We all agree that natural light is necessary and unique in interiors, but what happens in places where natural light cannot reach? And when it is already night? In these spaces where natural light does not reach, it is essential to use artificial lighting that is adapted to the space and the use we want to give it. 

There are many types of artificial lighting in architecture precisely for this, to reach where natural light does not reach and even create effects that would be impossible with it, do you want to know what they are? Here we tell you about them.

1. Direct or General
   This is the light that falls directly on a surface. Of all the types of artificial lighting in architecture, this is the perfect option both to illuminate specific points and to achieve a general light and combined with indirect light it is possible to achieve the perfect atmosphere you were looking for. However, its use must be carefully studied, since it is one of the types of artificial lighting in architecture that can be more intense and loaded.

- Downlight: these are ceiling lamps that project light downwards and incorporate a diffuser so that the light they provide is focused. These lights are usually used in groups to illuminate large spaces.

- Table lamps with lampshade: they are placed on a surface, and thanks to the variety of designs that exist, they have become one more element of the decoration of any room. The light they provide is perfect for spaces such as living rooms, where they are illuminated in a general way.

- LED strips in work areas: one of the most used options in work areas such as offices, where the brightness has to be sufficient to work without discomfort.

- Wall wash: this is a type of lighting that creates a light bath effect on surfaces such as walls, being a key element to highlight shapes and textures in architecture.

2. Indirect lighting
Unlike direct lighting, indirect lighting is a type of artificial lighting in architecture that illuminates through reflection. That is, the light is projected onto a surface and what is perceived is directly the reflection it causes, so it is a dimmer light and much less intense than the direct or general. Of the types of artificial lighting in architecture, this is the most suitable for creating a relaxed atmosphere, so it is widely used in rest areas. Within the indirect lighting we can talk about:

- Effect light: concealed in architectural or design elements and used both indoors to highlight architectural forms and outdoors on building facades.

- LED strips in curtains: a form of indirect light that does not dazzle and is ideal for places where not too much luminosity is needed.

- Ceiling coffers: by placing LED strip lights in ceiling coffers it is possible to frame specific areas and illuminate a room in an original and modern way.

- Walls: as in the troughs, LED lighting in the walls serves to frame the space and illuminate in a dim and diffused way, this time from the walls.

- Diffused light: it strikes from various angles, enveloping objects and providing a much softer type of illumination than direct light, and the shadows it generates are subtle and unmarked.

 - Accent light: the most suitable option to give more prominence to certain objects such as pieces of art or decorative elements.

Types of luminaires that can be used and ideas for applying these types of lighting.
Direct and indirect lighting are types of artificial lighting in architecture that can be applied through different luminaires, and the result you get can vary greatly depending on which one you use.

- Recessed: these are recessed luminaires that are usually used distributed in space. They should be separated from each other by a meter and a half and distanced from the wall to properly illuminate the entire room.

- Suspension: these are the traditional hanging lamps, the most common option used in homes and even restaurants and hotels to blend in with the interior design as an additional decorative element.

- Projector: this type of luminaire is classified according to the opening or dispersion of light, and can achieve a high luminous intensity in the area they illuminate, and can be applied in different areas.

- Ceiling surface: it is a luminaire with similar characteristics to the recessed luminaire, but in this case it is on the ceiling surface instead of being embedded.

- Wall surface: like ceiling surface luminaires, wall surface luminaires are placed on top of the ceiling. Both direct and indirect light models are available,

- Beacon or signaling light: this type of luminaire is intended to frame paths and signal passageways.

- Table lamps: these are the traditional luminaires that are placed on a table to create a relaxed atmosphere. They usually use shades to create a comfortable effect without glare.  

- Portable luminaires: these are luminaires that do not have built-in wiring, so they can be transported and placed where it is most convenient at any time. A very fashionable and demanded option for its versatility.

In FARO Barcelona we have a wide variety of types of artificial lighting, being one of the brands with the greatest variety in the market. Whatever the space you want to illuminate or the effect you want to achieve, here we have the perfect luminaire for you, tell us your project and we will advise you.