illuminamento

Illuminamento is the distribution and consequence of light on a space or surface. In Italian technical language, the term refers to the act of lighting as well as the resulting illumination, and is often used interchangeably with illuminazione. While illuminamento can denote the practical act of applying light, it is also used to describe the analysis and design of lighting systems in architecture, urban planning, and related fields.

The concept centers on how light from one or more sources illuminates targets such as walls, floors, or work surfaces. Key photometric quantities involved in illuminamento include illuminance, measured in lux, which indicates how much light reaches a surface; luminous flux (lumen); and luminous intensity (candela). Luminance (candela per square meter) describes perceived brightness. Photometry and daylight analysis, combined with artificial lighting design, form the core methods used to evaluate and optimize illuminamento.

In practice, designing for illuminamento involves establishing appropriate light levels for specific activities, ensuring uniformity and avoiding glare, controlling color rendering and visual comfort, and balancing energy efficiency with maintenance requirements. The process relies on photometric data from light fixtures, simulations, and, when applicable, daylight integration to achieve desired distribution and performance.

Applications span architectural interiors, office and educational environments, museums and retail spaces, as well as urban and street lighting. Standards and regulations—such as European and Italian guidelines for interior lighting quality and road illumination—guide targets for illuminance levels, glare control, and color quality, promoting safety, comfort, and sustainability.

See also: Illuminazione, Lux, Lumen, Luminance, Photometry.