Light has different purposes.
It helps us see at night and go on with our lives, find our way, accomplish tasks. It can reveal architecture, highlight artwork and objects. It can contribute to enhance a space, adding depth and texture, creating a particular atmosphere. It can add drama, provide new emotions and influence the way we interact with our environment.
In a museum, you obviously want to highlight the artwork showcased, but not only. You need the proper lighting for visitors to find their way, make them feel comfortable. Revealing features of the space can also contribute to the visitor’s experience.
In a shop, you want to attract visitors by creating the atmosphere which identifies to the brand, you want to showcase the products, make people enjoy their shopping experience.
In a garden, you will highlight planters, trees, play with shadows, and allow way finding.
In a hotel, in a home, the light will celebrate the interior design, set a mood, allow actions or tasks to be executed.
All these different types of lighting need then to work together: These layers of light must be assembled, blended, to achieve the right balanced result.
This requires careful selection of light fittings, adequate lay-out, and the right control scheme.
This requires creativity and technical expertise.
This requires a good lighting designer.