All You Need to Know About Facade Lighting

When it comes to designing the exterior of buildings after dark, facade lighting plays an important  role. At MASQ, we offer three main types of facade lighting solutions to meet your requirement and the needed atmosphere:

1. From the Floor: Lights can be installed on the ground and pointed upwards to illuminate the facade from below. This draws the eye upwards and makes the building appear taller.
2. From the Ceiling: Luminaires mounted on soffits or overhangs wash the facade with light from above. This softens angles and surfaces.
3. From the Wall: Wall-mounted lights directly illuminate the facade material itself. This method highlights textures and architectural details.

In many cases, the best approach combines all three types of lighting. For example, up-lighting from below can work harmoniously with downlighting from above to accentuate different design elements. The stunning lighting of the renovated Mina district - Old Port Doha was designed by including all three facade lighting solutions. Our design was focused on reflecting the colorful mood of the space while maintaining the same traditional spirit to enhance the project identity in a reasonable and affordable way. 

Different Facades, Different Applications

The facade's structure also influences our lighting recommendations. Some common facade designs and how we approach their illumination include:

1. Solid facades display lighting most effectively straight-on. Direct wall-mounted luminaires call attention to materials, patterns and finishes.
2. Perforated facades enable light to filter through from behind. Backlighting creates shadows to enliven the appearance at night.
3. Banded facades with horizontal or vertical divisions showcase alternating light and dark stripes after nightfall. ForQatar University’s Project, The vertical volumes of the façade were highlighted to enhance the geometric elements, as well as the protruding elements of the architecture. 
4. Transparent facades enable light to enter interior areas, giving them a radiant appearance from within.

Accent lighting adds dimension to recessed or projecting parts. Grazing fixtures attract attention to interesting architectural features. Your facade comes to life with MASQ thanks to thoughtful lighting that is tailored to each of its distinct features.

Why Facade Lighting Matters

Three primary functions are served by the right facade illumination. By exposing the composition and proportions of the building, it first establishes its structure. Second, well-lit facades draw clients and occupants well after sundown, raising a building's market value. Third, adding lights to improve architectural aesthetics raises the resale value and aesthetic appeal of the neighborhood.

At MASQ, we have the experience to make sure that your facade shines just as brightly after dark on the exterior as the activities inside. To improve the appearance of your building at night with thoughtful exterior lighting design, get in touch with us right away.

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