Lighting Systems

Lighting systems are deigned primarily for performance, accent, and energy efficiency.  Performance lighting is often designed to blend in with the building lines and not to draw any attention. The fixtures are selected to provide general illumination for working surfaces, walking, and are the primary light sources for a space. Fluorescent and incandescent fixtures are typically selected for indoor applications with variation of shape, lamp color, and lenses to achieve the illumination necessary for an occupant to function within a space.

Accent lighting is often designed with visible fixtures that provide a softer light to create atmosphere and evoke the viewer's mood. The fixtures are selected to provide specialty illumination for architecturally significant building features, artwork, and other distinct pieces.  Metal halide or halogen fixtures are typically the fixtures of choice for indoor and outdoor applications with variations of size, shape, and style to achieve the visual comfort for the occupant.

Energy efficient lighting is designed by selecting performance and accent lighting that consumes less power (watts) per light output (lumens), by locating fixtures to maximize their distribution, and by selecting energy saving controls. A fixture's efficiency can be increased through energy efficient electrical components, reflector design, and lens design. Fixtures are chosen that incorporate energy efficient features while still providing the necessary illumination and styling required. To minimize the number of fixtures required, higher wattage fixtures are selected, but located further apart. To further cut down on power consumption, lighting controls are often implemented. Fixtures can be dual switched to provide two light levels, wired with occupancy sensors that turn off the lights when a room is not occupied, or even dimmed automatically when daylight is available. PTA strives to design energy efficient performance and accent lighting systems.