Characterization of library lighting design: a study of dynamic and static space

Abstract

The use of space is a fundamental variable in the creative process, so it is included in the lighting design. This paper presents a key to characterize the lighting space, to be used in the initial stages of architectural design. It aims to highlight the role of quantitative and qualitative lighting values of space. To carry on this study, two very different libraries have been analysed in Barcelona. The first case study corresponds to a university library whose function is reading and mainly individual study. The second case study, the community library, has a more participatory character with society, i.e. it includes reading spaces, meeting spaces, learning spaces for children and a conference hall. This research compares two library lighting design in terms of spatial configuration. Analysing false colour images reveals that there are different lighting intentions. The first case study shows that the difference between the luminance of the work area and the general environment is ten times greater. The second case study shows that the luminance in the work area is ten times less than the background. Therefore, it is suggested that the lighting design of those two libraries corresponds to the static and dynamic use of space.