The Intersection of Lighting Design and the Circular Economy

Lighting design plays a crucial role in creating a comfortable and functional environment for both residential and commercial spaces. However, traditional lighting design often relies on linear systems that are not sustainable or circular in nature. With the increasing awareness and interest in the circular economy, lighting designers are now looking for ways to incorporate circular principles into their designs.

One example of this is the use of LED lighting. LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are highly energy-efficient and have a long lifespan, making them a great option for circular lighting design. They are also easily recyclable, which is a key aspect of circular design.

The use of natural light is also an important aspect of circular lighting design. By designing buildings and spaces that allow for ample natural light, designers can reduce the need for artificial lighting, saving energy and resources. One example of this is the use of skylights and light wells in buildings. The "Daylight House" in London, designed by architect Bill Dunster, is a good example of this principle in action. The house is designed to make the most of natural light, with skylights and light wells throughout. "By designing buildings and spaces that allow for ample natural light, designers can reduce the need for artificial lighting, saving energy and resources." - Bill Dunster, architect of Daylight House in London.

Another example is the use of smart lighting systems. These systems use sensors and automation to adjust lighting levels based on the amount of natural light present in a space, further reducing the need for artificial lighting. The "Smart Green Office" in Amsterdam, designed by the firm D/DOCK, is a great example of this principle in action. The office uses a smart lighting system that adjusts lighting levels based on the amount of natural light present in the space, saving energy and resources. "The Smart Green Office not only reduces energy consumption, it also improves the quality of the indoor environment and the well-being of the people who work there." - D/DOCK, designer of Smart Green Office in Amsterdam

The Philips LivingLab in the Netherlands is a living laboratory for circular lighting design. The facility is designed to be fully circular, from the materials used to the way the building is used and maintained. The LivingLab features a range of innovative lighting solutions, including LED systems that can be easily upgraded and reused.

Reusing and repurposing existing lighting fixtures is another important aspect of circular lighting design. The "Lighting Library" in Amsterdam, designed by the firm Studio Drift, is an example of this principle in action. The library features a collection of vintage and repurposed lighting fixtures, showcasing the potential of circular design. "The Lighting Library is a celebration of repurposing and the beauty of imperfection. By collecting and displaying vintage and repurposed lighting fixtures, we hope to inspire others to think differently about the potential of circular design" - Studio Drift, designer of Lighting Library in Amsterdam

The PNC Plaza in Pittsburgh, USA, is another prime example of circular design in action. The skyscraper features a unique double-skin façade that allows for natural light to enter the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Additionally, the building's lighting system is controlled by a sophisticated building management system that can adjust the lighting based on occupancy and daylight levels.

There are many other examples of circular lighting design from around the world, such as the use of solar-powered lighting and the incorporation of living plants in lighting design, that demonstrate the intersection of lighting design and the circular economy. By incorporating circular principles into lighting design, designers can create spaces that are not only functional and comfortable, but also sustainable and resource-efficient.