Lighting in Healthcare Design

Certain types of lighting in healthcare design can accomplish different things. In fact, lighting is one of the most important aspects of interior design. The light in a space defines much of what that space is. It sets the mood, highlights the importance of the space, and adds functionality. Using lighting properly in healthcare design can enhance a medical space significantly and have positive, healing effects on the patients. Here are four of the most common types of lighting healthcare designers use:

Natural Lighting or Day Lighting

Natural light is the single most important lighting type. Light from the natural world has the most healing power, but it can also be the most difficult to control. Healthcare designers must be innovative with their designs to properly incorporate natural light. They must take into consideration things like the time of the day, the weather, and the season, in relation to each individual space. It’s a difficult task to pull off. It’s more difficult to incorporate natural light in medical facilities compared to other spaces because of all the various needs a medical space requires, such as equipment. But if natural light is used well, it can make a huge difference.

Ambient Lighting

Ambient light is the second most important form of lighting. This lighting is used to evenly illuminate an entire room without any shadows or glares. Ambient light plays a major role in every room, but good designers will make sure that this kind of lighting integrates seamlessly into each space. Common ambient lighting fixtures include wall sconces, tracking lighting, and chandeliers.

Task Lighting

Task lighting is used to provide extra emphasis on one feature or section of space. This type of lighting is commonly found in homes, but it’s being used more and more in hospitals. Examples of task lighting include bedside lamps, under-cabinet lights, and directional reading lamps. This lighting can be used strategically throughout a medical facility to provide both visual hierarchy and functionality.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used primarily to highlight the design of the building. It can be a great way to enhance the aesthetics of a space. Accent lighting can be used to highlight and enhance features such as stairwells, well washers, the bottom edges of a hallway, or specific objects. Typically accent lighting fixtures will direct light in a particular direction to alter the appearance of a particular object. This lighting type is a great way to enhance the design and mood of medical facilities.

Marie Wikoff is the creator of Wikoff Design Studio based out of Reno, Nevada. Her expertise in healthcare design has helped modernize healthcare organizations locally, regionally, and internationally, improving patient experience and outcomes. Her credentials include Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification (EDAC), American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designer (CHID), the National Council of Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) and LEED AP. Contact Marie Wikoff