A Qualitative Policy of Urban Lighting in the Master Plan [Understanding Urban Context when Developing a Lighting Plan?]

Urban Lighting Design

Gilles Arpin

Analyzing the context is the first step in establishing a lighting plan on a site. The context is of course first the site’s physical environment, its morphology: the location of the site on a promontory or in a valley, its alignment flush with or indented from the street, its proximity to a body of water or a large park… The approach must adapt to the urban form, whether it is a heritage district, urban centre, industrial park, suburb, shopping mall, entertainment district, campus, hospital, sports arena, or administrative centre.

As part of a lighting plan, it is necessary to expand our vision of the project’s mandate. The relationship with the surroundings, the doors or route of entry to the site, the hierarchy of traffic lanes, and elements of composition (buildings, architectural ensembles or landscape…), the perspectives or preferred views looking into or out from the site should all be listed.

The context is also the site’s social value or symbolism, and its urban or architectural value, too often forgotten or despoiled for the sole benefit of light “branding.”A lack of careful consideration often leads to too much light or too much colour, distorting the urban form and architecture. Light can certainly be festive but,given that it is noticeable only when reflected by something else, the object and its materiality which allows us to appreciate it deserves to be seen for what it is… unless of course you want to downplay it because it’s too ugly, but still need to make it relevant.

The existing or planned lighting context must be taken into account. I’m thinking particularly of traffic routes, the approaches to which may be dark or bright. A commercial street lined with illuminated shop windowsengages pedestrians and helps them feel safe,whereas the sudden absence of this bright contribution makes an uncomfortable contrast that requires balance. I also think architectural ensembles in which some buildings are already equipped with lighting must be integrated into the site’s overall visual hierarchy.

Finally, the context must include an analysis of how the site is used. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic studies help determine the hierarchy of traffic lanes, intersections, and pedestriansafety. Urban routes are the fabric of the city; they channel migration across districts and enable people to complete the everyday tasks of community life. Lighting musthelp distinguish the nature of these various pathways.

Open spaces, such as parks and public squares,also deserve careful consideration of their use. A park that is closed at night will not benefit from the treatment given toplaying fields, not only at the level of the equipment but also for controlsand curfews.

 

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE Expands Ontario Presence with New Specification Agent

    LEDVANCE is pleased to announce the appointment of Sterling Architectural Products Ltd. (Sterling Lights) as their new specification agent in Ontario. This partnership strengthens LEDVANCE’s presence in the region and reinforces their commitment to serving the professional lighting design and specification community with innovative, reliable lighting solutions. With decades of experience and a service-driven mindset,… Read More…

  • May 29, 2025 - Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka Wins Three 2025 Red Dot Awards for Product Design

    Eureka is pleased to announce that its Velia, Cirra, and Junction luminaires have each received a 2025 Red Dot Design Award for Product Design. It is the 11th consecutive year that Eureka products have been honored with this prestigious award, which is a testament to the company’s consistency and relentless drive to design exceptional luminaires.… Read More…


Design

  • The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    The Difference Between Accent, Ambient & Task Lighting: Ultimate Guide

    In interior design, lighting is not just about brightening the room. Sensitive lighting layout is the key in the whole aesthetic atmosphere. An outstanding lighting solution will not rely on one type of fixture. Rather, it is through the combination of different types of lighting. Accent, ambient, and task lighting are three basic types of… Read More…

  • Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors Enhance Their Office Space, Incorporating State-Of-The-Art Lighting Solutions

    Graphic Office Interiors, a renowned office design and furnishings company serving Vancouver Island since 1966, embarked on a unique lighting project for their personal office in Saanichton, BC. This project marked the first collaboration between Kelly Inglis of Mac’s II Agencies and Graphic Office Interiors’ in-house registered interior designer, Laura Harlos. Known for their exclusive Steelcase furniture line, modular moveable… Read More…


New Products

  • Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka Announces New Accessories for Scout Luminaire

    Eureka has announced the enhancement of its Scout luminaire family with the introduction of new accessories and a new color palette. Three new diffusers have been introduced. Bell is minimalist, translucent and cloche-shaped. Pebble introduces a soft touch and an ambient glow in a distinct, oval-shaped diffuser. Orb is sleek and dome-shaped, adding a touch… Read More…

  • Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    Amico: SOLAR ECLIPSE – 2X4 Multi-Functional Luminaire

    The Solar Eclipse Series provides a multi-functional luminaire that supports the demands of the hospital environment. The sleek and modern design merges architectural aesthetics with exceptional lighting performance to improve patient comfort while maximizing clinical efficiencies. This architectural patient room fixture offers reading, ambient, and exam functionalities and an optional night light. Multi-functional capabilities provide… Read More…