Urban lighting: a major design [study] submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma of Landscape Architecture, Lincoln College

Abstract

Light is a substance which can be manipulated and sculpted to render environmental form. It has dynamic and versatile qualities requiring much understanding and skill to shape and position it. Urban Lighting as a title represents a broad range of artificial lighting in the exterior urban environment. The integration of all the many separate and distinct lighting patterns and designs into one whole network forms the urban light mass. The environment is exposed by light and lighting and is so rendered useful and meaningful to its inhabitants. Artificial light can be seen as a component of urban form. It is a visible 'building block' rather than a 'building implement'. The lighting designer must construct a container for it and direct its use and application. As a 'building block', it forms the type and degree of visual experience. Urban societies have exhibited the necessity for artificial light. Outdoor lighting systems have to respond to human needs and requirements. Artificial light has to function and serve the demands made of it. It serves to make visible the urban environment and form the appropriate character and ambience by spatial manipulation. Environmental lighting design requires the co-operative effort of many skilled designers and professionals for it is an applied science and an applied art. The Landscape Architect can make a significant input into planning for lighting, lighting design and application. His involvement is to be substantial if the night environment is conceived as similar to that of its daily counterpart for utility, recreation and amenity use.