Architectural Lighting

Choosing Architectural Lighting for Your Project

The right mix depends on whether you're lighting interior spaces, the building exterior, or both. Use the fixture families below to narrow it down.

Architectural fixtures have to satisfy both the design and the engineering side of a project. A few considerations help you choose the right fixture for each location:

• Location & Environmental Rating
  • Exterior fixtures need the appropriate wet or damp location rating and weather resistance for where they're mounted.
  • Interior fixtures can prioritize visual comfort and a clean ceiling appearance over environmental sealing.

• Light Distribution & Glare
  • Interior spaces benefit from diffused or lensed output that controls glare for occupants and screens.
  • Exterior applications rely on the right optics and cutoff to put light where it's needed and limit spill and glare.

• Finish & Aesthetics
  • Keeping finishes consistent across interior and exterior fixtures gives a project a cohesive, intentional look.
  • Fixture profile and form should complement the architecture rather than compete with it.

• Color Temperature, Dimming & Controls
  • Select CCT and dimming to match each space, and pair fixtures with controls or sensors to improve efficiency and meet code.

What is architectural lighting?

Architectural lighting refers to fixtures specified for how they look as much as how they perform. They integrate cleanly into a building's design while delivering the output, efficiency, and durability a commercial project needs — covering interior fixtures like linear, pendant, cylinder, and grid-mount, plus exterior area, gooseneck, and wall pack lighting.

What types of fixtures are considered architectural lighting?

Common architectural fixtures include linear, square linear, X-shaped, and round pendant lights, plus cylinder and grid-mount fixtures for interiors, and post-top area lights, gooseneck and barn lights, and architectural wall packs for building exteriors.

How is architectural lighting different from standard commercial lighting?

Architectural fixtures emphasize clean design, finish, and form so they complement the building, while still meeting performance requirements. Standard commercial fixtures generally prioritize output and utility over appearance.

Can architectural lighting be used both indoors and outdoors?

Yes. Interior options include linear, pendant, cylinder, and grid-mount fixtures, while exterior options include area, gooseneck, and wall pack lighting. For outdoor locations, choose fixtures with the appropriate wet or damp location rating.

What color temperatures and finishes are available?

Many architectural fixtures offer selectable color temperature and wattage along with multiple finish options, which makes it easier to keep a consistent look across a project. Match color temperature to each space and pair fixtures with dimming or controls where needed.

Can you help me select architectural lighting for a project?

Yes. Our account managers can help you spec fixtures and finishes for a cohesive interior and exterior look. Contact us and we'll be glad to help.