The
lighting design provides a stunning first look to the building as the ceiling
surface glows brightly and enhances the strong architectural features. The lighting is an extremely energy efficient
solution which utilizes the glass curtain walls in conjunction with daylight
harvesting ballasts and photocells to allow the fixtures to produce only as
much light as required. This system
balances a consistent light level on the work surface at all times of day and
throughout all seasons. The
pre-cast concrete vaults presented the largest challenge because they require
even illumination and they need to provide the practical light for the
workplace. A series of standard fixtures were explored to meet the design needs
and nothing ?off the shelf? fit the bill.
Custom indirect/direct fixtures were created to precisely
run the length of the linear vaults while following the interior curves of the
space. T5 (3?) or (4?) standard output 3500k fluorescent lamps are used to keep
the lumen output consistent down the runs.
The fixtures produces indirect lighting to fill the vaults with light
which the ceilings then direct the bounce light down to the work surface and
circulation areas. The entire space uses roughly half the energy of the ashrea
900.1 -1999 standard code, while still filling the space as a light beacon to
Loyola?s campus.