Lighting Evaluation Room 201

Lighting Evaluation

We individually analyzed a public office space used as the information center for the Interior Architecture program. We each observed the space at different times of the day. These times included around 10:45 am, 12:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. This space consists of two secretarial desks. Room 201, which includes both office space and a sitting area, is wider than it is deep. The wall behind the two desks consists mostly of windows. The light coming through these windows is balanced out over the desks with overhead lighting. Light is slightly dimmer at the seating areas, which gives them a more intimate feeling. The glass doors of the office allow electric light from the hallway to enter the room. To summarize, the dim balance of light makes the room seem calming, which is a nice feeling considering the use and the business of this space.

Compiled by Brooke Elliot, Allisyn Miller, Kat Sikes, and Felicia Dean

My own rating of the space from 1 (vague) to 7 (distinct) was as follows:

• distinct 3 vague
• faces clear 5 faces obscure
• bright 4 dim
• large 3 small
• spacious 4 cramped
• wide 4 narrow
• horizontal 3 to vertical
• colorful 3 colorless
• glare 4 no glare
• public 5 private
• relaxed 4 tense
• like 4 dislike
• satisfying 3 frustrating
• cheerful 5 somber
• interesting 4 somber
• interesting 4 monotonous
• beautiful 4 ugly
• pleasant 3 unpleasant

My overall impression was a 4. Some members got 3.5 - 5.

I think having us individually analyze the space, even at different time periods, reinforces the idea of lighting needing to be functionally, emotionally, and psychologically appealing during the rooms hours of operation. Overall it stayed very consistent in its appeal to the viewer. However, if the ability would of been there to access the space at night, with its electric light and that from the parking lot behind, would the space have evoked as neutral or calm of an impression as we all got during daylight hours? Also, might want to ask did the insulation quality of the walls, the the relaxed demeanor of the occupants, etc., play a role in the impressions? Or if the blinds were opened more or less, how would the room's lighting be affected? Overall, the electric light and natural light entering the room seemed to accomplish the task of creating a cozy environment, which is greatly appreciated in such a rigorous program.