Illumination For Architectural Features
Expert-defined terms from the Masterclass Certificate in Lighting for Historic Monuments course at LearnUNI. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Abrasiveness refers to the rough nature of a surface, which can affect th… #
Abrasiveness refers to the rough nature of a surface, which can affect the way light interacts with it, in the context of Illumination For Architectural Features, abrasiveness is an important consideration when selecting lighting fixtures and designing lighting schemes.
Accelerated aging is a testing method used to simulate the effects of tim… #
Accelerated aging is a testing method used to simulate the effects of time on materials and lighting fixtures, helping to determine their durability and longevity.
Accent lighting is a technique used to draw attention to specific archite… #
Accent lighting is a technique used to draw attention to specific architectural features or design elements, often using bright and focused light sources.
Acoustic comfort refers to the quality of the acoustic environment, which… #
Acoustic comfort refers to the quality of the acoustic environment, which can be affected by the use of lighting fixtures and their placement, in historic monuments, acoustic comfort is essential for preserving the authentic experience.
Active lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use sensor… #
Active lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use sensors and software to automatically adjust lighting levels and colors based on various factors such as occupancy, time of day, and natural light availability.
Aesthetic appeal refers to the visual attractiveness of a lighting design… #
Aesthetic appeal refers to the visual attractiveness of a lighting design or fixture, which can greatly impact the overall ambiance and experience of a historic monument.
Air quality monitoring is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy en… #
Air quality monitoring is an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy environment in historic monuments, and lighting fixtures can play a role in reducing air pollution.
Ambient lighting provides general illumination to a space, often using <b… #
Ambient lighting provides general illumination to a space, often using soft and diffused light sources to create a comfortable atmosphere.
Ancient monuments require specialized lighting designs that take into acc… #
Ancient monuments require specialized lighting designs that take into account their unique architectural features and historical significance.
Angle of incidence refers to the angle at which light hits a surface, whi… #
Angle of incidence refers to the angle at which light hits a surface, which can affect the way it is reflected or absorbed.
Architectural conservation is the process of preserving and protecting hi… #
Architectural conservation is the process of preserving and protecting historic buildings and monuments, which includes the careful selection and installation of lighting fixtures.
Architectural lighting design is the art and science of creating l… #
Architectural lighting design is the art and science of creating lighting schemes that enhance and complement the unique features of a building or monument.
Artificial lighting refers to man #
made light sources, such as lamps and fixtures, used to supplement or replace natural light.
Asymmetric lighting is a technique used to create visual interest… #
Asymmetric lighting is a technique used to create visual interest by using light sources that are not symmetrical or uniform.
Audio descriptions are verbal explanations of the visual elements… #
Audio descriptions are verbal explanations of the visual elements of a historic monument, which can be enhanced by the use of lighting to highlight specific features.
Automatic lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use sen… #
Automatic lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use sensors and software to automatically adjust lighting levels and colors based on various factors such as occupancy, time of day, and natural light availability.
Backlighting is a technique used to create silhouettes or highl… #
Backlighting is a technique used to create silhouettes or highlights by placing light sources behind objects or architectural features.
Beam angle refers to the angle of the light beam emitted by a fixture, wh… #
Beam angle refers to the angle of the light beam emitted by a fixture, which can affect the spread and intensity of the light.
Biodiversity conservation is the process of preserving and protecting the… #
Biodiversity conservation is the process of preserving and protecting the natural environment and ecosystems, which can be affected by the use of lighting in historic monuments.
Blending lighting is a technique used to create a seamless transit… #
Blending lighting is a technique used to create a seamless transition between different light sources or levels, often used to enhance the visual appeal of a historic monument.
Brightness refers to the intensity of light, which can be measured … #
Brightness refers to the intensity of light, which can be measured in units such as candelas or lux.
Building codes and regulations are standards and guidelines that g… #
Building codes and regulations are standards and guidelines that govern the design and construction of buildings, including the use of lighting fixtures and systems.
Building information modeling is a digital representation of a building o… #
Building information modeling is a digital representation of a building or monument, which can be used to simulate and analyze lighting designs.
Candela is a unit of measurement for light intensity , often used t… #
Candela is a unit of measurement for light intensity, often used to specify the brightness of light sources.
Cathode ray tube is a type of display technology used in some lighting fi… #
Cathode ray tube is a type of display technology used in some lighting fixtures, which can be less energy-efficient than modern alternatives.
Certification programs are initiatives that recognize and verify t… #
Certification programs are initiatives that recognize and verify the expertise and knowledge of lighting professionals, such as those specializing in historic monument lighting.
Chromatic adaptation is the process by which the human eye adjusts … #
Chromatic adaptation is the process by which the human eye adjusts to changes in the color temperature of light sources.
Color consistency refers to the uniformity of color between different lig… #
Color consistency refers to the uniformity of color between different light sources or fixtures, which can be essential for creating a coherent visual environment.
Color rendering index is a measure of a light source's ability to accu… #
Color rendering index is a measure of a light source's ability to accurately render the colors of objects and surfaces.
Color temperature refers to the warmth or coolness of a light sour… #
Color temperature refers to the warmth or coolness of a light source, measured in units such as Kelvin.
Commissioning is the process of testing and verifying that a light… #
Commissioning is the process of testing and verifying that a lighting system or fixture is functioning as intended.
Component #
based lighting is a design approach that involves selecting and combining individual components, such as lamps and fixtures, to create a custom lighting system.
Computer #
aided design is a digital tool used to create and simulate lighting designs, which can help streamline the design process and improve accuracy.
Conservation of energy refers to the practice of reducing energy consu… #
Conservation of energy refers to the practice of reducing energy consumption and minimizing waste, which can be achieved through the use of energy-efficient lighting fixtures and systems.
Control systems are technologies used to regulate and automate<… #
Control systems are technologies used to regulate and automate lighting levels, colors, and other parameters, often using sensors and software.
Cool white light is a type of light with a high color temperature,… #
Cool white light is a type of light with a high color temperature, often used to create a bright and energizing atmosphere.
Cutoff angle refers to the angle at which a light beam is blocked … #
Cutoff angle refers to the angle at which a light beam is blocked or restricted, often used to control glare and spill.
Daylight harvesting is the practice of using natural light to s… #
Daylight harvesting is the practice of using natural light to supplement or replace artificial lighting, which can help reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.
Daylighting is the use of natural light to illuminate a space, whi… #
Daylighting is the use of natural light to illuminate a space, which can be enhanced through the use of skylights, windows, and other architectural features.
Diffuse lighting is a technique used to create a soft and unifo… #
Diffuse lighting is a technique used to create a soft and uniform distribution of light, often used to reduce glare and improve visual comfort.
Dimming is the process of reducing the light output of a fixture o… #
Dimming is the process of reducing the light output of a fixture or system, which can be used to create different ambiances and effects.
Direct lighting is a technique used to create a focused and dir… #
Direct lighting is a technique used to create a focused and directional beam of light, often used to highlight specific architectural features or design elements.
Disability access refers to the practice of designing and implementing… #
Disability access refers to the practice of designing and implementing lighting solutions that are accessible and usable by people with disabilities.
Display lighting is a type of lighting used to highlight and sh… #
Display lighting is a type of lighting used to highlight and showcase specific objects or exhibits, often used in museums and galleries.
Distribution of light refers to the way in which light is spread o… #
Distribution of light refers to the way in which light is spread or directed within a space, which can be affected by the use of different light sources and fixtures.
Downlighting is a technique used to create a focused beam of light… #
Downlighting is a technique used to create a focused beam of light that is directed downwards, often used to highlight specific architectural features or design elements.
Dry contact is a type of electrical connection that does not require</… #
Dry contact is a type of electrical connection that does not require a physical connection, often used in lighting control systems.
Earthquake resistance refers to the ability of a building or monument to… #
Earthquake resistance refers to the ability of a building or monument to withstand seismic activity, which can be enhanced through the use of flexible and resilient lighting fixtures and systems.
Ecolabeling is the practice of labeling products or systems that meet cer… #
Ecolabeling is the practice of labeling products or systems that meet certain environmental standards or criteria, which can help promote sustainable lighting solutions.
Edge lighting is a technique used to create a thin and focused<… #
Edge lighting is a technique used to create a thin and focused beam of light that is directed along the edge of a surface or object.
Efficiency refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to co… #
Efficiency refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to convert electrical energy into visible light, which can be measured in units such as lumens per watt.
Electromagnetic compatibility refers to the ability of a lighting fixture… #
Electromagnetic compatibility refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to coexist with other electrical devices and systems without interfering with their operation.
Emergency lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to pr… #
Emergency lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to provide a safe and reliable source of light in emergency situations, such as power outages or natural disasters.
Energy audit is the process of evaluating and assessing the… #
Energy audit is the process of evaluating and assessing the energy efficiency of a building or monument, which can help identify opportunities for energy savings and improvement.
Energy efficiency refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system t… #
Energy efficiency refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to convert electrical energy into visible light while minimizing energy waste and consumption.
Energy management system is a technology used to monitor and co… #
Energy management system is a technology used to monitor and control energy consumption in a building or monument, which can help optimize energy efficiency and reduce waste.
Environmental impact refers to the effect of a lighting fixture or system… #
Environmental impact refers to the effect of a lighting fixture or system on the natural environment, which can be mitigated through the use of energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions.
Escape route lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to <i… #
Escape route lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to provide a safe and reliable source of light along escape routes, which can help ensure safe evacuation in emergency situations.
Exterior lighting refers to the use of light sources and fixtures to illu… #
Exterior lighting refers to the use of light sources and fixtures to illuminate the outside of a building or monument, which can be used to enhance the visual appeal and security of the exterior environment.
Facility management is the process of overseeing and maintainin… #
Facility management is the process of overseeing and maintaining the operations and infrastructure of a building or monument, which can include the management of lighting systems and fixtures.
Flicker refers to the phenomenon of a light source pulsating or <i… #
Flicker refers to the phenomenon of a light source pulsating or fluctuating in intensity, which can be caused by inconsistent power supply or poor lighting design.
Flexible lighting is a type of lighting that can be easily adju… #
Flexible lighting is a type of lighting that can be easily adjusted or reconfigured to meet changing needs and requirements.
Fluorescent lighting is a type of lighting that uses electricity t… #
Fluorescent lighting is a type of lighting that uses electricity to excite a gas, which produces ultraviolet light that is then converted to visible light.
Footcandle is a unit of measurement for illuminance , often used to… #
Footcandle is a unit of measurement for illuminance, often used to specify the brightness of light sources.
Footlamp is a type of portable light source that is designed to be… #
Footlamp is a type of portable light source that is designed to be placed on the floor or ground, often used for task lighting or accent lighting.
Glare refers to the phenomenon of a light source causing discomfor… #
Glare refers to the phenomenon of a light source causing discomfort or distraction due to its brightness or intensity.
Green building refers to the practice of designing and constructing</b… #
Green building refers to the practice of designing and constructing buildings that are environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient, which can include the use of green lighting solutions.
Grounding refers to the process of connecting a lighting fixture o… #
Grounding refers to the process of connecting a lighting fixture or system to the earth to prevent electrical shock or hazards.
Halogen lighting is a type of lighting that uses a halogen gas to… #
Halogen lighting is a type of lighting that uses a halogen gas to extend the life of the light source and improve its efficiency.
High #
bay lighting is a type of lighting that is designed for use in high-ceilinged spaces, such as warehouses or industrial facilities.
High #
intensity discharge lighting is a type of lighting that uses an electric arc to produce light, which can be more energy-efficient than traditional lighting sources.
Highlighting refers to the technique of using light to draw attent… #
Highlighting refers to the technique of using light to draw attention to specific features or objects, often used in display lighting or accent lighting.
Historic building preservation is the practice of protecting and <… #
Historic building preservation is the practice of protecting and conserving historic buildings and monuments, which can include the use of sensitive lighting design and preservation techniques.
Human factors refer to the aspects of lighting design that affect … #
Human factors refer to the aspects of lighting design that affect human comfort, health, and productivity, such as color temperature, glare, and illumination levels.
Illuminance refers to the amount of light that falls on a surface ,… #
Illuminance refers to the amount of light that falls on a surface, which can be measured in units such as lux or footcandles.
Incandescent lighting is a type of lighting that uses a heated fil… #
Incandescent lighting is a type of lighting that uses a heated filament to produce light, which can be less energy-efficient than modern alternatives.
Infrared lighting is a type of lighting that uses infrared radiati… #
Infrared lighting is a type of lighting that uses infrared radiation to produce heat, which can be used for heating or therapeutic purposes.
Installation requirements refer to the specifications and guidelines</… #
Installation requirements refer to the specifications and guidelines for installing lighting fixtures and systems, which can include electrical and safety considerations.
Intelligent lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use <… #
Intelligent lighting control systems are advanced technologies that use sensors and software to automatically adjust lighting levels and colors based on various factors such as occupancy, time of day, and natural light availability.
Interior lighting refers to the use of light sources and fixtures to illu… #
Interior lighting refers to the use of light sources and fixtures to illuminate the inside of a building or monument, which can be used to enhance the visual appeal and comfort of the interior environment.
Inverters are devices that convert DC power to AC power, which can… #
Inverters are devices that convert DC power to AC power, which can be used to power lighting fixtures and systems.
Lamp life refers to the length of time that a light source can operate… #
Lamp life refers to the length of time that a light source can operate before it fails or needs to be replaced, which can be affected by factors such as usage and maintenance.
Landscape lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illum… #
Landscape lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illuminate outdoor spaces, such as gardens or public parks.
LED lighting is a type of lighting that uses light #
emitting diodes to produce light, which can be more energy-efficient and long-lasting than traditional lighting sources.
Light distribution refers to the way in which light is spread or <… #
Light distribution refers to the way in which light is spread or directed within a space, which can be affected by the use of different light sources and fixtures.
Light emission refers to the process by which a light source produces<… #
Light emission refers to the process by which a light source produces light, which can be affected by factors such as temperature and electricity.
Light pollution refers to the phenomenon of light escaping into th… #
Light pollution refers to the phenomenon of light escaping into the environment and causing unwanted glow or disturbance.
Lighting controls are devices or systems that are used to regul… #
Lighting controls are devices or systems that are used to regulate and automate lighting levels, colors, and other parameters.
Lighting design software is a type of computer program that is used to <i… #
Lighting design software is a type of computer program that is used to create and simulate lighting designs, which can help streamline the design process and improve accuracy.
Lighting fixture is a device that holds a light source and dire… #
Lighting fixture is a device that holds a light source and directs its light, which can be designed to provide specific types of lighting, such as task lighting or ambient lighting.
Lighting maintenance refers to the process of cleaning , inspect… #
Lighting maintenance refers to the process of cleaning, inspecting, and replacing lighting fixtures and systems, which can help ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Lighting management system is a technology that is used to monitor … #
Lighting management system is a technology that is used to monitor and control lighting systems, which can help optimize energy efficiency and reduce waste.
Lighting scheme refers to the overall plan or design for a lightin… #
Lighting scheme refers to the overall plan or design for a lighting system, which can include the selection of light sources, fixtures, and controls.
Lightning protection is the process of protecting a building or mo… #
Lightning protection is the process of protecting a building or monument from lightning strikes, which can be achieved through the use of lightning rods, arresters, and other protective devices.
Lumen is a unit of measurement for luminous flux, which represents… #
Lumen is a unit of measurement for luminous flux, which represents the total amount of light emitted by a light source.
Luminaire is a device that produces light, which can be designe… #
Luminaire is a device that produces light, which can be designed to provide specific types of lighting, such as task lighting or ambient lighting.
Lux is a unit of measurement for illuminance , which represents the… #
Lux is a unit of measurement for illuminance, which represents the amount of light that falls on a surface.
Maintenance factor refers to the percentage of light that is lost … #
Maintenance factor refers to the percentage of light that is lost due to dirt, dust, and other factors, which can be affected by the type of light source and fixture used.
Mesopic vision refers to the range of light levels that are between</b… #
Mesopic vision refers to the range of light levels that are between photopic and scotopic vision, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are safe and effective.
Microprismatic lenses are a type of optical lens that is used to contr… #
Microprismatic lenses are a type of optical lens that is used to control and direct light, which can be used in various lighting applications, including display lighting and task lighting.
Mockup is a scale model or simulation of a lighting design, which… #
Mockup is a scale model or simulation of a lighting design, which can be used to test and refine the design before implementation.
Monument lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illumi… #
Monument lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illuminate and highlight historic monuments and landmarks, which can be used to enhance the visual appeal and significance of the monument.
Motion sensors are devices that detect movement and automatical… #
Motion sensors are devices that detect movement and automatically turn on or off lighting fixtures, which can be used to conserve energy and improve safety.
Mounting height refers to the distance between the lighting fixtur… #
Mounting height refers to the distance between the lighting fixture and the surface it is illuminating, which can affect the amount of light that is delivered.
Natural light refers to the light that is naturally available from… #
Natural light refers to the light that is naturally available from the sun or other celestial bodies, which can be used to supplement or replace artificial lighting.
Nighttime lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illum… #
Nighttime lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illuminate spaces during the night, which can be used to enhance the visual appeal and safety of the space.
Occupancy sensors are devices that detect the presence of people i… #
Occupancy sensors are devices that detect the presence of people in a space and automatically turn on or off lighting fixtures, which can be used to conserve energy and improve safety.
Optical fiber lighting is a type of lighting that uses optical fib… #
Optical fiber lighting is a type of lighting that uses optical fibers to transmit light, which can be used to create unique and flexible lighting effects.
Outdoor lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illumin… #
Outdoor lighting is a type of lighting that is designed to illuminate outdoor spaces, such as gardens or public parks.
Overcurrent protection is the process of protecting a lighting sys… #
Overcurrent protection is the process of protecting a lighting system from overcurrent conditions, which can be achieved through the use of fuses, breakers, and other protective devices.
Overheating refers to the phenomenon of a lighting fixture or system e… #
Overheating refers to the phenomenon of a lighting fixture or system exceeding its recommended temperature, which can be caused by poor design or inadequate cooling.
Photobiology refers to the study of the effects of light on liv… #
Photobiology refers to the study of the effects of light on living organisms, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are safe and effective.
Photometry refers to the science of measuring light, which can be… #
Photometry refers to the science of measuring light, which can be used to evaluate the performance of lighting fixtures and systems.
Photopic vision refers to the range of light levels that are above … #
Photopic vision refers to the range of light levels that are above 10 candela per square meter, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are safe and effective.
Power factor refers to the ratio of real power to apparent … #
Power factor refers to the ratio of real power to apparent power, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are energy-efficient and cost-effective.
Power quality refers to the characteristics of the electric power… #
Power quality refers to the characteristics of the electric power supply, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are reliable and efficient.
Preservation refers to the process of protecting and conserving… #
Preservation refers to the process of protecting and conserving historic buildings and monuments, which can include the use of sensitive lighting design and preservation techniques.
Radiometry refers to the science of measuring electromagnetic radi… #
Radiometry refers to the science of measuring electromagnetic radiation, which can be used to evaluate the performance of lighting fixtures and systems.
Recessed lighting is a type of lighting that is installed in a … #
Recessed lighting is a type of lighting that is installed in a recessed area, such as a ceiling or wall, which can be used to create a clean and minimalist appearance.
Reflectance refers to the amount of light that is reflected by a <… #
Reflectance refers to the amount of light that is reflected by a surface, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are energy-efficient and effective.
Reflector is a device that is used to reflect and direct li… #
Reflector is a device that is used to reflect and direct light, which can be used in various lighting applications, including display lighting and task lighting.
Reliability refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to p… #
Reliability refers to the ability of a lighting fixture or system to perform consistently and reliably over time, which can be affected by factors such as quality and maintenance.
Remote monitoring is the process of monitoring and controlling<… #
Remote monitoring is the process of monitoring and controlling a lighting system from a remote location, which can be used to improve energy efficiency and reduce waste.
Restoration refers to the process of restoring a historic building… #
Restoration refers to the process of restoring a historic building or monument to its original condition, which can include the use of sensitive lighting design and preservation techniques.
Safety factors refer to the considerations that are used to ensure … #
Safety factors refer to the considerations that are used to ensure the safety of a lighting system, which can include electrical and structural integrity, as well as emergency preparedness.
Scotopic vision refers to the range of light levels that are below … #
01 candela per square meter, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are safe and effective.
Shielding refers to the process of blocking or reducing ele… #
Shielding refers to the process of blocking or reducing electromagnetic radiation, which can be used to protect people and equipment from harmful radiation.
Sight lines refer to the lines of sight that are used to orient… #
Sight lines refer to the lines of sight that are used to orient and guide people through a space, which can be enhanced through the use of lighting and other visual elements.
Silhouette is the outline or profile of an object or person … #
Silhouette is the outline or profile of an object or person, which can be created using backlighting or other lighting techniques.
Simulator is a device or software that is used to simulate … #
Simulator is a device or software that is used to simulate and model lighting systems, which can be used to test and refine lighting designs before implementation.
Spectral power distribution refers to the distribution of light energy… #
Spectral power distribution refers to the distribution of light energy across different wavelengths, which can be important for designing lighting systems that are energy-efficient and effective.
Specular reflection refers to the phenomenon of light reflecting o… #
Specular reflection refers to the phenomenon of light reflecting off a smooth surface, which can be used to create highlights and accents in lighting design.
Spherical coordinate system is a mathematical system that is used to d… #
Spherical coordinate system is a mathematical system that is used to describe the orientation of light sources and objects in three-dimensional space.
Spill light refers to the amount of light that spills or overfl… #
Spill light refers to the amount of light that spills or overflows from a lighting fixture, which can be controlled using shields or other lighting accessories.
Standby power refers to the power that is consumed by a lighting s… #
Standby power refers to the power that is consumed by a lighting system when it is not in use, which can be reduced through the use of energy-efficient lighting technologies.
Step dimming is a type of dimming that involves reducing the light… #
Step dimming is a type of dimming that involves reducing the light output of a fixture in discrete steps, which can be used to create different ambiances and effects.
Steradian is a unit of measurement for solid angles, which can be… #
Steradian is a unit of measurement for solid angles, which can be used to describe the directionality of light sources.
Sustainability refers to the #
Sustainability refers to the