Environmental Lighting Design -LIGHT HUNT

student
Learning Goal: I’m working on a writing discussion question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

I can provide two examples and the name of the restaurants if you dont have one

design Assignment: For this essay assignment, you are to visit a relatively new, notable, or

timelessly designed restaurant interior in San Diego with the intention of absorbing and
appreciating the lighting design scheme observed in a nighttime environment. Due to the
pandemic, and depending on mandates at the time of the assignment, if you are not able to
visit a restaurant in person, please visit the project virtually via the internet (restaurant website,
designer’s website, publications, etc). You are to then write a brief but engaging essay
presenting an informed original opinion, accompanied by illustrative original photos, or cited
photos, documentation, of your experiences and observations.

What is an essay (courtesy of Courtney Martin):
A good essay is an informed original opinion paper, written in compelling language using
correct grammar. Present your own observations and opinions based on your knowledge
and understanding of design. You will need to look, analyze, and present a case for your
conclusions. There are no wrong opinions in an essay, just unsupported opinions.
Example: “I like this place because it has colored light” is a weak, unsupported opinion. A
better statement may read “The variation of light color and texture evokes a feeling of
energy and anticipation”, which demonstrates your knowledge as it applies to your
opinion.

Deliverables: A thoughtfully written analysis of the lighting scheme used in the restaurant. Please
include a ½ – 1-page overview of the restaurant itself, highlighting location, concept, theme,
date project was completed (if known), and major design features (layout, furniture, finishes, etc.)
and of the course overview of the “feel” of the lighting scheme and how it evokes certain emotions
and ties back into the design and branding concept. Please take original photos of layers of
light used in the space including lighting to choreograph an experience, ambient lighting,
accent lighting or lighting to create visual interest, and lighting used to draw attention to
architectural features (ex. uplighting columns or lighting concealed in the ceiling reveals), task
lighting (including a description of the color of light used and approximate color temperature ex.
2500-3000k and CRI), any multi-directional or semi-directional fixtures. Also include a section
describing the shapes of lighting fixtures used, including light sources. Include another page with
imagery and descriptions of the major fixtures used repeatedly or for the purpose of emphasis

(ex. oversized chandelier) throughout the design (ex. pendants, sconces, under-counter lighting,

recessed, semi-flush, flush, suspended, etc). Finally, analyze the success and failures of the
lighting design. Was the light layering approach used effectively? Does it support the overall
concept? What works? What doesn’t and why?