![[Staging] Willie Duggan](https://staging.willieduggan.com/content/uploads/2017/10/logo.svg){kind=logo}
Glare is one of the most common and overlooked problems in lighting design. Yet it has a major impact on how comfortable a space feels.
In simple terms, glare causes visual discomfort when brightness or contrast becomes too strong within our field of view. This usually happens when a light source appears much brighter than surrounding surfaces. It can also occur when light reflects sharply off materials and into our eyes.
As a result, a space may meet technical lighting requirements and still feel harsh or tiring to live in. For this reason, designers should consider glare control from the beginning of any lighting scheme.
To see how we manage and reduce glare in our projects, explore our case studies.
Three Common Causes of Glare
Visible Light Sources
First, visible light sources often create glare. When the LED inside a fitting is directly visible, the light can feel piercing to the eye. This effect becomes even stronger when people view the fitting from a seated position. Therefore, deep recessed fittings or downlights with dark inserts help shield the light source and reduce glare.
Reflective materials
Secondly, reflective materials can amplify glare. Polished stone worktops, gloss cabinetry, and stainless steel appliances can all produce strong highlights when direct light hits them.
Excessive contrast
Finally, excessive contrast often causes discomfort. For example, a ceiling filled with evenly spaced bright downlights creates multiple points of intense brightness that draw the eye.
Reducing glare requires balance across the lighting scheme. Layering ambient, task, accent, and decorative lighting softens contrast and creates a calmer environment.
Good lighting design is not only about how a space looks. It is about how comfortable it feels to live in.
Have a look at another blog post of ours where we delve further into glare! https://willieduggan.com/about/blog/ugr-unified-glare-rating-downlighting/
