The Effect of Luminance Distribution on Interior Perception

There are several factors that influence visual comfort in an interior. One of them is the luminance distribution of surfaces. In this study, the luminance distribution has been treated in terms of high luminance contrasts on interior surfaces caused by defective lighting applications. Great differences in luminance of a surface are perceived as light stains, light lines, and reflected luminances, which create, in the architecture project not involved, images and damage the interior. The light stains and lines occurred are mainly related to the features of lamp, luminaire, and luminaire position; the reflected luminances appear dependent on these factors as well as the characteristic of room surfaces. The mentioned negativities can be prevented by appropriate decisions concerning the lighting equipment choice, number, placement, and the characteristic of room surfaces. The visual evaluation of luminance is made by brightness. In this study, an approach is developed to evaluate the effect of the differences in luminance/brightness of surfaces on interior perception. In accordance with this approach, the acceptable differences in luminance, which don't create light stains/lines on surfaces, are determined. The luminance ratios graded according to visual impression are created on surfaces of some example rooms, and the visual evaluation of the theoretical results obtained in this study is ensured.