Architectural Lighting Design / SE Architektur 253.403
Course Description

Architectural Lighting Design 

Architectural Lighting Design is an advanced design seminar that investigates light as both a spatial and conceptual tool in architecture. Students engage with the material, perceptual, and psychological dimensions of light—through theoretical discourse and hands-on experimentation. At its core, the seminar explores how light shapes form, generates atmosphere, and contributes to spatial identity.

The course offers a comprehensive overview of lighting concepts, spanning historical developments to contemporary strategies. Topics include the evolution of daylight in architecture, the transition to artificial lighting, physiological and psychological aspects of vision, and architecture-specific approaches such as luminance-based design. Foundational theories—such as Richard Kelly’s typology of ambient light, focal glow, and play of brilliance—deepen the understanding of human-centered lighting design.

Technical factors such as color temperature, spectral distribution, and energy efficiency are explored as essential components of architectural lighting. Students examine the ecological impact of lighting choices and investigate daylighting strategies and sustainable technologies that balance spatial quality with environmental performance.

Seminar Focus 2026
This semester centers on conceptual approaches to light and space, drawing connections between ancient light rituals, baroque scenography, and contemporary, sensor-driven lighting technologies. Students investigate how light has been used to structure perception, convey meaning, and choreograph spatial experience.

Through practical design tasks, students develop conceptual prototypes that explore the interplay of light and space. Lighting simulation tools such as ClimateStudio and Relux support these investigations by enabling performance-based analysis of daylight autonomy, energy consumption, visual comfort, and thermal effects. Physical and digital model-making serve as essential methods for spatial and atmospheric exploration. Excursions to lighting designers, planners, artists, and built projects provide insight into the translation of conceptual ideas and environmental performance into architectural practice.

Assessment

Final evaluation will be based on attendance, active participation, and the analog and digital presentation of conceptual prototypes, including documentation of the design process.

Two seminar sessions will be held in the evening. The exact dates and times will be coordinated.