Maymont Nature Center

Clerestory windows in Maymonts barn-like building allow ample daylight to fill the exhibit space. When I enter the space, its like being outdoors. Not only the natural exhibit design, but all the natural light. There are of course electrical lights, but seem to be minimum, and only used as supplements to the natural light. 

Since it is an exhibit about nature, the natural light feels very appropriate.

You can see here how natural the environment is rendered. This turtle seems happy!

Chipotle Reflectivity

I appreciate the design of Chipotle restaurants. The many windows allow ample natural light in and many metallic surfaces help to bounce the light around. Although its made of industrial materials, the restaurant has a nice bright feel.

The incandescent spot lights throughout help to warm the surfaces.

I like the way reflective surfaces make objects "disappear". I wonder how different the room would look if all of the surfaces were wood-smaller?

Hotel Sierra

The Hotel Sierra in Short Pump is like a showroom for artificial light. The lobby is large, so although they have large windows about, the light doesn't penetrate deeply into the space. Artificial light helps this. Mostly, I feel that the lighting helps to produce a posh, sexy, intimate feel about the space.

Hidden light sources allow this wall to have a life inside of it. Very organic.

By shrouding the massive structural columns with light the space feels lighter and more open.

The reflective paint in the floor helps to open the space up as well, bouncing light all over the place. It reminds me of a city street at night after the rain. Elderly people may have a difficult time with this.

Starbucks - Ceiling Panel Reflectivity

I took this photo while having coffee in the library, in Starbucks. The semi gloss finished ceiling panels reflect the window light , making the column of light twice as tall. It helps the space feel a bit larger, more open. I feel comfortable in this space. I realized here that I really like floor to ceiling windows. I enjoy seeing the ground to the sky.

Shafer Court

Shafer Court is an great environment for daylight. With glass on 3 sides and from the clerestory windows above, the spaces are bathed in natural light. I was particularly attracted to the shadows and highlights created on the flat battleship gray ceiling. It absorbs the light beautifully and provided at least a wonderful series of photos.