Architectural lighting designer
Architectural lighting designers develop the concepts, plans, and specifications for indoor and outdoor lighting systems for the built environment.
| Quick facts: Architectural lighting designer | |
|---|---|
| 2021 Median Pay | $77,030 per year; $37.03 per hour |
| Typical Entry-Level Education | Bachelor's degree |
| Number of Jobs, 2021 | 29,300 |
| Job Outlook, 2021-31 | 2% (slower than average( |
| Employment Change, 2021-31 | 2,700 |
Architectural lighting designers combine the knowledge of art, science, engineering, physiology, psychology, and business to provide high-quality illumination to improve the visual appeal, environmental performance, and social equity of places and buildings.
How to become an architectural lighting designer
A bachelor’s degree in architectural lighting design, theatrical lighting design, architecture, interior design, or electrical engineering is usually required for most entry-level architectural lighting design jobs. It is also important to have a portfolio with examples of exemplary academic and/or professional design projects. Most design programs include courses for the skills that architectural lighting designers need: illumination design theory and engineering, photometric modeling and calculation techniques, lighting technology and manufacturing methods, architectural and interior design process, and graphics sketching and computer-aided design techniques. Coursework in environmental studies and/or sustainability will help provide an important context for sustainable design.
Many schools require successful completion of some basic art and design courses before entry into a bachelor's degree program. Applicants also may need to submit sketches and other examples of their artistic ability. Important skills include creativity, three-dimensional visualization, critical thinking, active listening, and complex problem-solving.
Jobs that work with architectural lighting designers
- Architect
- Building managers
- Building systems engineer (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, etc.)
- Building systems design consultant (IT, AV, security, kitchen, display, etc.)
- Construction managers and contractors
- Interior designer
- Landscape architect
- Manufacturers
- Sustainability specialist
- Urban or campus planner
Pathways to architectural lighting design
- Architectural assistant
- Electrician
- Lighting equipment manufacturing
- Lighting or electrical sales
- Theatre or film technician
Education and resources
Access courses and resources to learn about green building and sustainability concepts related to architectural lighting design.
Online courses
Stay up to date on the latest developments in green building through access to online courses with an annual subscription to the USGBC course catalog.
Resources
Explore resources to support a career in architectural lighting design.
Role on a LEED project
In the green building realm, architectural lighting designers integrate daylighting and electric lighting concepts to provide exceptional visual quality, but also environmentally and socially beneficial spaces. Architectural lighting designers work with architects, building systems engineers, other consultants, facility managers, and community stakeholders to develop lighting designs, documentation, and specifications to meet the aesthetic, practical, and budgetary requirements of each project. This includes the consideration of the long-term, life-cycle environmental and social impacts of the recommended luminaires and lighting equipment, as well as effects on human health and wellness.
LEED is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Available for virtually all building types, LEED provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement and leadership.
Architectural lighting design has an impact on several LEED credit categories, but particularly the categories of Sustainable Sites, Energy & Atmosphere, and Indoor Environmental Quality.