Wall-mounted luminaires are defined first and foremost by their type of mounting and not by their light characteristics. Different light distributions are possible such as narrow-beamed, wide-beamed, symmetrical or asymmetrical in various directions.
Criteria for wall-mounted luminaires
- choice of luminaire determines lightcolour and light intensity
- emission angle determines thebeam of light
- cut-off angle or optical cut-off limit glare and increase visual comfort
Ceiling washlights
Ceiling washlights have an asymmetric light distribution and emit light upwards onto horizontal surfaces. The ceiling surface is illuminated evenly and over a large area. On ceiling washlights, the section of the ceiling to be illuminated can be partly clipped along the luminaire's main axis with the help of infinitely adjustable cut-off shields. Uplights differentiate themselves from ceiling washlights by their different reflector geometry, altered light distribution, and higher light output ratio
Floor washlights
Floor washlights have an asymmetric light distribution and emit light downwards onto horizontal surfaces.
Ceiling washlights
Ceiling washlights should be mounted above eye-level. The distance to the ceiling depends on the level of evenness required on the ceiling. The distance to the ceiling should measure at least 0.8 m for indirect lighting so that an even illumination is ensured.
Floor washlights
The mounting height (h) of floor washlights near to seats or seating should be less than eye-level (1.2 m), normally 0.8 m above the floor level.
For illumination of ceilings or floors in:
- churches
- theatres
- museums
- pedestrian traffic areas
Recessed wall-mounted downlights are inconspicuous architectural details, whereas surface-mounted downlights act as a feature in the room They should correspond to the architecture in their arrangement and form.
ERCO Newsletter - inspiring projects, new products and fresh lighting knowledge
