| Having decided what to light
and how to light it, you're ready to decide what to light it with. The selection of lamps,
lighting fixtures and controls for each aspect of the project is best done in that order.
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Wall Washing
| Choose The Lamp
There is now a huge range of choices:
incandescent, halogen, low voltage, compact fluorescent, large fluorescent.
In making a decision, consider:
- light distribution desired
- color rendering
- color appearance
- electric energy consumed
- maintenance costs
Obtaining the desired light distribution depends on the choice of both the lamp and the
lighting fixture, because the lighting fixture should not only support the lamp, but
redirect its output into the desired zones and shield it so that it does not become a
source of glare.
Depending on whether the purpose is ambient, accent or task lighting, the required light
distribution may range from broad and widely diffused to narrow and focused. As a general
rule, fluorescent light sources are the most suitable for broad distributions; low voltage
incandescent are the most suitable for medium to narrow distributions. | Choose The Fixtures
The choice of lighting fixtures depends on several factors:
- intending light distribution, function or purpose
- appearance, style, or "goes with"
- mounting: recessed, surface, pendant, wall
- Type of buliding construction: new, existing, insulated
- product quality: detailing, finish, durability
- operating cost: energy, relamping, cleaning
- inital cost
| Choose The Controls
Choose lighting controls when you want to:
- change the lighting scene to suit the activity
- to set the mood
- create atmosphere
- extend lamp life
- save energy by not using the lamps full potential all of the time
- control the lights in one part of the house from another location
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