How does light create an attractive focal point for the surroundings?
Welcoming visitors with light
Guiding towards the museum with light
At night, light transforms museums into urban landmarks by making its facade and outdoor exhibits visible. Accents in the foreground adopt the role of orientation points from afar. A bright entrance area defines the route and prestigious facade illumination establishes the background.
Supporting orientation with light
Glare-free general lighting outdoors enables clear and concise route guidance and increases the feeling of safety. Ground washlights in the form of bollards for example or facade luminaires are suitable for this purpose. Arranging the luminaires along the side of the path enables unhindered access. High visual comfort is also created because the light is exclusively directed to the ground. In the building's entrance area, downlights adopt this function and welcome visitors with a carpet of light. This bright "welcome mat" guides from the outside into the interior.
Creating a prestigious impression with a light
Vertical lighting creates a prestigious atmosphere whilst emphasising the size of the building and the position of the entrance. Grazing light wallwashers create striking shadow effects especially on rough surfaces such as natural stone, thereby contributing to an attractive impression from a distance. Wallwashing in the entrance area guides visitors elegantly into the foyer.
Guiding views with light
Accent lighting outside creates appealing points of interest. The contrast in brightness to the surroundings emphasises the presence of the exhibits. A contrast ratio of 1:5 to 1:10 is recommended between the environment and the exhibit. For outdoor applications, projectors or uplights in the form of directional spotlights can be used as recessed ground luminaires.
ERCO light guide: Culture
Planning tips for design and technology
