Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Creative Educational Lighting

Located at 103 South Jefferson St., in Richmond, VA, one will find the newly renovated VCU Brandcenter. The building is a combination of the reclaiming of one of Richmond's oldest hotels and an addition to the south wall of the existing structure. The space is unique, fun, and creative. Large fenestrations allow for more than enough natural light, however, the amount of natural light in the space is not overwhelming. In addition, skylights are used and the floors have been painted bright, vibrant colors to add to he warmth of the room. The floors have been painted with a medium-gloss finish which reflects the light very well. A staircase defines the separation between the existing structure and the new addition and above the staircase is a large, long skylight which allows for additional natural lighting in the space.

Even the study areas and basement are well lit. As you move down into the building the colors of the walls become lighter and then white so that the small amount of natural light illuminating the space can be utilized. As for the existing building, the front facade fenestrations are large enough and the interior space is open enough that the natural light illuminates the space quite well.

The light in the space is a warm and there is really nothing I would do to change the lighting. The team who worked on designing this project did an excellent job. Perhaps the only change I would suggest would be to try using solar tubing or fiber optics instead of traditional, artificial lighting in those areas that receive the least amount of daylight.


L.Miller

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