Design for Darkness: Reevaluating Well-Lit Cities, Dark-Skies and Wilderness Environments
Lucio Cavallari, December 2023
Designing for darkness is a multifaceted endeavour, that encompass a wide range of values that span from social, economic, aesthetic and educational dimensions. Darkness transcend mere aesthetics.
One crucial facet is the social dimension is how nocturnal design impact communities’ well-being and safety, design interventions should prioritise inclusivity, ensuring secure and accessible environments for all members of the community.
How to minimise light pollution becomes paramount as the ecosystems and natural habitats are effected by light pollution in a negative manner.’Designing for darkness’ should consider energy efficiency, exploring sustainable lighting solutions that mitigate ecological footprints and reduce resource consumption.
The adaptation of light conditions becomes crucial in response to climate change. Should the need arise for a reduction in electricity use, ambient illuminances could be scaled down. Conversely, if exposure to light is recognised as a significant contributor to health, there may be a need to increase ambient illuminances in spaces where people spend a substantial number of hours a day1.
The dynamics of lighting and spatial distribution are critical components to be addressed in the broader context of well-lit cities and the implications for the wilderness environment. Aesthetic values should extend beyond visual appeal to encompass the emotional and psychological resonance of the night-time experience. Cultural and historical perspectives must be integrated, recognising the symbolic significance of darkness in diverse societies. The economic benefits of nocturnal design, including potential tourism and commercial opportunities, warrant attention.
Studies suggest2 that light emanating from the blue portion of the spectrum may have significant detrimental effects on both fauna and flora. Consequently, the lighting designer is advised to take into account the spectral power of the light source, specifically its blue light component. It is crucial to strive for a balance that meets the illumination requirements of the task at hand while being mindful of the potential impact on the surrounding fauna and flora in the environment.
I believe education is a crucial element in changing attitudes and behaviours toward the value of darkness in urban environments. In many societies, darkness has been associated with negative connotations historically and culturally, and addressing this perception is an important step in promoting responsible lighting practices and the preservation of natural darkness.
Efforts to promote the value of darkness in urban environments can be effectively augmented by incorporating education through a multifaceted approach. Public awareness campaigns, integrating lessons and activities related to responsible lighting into school curricula creates a lasting impact by engaging young students in understanding these crucial issues. Community engagement takes centre stage through workshops, seminars, and public lectures covering topics like light pollution, the night sky, and sustainable lighting design, tailored to different age groups and interests. Guided nighttime tours of dark-sky-friendly areas offer an experiential dimension, allowing participants to delve into astronomy, explore nocturnal wildlife, and grasp the advantages of minimal lighting. Collaboration with astronomers, environmentalists, and local experts enhances educational programs, providing insights into the intrinsic value of darkness. Art, culture, and storytelling become powerful educational tools, with installations, plays, and literature contributing to a cultural shift in the perception of darkness. This comprehensive educational approach aims to foster a societal shift, leading to the widespread adoption of responsible lighting practices and the preservation of natural darkness in urban areas, benefitting both people and the environment.
- Boyce, Peter & Brandston, HM & Cuttle, Christopher. (2022). Indoor lighting standards and their role in lighting practice. Lighting Research & Technology. 54. 147715352211264. 10.1177/14771535221126413. 6 ↩︎
- Institution of Lighting Professionals. (n.d.). Guidance Note 1 for the reduction of obtrusive light 2021. [online] Available at: https://theilp.org.uk/publication/guidance-note-1-for-the-reduction-of-obtrusive-light-2021/. 5 ↩︎