The Basics :
Light is measured in lux or foot-candles in the US.
It measures the amount of amount of light that arrives at a surface, not emitted by an object.
Some Common Lux Values Required:
Living Area / Bedrooms / Bathrooms : 200 Lux
Reading / Work Surface : 500-750 Lux
Sunny Day : 10000 Lux
Factors Affecting Lighting Levels:
Lux required is dependent on activity.
Its also affected by interior surfaces. Dark Matte Textured surfaces are least reflective. Light, glossy, smooth are the most.
And also age of the person using the space. As age increase, lux required increases.
Direction of lights affects its quantity & quality.
Mood can affect required lighting levels. And vice versa.
Other Definitions:
Standard domestic light bulb is called the tungsten bulb. It uses 5% of electricity to light up. The remaining is dissipated as heat. Thats why they get so hot.
CFLs -- or compact fluorescents -- consume less power.
Low Level light sources are comfortable for bedrooms.
For reading, information light -- i.e. light concentrated in a small area -- can be obtained through desk lamps or reading lights above the headboard.
Low level information light : near address boards, locks, front doors.
Other information lights include cupboard lights, oven lights etc.
Diffused Light or background light, is hidden, indirect and soft. Usually obtained by bouncing off other surfaces.
Directional light is focus light.
Strip lights if concealed can make heavy items 'float'. Usually used in halls -- since halls require warm welcoming light (not too bright)
Candlelight.
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