminance: Lighting tools

Cantax

Cantax
Introduction

Optec

Optec
Introduction

Parscan

Parscan
Introduction

Quintessence round

Quintessence round
Introduction

Quintessence square

Quintessence square
Introduction

TFL Wallwasher

TFL Wallwasher
Introduction

Nadir IP67

Nadir IP67
Introduction

Powercast

Powercast
Introduction

Grasshopper

Grasshopper
Introduction

Parscoop

Parscoop
Introduction

Lightmark

Lightmark
Introduction

Focalflood

Focalflood
Introduction

Lightcast

Lightcast
Introduction

Paratec

Paratec
Introduction

Tesis IP68

Tesis IP68
Introduction

Vertical illuminance: Guide

Spotlights

Spotlights
Flexible luminaires for tracks to produce accent lighting

Wall

Wall
From scenic wall illumination through to vertical visual tasks

Wall

Wall
Defining space through facade lighting at night

Wallwashers

Wallwashers
Lighting technology for vertical surfaces

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