Getting your communal area lighting spot on

The right light for each area

When we design the light installations in the communal areas of residential estates, there are several factors we need to consider. For example, if there is any existing natural light, the layout of each area and what the space is used for. This last point refers to areas residents use for free time, relaxation, work, access to and from areas and so on.

Corridors

On the whole, the buildings and homes on estates have lots of corridors that residents use to access properties or communal spaces such as swimming pools, gyms, garages, etc. The lights in corridors tend to consist of a combination of recessed ceiling lights, wall lights and marker lights on floors and walls.

We need to ensure there is enough light in corridors to enhance visibility whilst also creating a relaxed atmosphere. It is important to avoid positioning luminaires in places where they end up causing a flicker effect that can be harsh on the eye.

In addition, since corridors are transit areas, we need to use fixtures with a good IP rating that are very resistant to humidity and dust. Recessed luminaires and spotlights come in a wide range of designs that can create the effect we are aiming for, whether this is classic or contemporary. The recommended minimum level of light is 50 Lux.

Entrances

Entrances shape our first impression of a building and project the image of homeowners and businesses. We need to take special care with the lighting in these spaces and focus on ensuring there is plenty of light and creating a warm, inviting environment.

We can achieve great results in aesthetics and energy efficiency by employing LED technology. For example, installing strip lighting on ceilings for ambient light that gives spaces a modern edge. If this is combined with recessed lights, it can improve visibility.

We must not forget to include emergency lights that switch on automatically when there is an electricity cut.

If we are aiming for an elegant touch, we can achieve this with directional lights and spotlights on walls, ceilings or the floor. We can also play with colours and other lighting effects to match the design and feel of the building.

Outdoor spaces

The options for outdoor spaces are endless. We may need to account for paths and transit areas, pools, sports courts, pergolas, gardened spaces and more. Each of these spaces require lighting that has optimum features in terms of visibility, aesthetics, functionality and energy savings.

We may choose to use flexible LED strip lights or bollards in combinations of white light and RGBW lighting, which are perfect for creating different ambiences. Luminaires are also great for dividing spaces up into different sections and making paths and access routes stand out. It is all about combining the ornamental facet of lighting installations with the practical purpose of luminaires.

Lifts

Spotlights, strip lights, panels and tube lights are all valid options for lifts. The aim is to ensure good visibility at all times but also create a relaxing atmosphere. In terms of how much light we need per metre square, this should be around 100 Lux. LED technology is a perfect choice because it is resistant and the lights in lifts are in use throughout the day. There are many different elegant and attractive designs to choose from to get the aesthetics just right. Strip lights at the top of the lift combined with recessed spotlights on the ceiling create a modern and relaxing vibe.

Things to keep in mind

There are several things to keep in mind when we set out to design the lighting in the communal areas of our residential estate. The main ones are explained below.

Energy savings

If we want to be as efficient as we possibly can, then we have to use the latest technology. Fixtures with LED technology are the way forward because they more resistant than conventional lights and consume less energy. In addition, corridors, hallways and other transit areas need to be equipped with motion sensors. By using sensors, we can deactivate systems when there is nobody around and make savings on our electricity bill.

Design

Lighting quite simply has to be a good match for the look and feel of any space. In addition, we need to be confident we are going to create the right ambience. We can only do this by using a solid grasp of interior design and lighting techniques as our starting point.

Visibility

The people using communal areas in buildings and around estates need to be able to see where they are going and feel at ease. Whether we are installing lights in corridors, hallways, lifts, gardens or pools, we need to ensure there is sufficient light and also make sure the space is inviting and safe.

SECOM residential building lights

At SECOM, we have lighting solutions that have been conceived specifically for all indoor and outdoor needs. Below are just some of the options.

• Ripa, RayBen and Amura luminaires have a modern design and provide functional lighting that is suitable for residential buildings.
• Amura for residential areas is a classic, fisherman-style luminaire that is installed as a suspended light.
• Auris. This system is suitable for gardens and parks of all kinds. It was designed specifically with the outdoor spaces on residential estates in mind.
• Aircom Supra. This downlight is suitable for ceilings at a height in excess of 3.5 metres.
• Belel. This IP65 flexible strip light is easy to install, flexible and comes with an adhesive strip that makes it ideal for adorning outdoor spaces.

There are different options to suit each specific case and they range from lamppost luminaires to recessed lights for corridors. The huge range of spaces that we need to illuminate in the communal areas of residential estates are what makes this such a difficult task. This is why we need to begin with an analysis of the space as a whole and use this as the basis for a coherent and efficient lighting project.