Lighting Effects

Lighting is the finishing touch on any design. Lighting effects are powerful, and multi-dimentional. It sets the mood, draws emphasis, guides you through a space, and accentuates any focal point. The unique architecture at the GHM has a strong dramatic value with a 2-story volume lobby bathed with natural light. Special lighting considerations must be explored to compliment the space and direct the visitor's focus. Lighting effects for the GHM begins in the front courtyard with exterior flood lighting inter-mingingled within the landscaping to illuminate the entranceway at night. The lighting in the vestibule must be bright, but not harsh. The vestibule is a small space so the light fixtures should not overpower the space. Wall sconces with a marbled alabaster glass shading would provide unobtrusive, but bright illumination for visitors entering the museum. Directing the visitors to the welcome desk would require dramatic lighting effects to draw the visitors attention into the space. To create this effect we offer a variety of contrasting visual effects in conjunction with the materials and visitor interaction to provide this drama and interest. The bright natural light can be overpowering at various times in the day. An addition of a light shelf below the windows around the perimeter of the room would direct the natural light towards the ceiling diffusing the light and distribute it more evenly throughout the space. The light shelf can take on an added task with the addition of recesses lights to provide additional lighting needs around the perimeter of the room as needed for evening events. The auditorium entrance is recessed off to the side of the lobby, and is a secondary focal point when being used. Lighting up the back wall will draw the attention of the visitor to the attraction of the space. I'd like to create a theater marquis effect on the back wall with a "now showing" attraction banner. Lights within the stairs will help direct visitor up to the exhibits upstairs. Lighted signage will direct visitors to various side paths like rest rooms, elevator, and the storage cubbies. Various task lighting will be added to exhibits within the lobby space. The old Cadillac is a favorite attraction for the museum. A special mobile showcase needs to be constructed with attached task lighting to accentuate the lines of the car. Creating a starlight ceiling effect similar to the Weatherspoon Museum would add interest to the ceiling, and set a background ambient lighting scheme.