Technical Luncheon 2024: Lighting Design in the Outdoors & Minimization of Environmental Impacts with IES Toronto
February 5, 2024
February 21 12:00- 1:00 PM EST
The Psychology Behind Pedestrian Enjoyment at Night Through Illumination Design
Good News! We have lighting standards that help prevent motorists from killing pedestrians. But do you know how to design with light to create beautiful outdoor spaces people enjoy?
This presentation will delve into the intricate relationship between lighting design and pedestrian enjoyment in outdoor environments. We will explore how lighting is not merely a functional element for visibility and safety but also a profound psychological influencer on people’s emotions and actions. By integrating current research and IES standards, this session will discuss how illumination can transform the night-time experience, fostering a sense of safety, reassurance, and delight among pedestrians.
Learning Objectives
Lighting Design for Outdoor Pedestrian Spaces at Night
- Evaluate psychological factors contributing to feelings of safety and reassurance
- Utilize current research on human night-time perception and emotional responses to improve night-time experiences
- Explore how the interplay of light and shadow can be managed to optimize visual comfort and enjoyment, while also improving contextual awareness
- Improvve lighting designs by applying recommended practices from ANSI/UES LP-2-20 and RP-43-22, specific to light placement, light levels, contrast and unifroemity ratios, glare prevention, light pollution prevention and control scheduling.
Throughout the presentation, we will illustrate the objectives with real-world examples, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of how lighting design can create inviting and enjoyable night-time pedestrian environments.
About the Speaker
Chris Smith-Petersen, LC began his professional journey as a Psychiatric Clinician at a community hospital, where he honed his skills in the Emergency Room, as well as in Psychiatrics and Additions units. In 2004, he made a significant career shift to the lighting industry. Joining Color Kinetics, later rebranded as Signify. This company was among the pioneers in the commercial lighting sector, dedicating its efforts entirely to LED lighting and control technologies.
Over the past two decades, Chris has accumulated extensive experience across various roles in Sales, Product Marketing, and Product Development with multiple lighting manufacturers. His unique expertise is evident in the numerous lighting application and technology training programs he has developed, along with Continuing Education Unit (CEU) presentations. As a testament to his industry recognition, Chris has been invited as a featured speaker at the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) events on five occasions.
Leveraging his foundational knowledge in psychology and human perception, Chris has supported 100s of Lighting Designers with product specifications for landmark projects, including the CN Tower in Toronto, multiple bridges, skyscrapers, and interior lighting designs for offices, hotels, museums, retail and residential. Chris approaches every project with the aim to enhance occupant outcomes through thoughtful and innovative lighting solutions.
