In the realm of architecture and urban design, the significance of façade lighting is becoming increasingly evident. Of late, Façade lighting has proven to be a transformative force in urban landscapes, redefining the character of buildings, and preserving the cultural legacy of heritage sites. The interplay of light and architecture brings life to cities after dark, turning them into captivating and vibrant spaces. Many architects and designers today are harnessing the potential of facade lighting to define the character of buildings with captivating lighting effects and transform cityscapes into entrancing nocturnal vistas.
Government’s push for façade lighting
India is undergoing rapid urbanisation with a strong focus on infrastructural development. With the construction of modern buildings and urban landscapes, there has been a greater emphasis on aesthetics wherein facade lighting comes into play. Many state governments and local municipalities across India are encouraging the adoption of facade lighting for buildings. For example, Noida Authority has recently taken the initiative to amend building bylaws and mandating the use of façade lighting on buildings lining the expressway. The aim is to highlight the architectural features of buildings and structures along main roads while adding to the aesthetic appeal of the entire area.
Façade lighting has also gained importance in consideration of the India’s visionary ‘Smart Cities Mission’ which is aimed at improving infrastructure, public services, and overall quality of life in 100 cities across the country. These smart cities are continuously implementing smart solutions and leveraging technology, and one emerging aspect of this transformation is the implementation of advanced lighting systems, including façade lights, to revitalize urban landscapes. Many smart cities have used façade lighting to illuminate buildings and sites of cultural and historical significance in recent times. A few examples of such sites include Ganga Barrage in Kanpur, Varanasi Cantt Railway Station, and Bharathi Park in Pondicherry, which have undergone stunning transformations with Orient Electric’s facade lighting solutions, boosting tourism and instilling a sense of pride among the locals. As smart cities continue to evolve, facade lighting is expected to play an even more significant role in shaping the cityscapes.
Façade lighting promotes night tourism
India has several historical monuments, landmarks of cultural importance, and contemporary structures that are popular with tourists. Facade lighting can significantly enhance the nighttime experience for locals and tourists alike with the illumination of these sites. The use of façade lighting highlights the intricate architectural details of such buildings, narrating tales of a bygone era. The use of different lighting solutions, designs and colours can create visually appealing effects on buildings and landmarks, making the city more attractive and vibrant during nighttime. This results in more visitors exploring the area which benefits local businesses thus boosting nighttime economy. Also, these illuminated historical buildings serve as an ideal backdrop for organising nighttime events and shows, further attracting tourists. State governments are increasingly using Facade lighting during festivals and special occasions to decorate sites of cultural and historical significance to create a festive ambiance. Some examples in this regard include the prominent buildings such as Rail Bhawan, Baroda House and Travancore House in New Delhi lit in Tricolour with façade lighting solutions on India’s 77th Independence Day.
In addition to this, facade lighting also helps in creating safer and more secure urban spaces for both residents and visitors.
The Tech behind façade lighting
Facade lighting has seen significant technological advancements, enabled by advanced lighting control systems and automation technologies, which has made complex designs more accessible for a diverse range of projects. The adoption of LED technology brings in numerous benefits, including reduced energy consumption and lower maintenance costs. Lighting control systems offer precise programming and synchronization, enabling dynamic displays, captivating colour-changing effects, and adaptable automated schedules for various events. With the incorporation of RGBW technology, designers can explore an extensive colour palette, resulting in visually stunning and expressive lighting designs. Façade lights span LED Linear profiles, Spotlights, Projectors, Uplighters, Underwater lights, Controllers, and various accessories, thus providing a plethora of creative possibilities.
Façade lighting as a category is growing fast in India on the back of rapid urbanization and infrastructural growth coupled with the Government’s greater impetus on decorating and illuminating prominent buildings and monuments. As the Indian cities continue their focus on creating more vibrant and visually appealing environments, façade lighting is expected to gain widespread adoption in the country.
The author, Puneet Dhawan, Executive Vice President & BU Head – Lighting , Switchgear & Wiring Accessories, Orient Electric
