LED Lighting: What the Craze is All About

Light emitting diodes, or LEDs, are semiconductors that emit light when voltage is applied. Although they’ve been around in limited form since the 1960s, it wasn’t until the last decade that they gained in popularity as an energy efficient lighting source. With a high light output and a wide range of colors available, LEDs are now used for both general and targeted lighting.

Along with many lighting design ideas, LEDs offer great benefits over traditional light sources. LEDs produce unidirectional light, which means luminaries are more focused and don’t spread light uncontrollably. They produce bright white light using only a fraction of the energy other sources consume, and they have a much longer lifespan than any other light. Since they don’t contain any mercury or lead, they’re also environmentally friendly.

LED lighting design ideas are evolving rapidly for both indoor and outdoor applications. Ambient lighting works particularly well with LED technology due to the ease at which dimmers can be added for multiple level lighting. This might include backyard lighting around your pool and direct lighting for walkways and cooking stations. Colored LEDs on a dimmer can softly highlight various points of interest.

Task lighting is another reason to take advantage of the benefits of LED lights. Bright, natural and unidirectional light means the work area can be well-lit without having to light up the entire room. You can also take advantage of this form of lighting to highlight focal points in your home, such as works of art or conversation areas.

TMS Architects focuses on organic architecture, meaning we pay particular attention to the nature of the site, the needs of our clients and the materials used in our projects. As experts in sustainable architecture, we can help you create the perfect balance between nature and human habitat. Visit our online portfolio to gain inspiration, and contact us to learn more.