The Mechanics
The wattage usage of every light source in a design must be calculated and reconciled to the project’s square footage. The workplace today is lit primarily with LED lights, which is a plus because LED technology produces more light using fewer watts than traditional incandescent lights (that can no longer be manufactured or sold in the US as of August 2023). Nevertheless, when target LPDs are very ambitious, the design of compelling, illuminated spaces within the allowed wattage is challenging.
In addition, to meet code and plan for the life of a project or building the lifespan of an LED has to be considered. The usable lifespan of LED fixtures is often rated beyond 50,000 hours, lasting more than 11 years if used 12 hours a day. But an LED’s lumen output degrades with age.
With all this top of mind, the key is to use lighting watts judicially, creating engaging, optimally distributed illumination that makes people feel comfortable and engaged with the space they occupy. For that to happen, lighting has to be strategically designed and deployed where it matters most, for example, to illuminate art installations, environmental design statements, or brighten public areas.
This is where micro lighting—integrated lighting meticulously designed at a very detailed level—comes in. Not all spaces within a project need or necessarily benefit from the same level or quality of light (think bright reception vs. moodier lounge areas). Cove lighting is a simple example of micro lighting. It fully integrates with the architectural elements to create a contrast for greater visual impact with an economy of watts. To comply with code and ensure best wattage allocation, micro lighting is poised to play an increasingly important role in the future of lighting design.
