Five key considerations for modern university lighting

Universities are intricate ecosystems, a combination of varied spaces that serve diverse functions and user needs. In addition to being centres for academic and research excellence, universities are hubs of social interaction, innovation, and personal development.

Lighting up such a multifaceted environment requires more than basic illumination. Lighting design plays an integral part in shaping the space and the experiences of those who inhabit it.

John Gibson, Fagerhult's UK Specification Manager, highlights the company's expertise:

“I’d absolutely cite our flagship partnership with Queen Mary University of London. Fagerhult met the university's stringent lighting standards and is involved in both development and maintenance.  The partnership uses advanced lighting technology benefiting students and staff, reinforcing Fagerhult's strong track record in this area.”

1. Sustainability

Academic institutions aiming for higher levels of energy efficiency increasingly understand that lighting is essential. The impact of artificial lighting on an institution's carbon footprint is significant, making energy-efficient designs crucial for both immediate and long-term benefits.

Modern LED technology is increasingly replacing traditional lighting due to its energy efficiency and longer lifespan, reducing both energy consumption and the frequency of replacements. Motion sensor lighting further enhances energy conservation and security.

These sensors detect the presence or absence of individuals and adjust lighting accordingly, turning off lights in unoccupied areas and activating them when needed. This creates a dynamic, energy-efficient system adaptable to real-world conditions.

“We encourage clients not to simply default to price”, says John, “Instead we should think about energy efficiency first and foremost. Most universities are in use throughout the day, so we must think of energy waste. At Queen Mary University of London, we've even supported the slogan 'Green Mary University' to get across the importance of the message."

2. Integration with other systems

The Internet of Things (IoT) drives an ecosystem of interconnected services, lighting being an important aspect that can communicate with other components for seamless interactivity.

Fixtures can automatically adjust to environmental conditions like ambient temperatures. For example, colder temperatures might trigger warmer lighting hues, affecting people's perception of their environment. In warmer conditions, cooler lighting could reduce the need for aggressive air conditioning and energy use.

John explains: “IoT allows for centralised control over these diverse systems via a single platform. This centralisation gives administrators unparalleled oversight and control, so it’s easier to identify inefficiencies.

“Such a platform can monitor and adjust both the lighting and the heating systems in real time, giving a comprehensive and immediate oversight. Connectivity - such as used in Organic Response - simplifies maintenance schedules and when coupled with data can predict when to take preventive action.”

3. Population and usage feedback

Universities have to effectively manage resources, so understanding the movement and concentration of people is crucial. From lecture halls to libraries and cafeterias, each area has its unique requirements for lighting, heating, and security.

Real-time data collection is increasingly becoming an essential tool to achieve this understanding. Through sensors and IoT-enabled devices, universities can gather in-depth information on the footfall within various zones of the campus, ranging from classroom occupancy to library usage rates and even the flow of people in open spaces like quadrangles and pathways.

“A high-traffic lecture hall may require additional resources to ensure optimal lighting and temperature for the larger number of occupants,” John comments, “It is not just about immediate, reactive adjustments; this data also aids in long-term planning.

“Suppose specific patterns indicate a surge in library usage during examination periods. In that case, data can be used to plan for extra energy allocation during these peak times, ensuring that students have a conducive study environment.”

4. Tailored user experience

University campuses have diverse spaces with unique lighting requirements. The goal is to create a flexible and accurate lighting system that caters to each area's needs. Customisable, programmable fixtures enable optimal lighting for specific uses, such as bright lighting in laboratories and softer lighting in reading rooms.

Zoning in lighting enhances adaptability, allowing different areas within a large space like a multi-purpose hall to have distinct lighting controls. This flexibility accommodates various functions, from bright lighting for lectures to dimmer settings for social events.

John believes we cannot overlook the demographic diversity of a typical university campus:

“Students and staff represent a wide range of ages, each with their own set of visual needs. Older individuals often need brighter lighting conditions for optimal visibility, while younger individuals may be more comfortable with lower light levels. Age-sensitive lighting configurations can address this diversity.”

5. Functional diversity

The complexity of different settings requires bespoke lighting solutions rather than a uniform approach, as John explains:

“We often advocate a layered lighting strategy that combines various types of lighting—task, ambient, and accent—in a single space to meet diverse needs. For instance, a classroom could benefit from task lighting at workstations for focused work, while also incorporating ambient lighting for general illumination. Accent lighting could then be used to highlight specific areas or objects.”

John also underlines the importance of future-proofing these systems:” Given the fast-paced advancements in smart technology and energy-efficient solutions, it's crucial to design lighting systems that can be easily adapted to integrate future technological upgrades.”

Achieving these aims might involve selecting fixtures and control systems that adhere to open standards, enabling easier integration with next-generation technologies. Planning for adaptability today means the lighting infrastructure remains both functional and efficient in the years to come.

Consequences of poor lighting choices

Inappropriate lighting in a university setting affects more than just aesthetics or utility. It has immediate financial implications, increasing utility bills and escalating operational costs due to frequent maintenance needs. These issues are quantifiable and directly affect an institution's financial health.

Poor lighting has consequences beyond cost; it negatively impacts students' focus, information retention, and overall academic performance. Issues like eye strain and fatigue make it difficult for students to concentrate, leading to a decline in academic achievement over time. Proper lighting is crucial for optimal cognitive function.

Lighting can also significantly influence physiological processes, most notably circadian rhythms. Lighting conditions that are misaligned with natural circadian cycles can disrupt sleep patterns. Sleep is a vital component of both mental and physical well-being, particularly for university students who often face high levels of stress and rigorous academic demands.

John explains: “Lighting doesn't just illuminate a space; it defines how that space is experienced and used. Through careful planning and informed decision-making, universities can create lit environments that are not only functional and financially sustainable, but conducive to academic achievement and health.

“It’s our mission at Fagerhult to deliver lighting with efficiency, longevity, and with sustainability as a core consideration. Projects like those at Queen Mary University of London show we’re delivering on that commitment to give students and staff lighting that suits their diverse needs.”