Lighting Design

This downlight beam angle guide explains how narrow, medium, and wide beams affect light distribution, spacing, glare, and visual comfort in real spaces. In practice, this guide shows when to use narrow, medium, and wide beams with clear examples. It is written for homeowners, architects, and contractors who want downlights that look clean on site, not just on paper. How Beam Angle Changes What You See A downlight does not “fill a room” by default. It creates a cone of light. The beam angle controls how tight or how wide that cone is. The same lumen package can look punchy, flat, or uncomfortable depending on the optics. For a clear technical definition, see the IES definition of beam angle. As a practical starting point for interior downlights: Visual comparison: narrow, medium, and wide downlight beam spreads at the same ceiling height. What “narrow vs wide” really means in a room Beam angle is not a style choice. It is a performance choice. It controls contrast, spacing, and visual comfort. As a result, you can use it to guide the eye, reduce fixture count, or avoid uneven bright spots. However, one key point remains: beam angle on a spec sheet is only part of the story. Real results depend on ceiling height, trim type, shielding, and the exact IES file for the fixture. Practical Rules for Choosing Beam Angles Use beam angle with three checks: ceiling height, spacing and the task. This keeps the layout simple and avoids the most common mistakes. Below are real-world examples you can apply immediately: Spacing, scallops, and glare control Beam angle also affects how light “prints” onto walls and ceilings. When downlights sit too close to a wall, you will see scallops. If they are too bright or too open, you can get glare and uncomfortable brightness at eye level. To predict wall scallops before installation, use our visual tool here: Lighting Scallops Visualizations. In addition, it helps you test distance-from-wall and spacing so the pattern looks intentional. When the project matters, the clean way to verify beam angle choices is a photometric check using the fixture’s IES file. This shows actual foot-candle levels, uniformity, and where glare risks appear. Real Examples: What Beam Angle to Use Use these examples as a starting point. They reflect typical design intent. Final selection should still be confirmed with the actual fixture optics and the IES distribution. Use this downlight beam angle guide as a reference when reviewing fixture cut sheets and IES files. 30° vs 60° Downlight Beam Angle: Which One to Choose A 30° beam concentrates light into a tighter area. As a result, it creates higher contrast and stronger highlights. It works well for accents, art, and focused task zones, but it can look spotty if used everywhere. A 60° beam spreads light wider for smoother coverage. In most cases, it reduces hot spots and allows wider spacing. It often works better for lower ceilings and general ambient lighting. Simple rule: use 30° when you want focus and contrast. Use 60° when you want even coverage and comfort. If you are unsure, start with a wider beam for the base layer, then add tighter beams only where you need emphasis. In many cases, if your layout looks “busy,” it is often a beam choice issue, not a fixture quality issue. Too many narrow beams create many bright circles. Too many wide beams can flatten the room and reduce visual hierarchy. Common Beam Angle Mistakes to Avoid What is a downlight beam angle? A downlight beam angle is the spread of the main light cone leaving the fixture. Narrow angles concentrate light into a smaller area, while wide angles distribute light across a larger area. What’s the difference between 30° and 60° downlight beam angles? A 30° beam creates a tighter, brighter spot with higher contrast. A 60° beam spreads light wider for smoother coverage, which often reduces hot spots and allows wider spacing. Is 30° or 60° better for general lighting? In most rooms, 60° (or 40°–60°) works better as a general lighting base layer because it looks more even. Use 30° for accents, feature areas, and targeted task zones. How does beam angle affect spacing between downlights? Wider beams usually allow larger spacing because the light overlaps more. Narrow beams need tighter spacing to avoid dark gaps and visible circles on the floor. Does a wider beam reduce glare? Sometimes, but not always. Glare depends on cutoff, shielding, and brightness at typical viewing angles. However, very tight beams can create stronger contrast and more noticeable hot spots if placement is not controlled. Why do I see scallops on the wall from my downlights? Scallops appear when downlights are placed too close to a wall or spaced in a way that creates a repeating pattern. Beam angle and distance-from-wall both change the scallop shape and intensity. Get a Professional Photometric Plan Key Takeaways If you want a layout that installs clean and hits real light level targets, Stetra Lighting can model your fixtures and verify beam angles with photometric calculations. Use the scallops tool to test wall patterns, and reach out when you need a full plan that is ready for construction.

What Is BUG Rating in Outdoor Lighting? Backlight, Uplight, and Glare Explained BUG rating is a key metric used in outdoor lighting design to control light pollution, glare, and unwanted spill. It helps designers, engineers, and inspectors understand how a fixture distributes light beyond the target area. If you work with photometric plans, site lighting, or exterior fixtures, understanding BUG ratings is essential for code compliance and visual comfort. What Does BUG Rating Mean? BUG is an acronym that describes three types of unwanted light output from outdoor fixtures. Each component is measured separately to give a clear picture of fixture performance. The Three BUG Components Each BUG rating is expressed as three numbers, such as B2 / U1 / G3. Lower values mean better control of light. BUG ratings are defined by the IES (Illuminating Engineering Society) and are commonly used in zoning ordinances and outdoor lighting standards. How BUG Ratings Affect Outdoor Lighting Design BUG ratings help ensure outdoor lighting provides visibility and safety without creating excessive glare or light trespass onto neighboring properties. Lighting Zones and BUG Limits Outdoor sites are classified into Lighting Zones (LZ0–LZ4). Each zone sets maximum allowed BUG values based on environmental sensitivity. The following tables display the thresholds for each subzone. BUG ratings are always evaluated using a fixture’s IES file and verified during photometric calculations. Example: BUG Rating in a Real Project In this residential exterior example, three wall-mounted fixtures were analyzed using photometric software and the manufacturer’s IES data. This rating shows moderate uplight and glare, which may be acceptable in residential zones but would likely require adjustment in more sensitive environments. Get a Professional Photometric Plan We create accurate photometric plans that verify BUG ratings, lighting levels, and code compliance. Final Takeaways BUG ratings are a critical part of modern outdoor lighting design. They help control glare, limit light pollution, and ensure fixtures perform as intended. If you need help verifying BUG ratings or preparing a compliant photometric plan, Stetra Lighting can support your project from fixture selection to final approval.

Wall washing is a lighting technique that brings walls to life by creating a smooth, uniform glow across their surface. Whether you’re highlighting architectural details, bold colors, or creating a sense of depth, wall washing is a powerful tool for interior design. From cozy homes to sophisticated galleries, its applications are endless. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the concept, benefits, planning, and implementation of wall washing, along with common mistakes and advanced tips to ensure your project is a success. What is Wall Washing? Wall washing is a lighting technique designed to spread light evenly across walls, enhancing their appearance and creating a polished, professional look. The term originates from the effect it produces—a “wash” of light that minimizes imperfections and highlights the best features of the surface. How It Works Types of Wall Washing Why Choose Wall Washing? Unlike other lighting techniques such as grazing or accent lighting, wall washing prioritizes even light distribution. It’s ideal for flat surfaces, bold colors, and modern, minimalist designs where clean lines and simplicity are key. Types of Wall Washers Mounting Styles 1. Recessed Wall Washers 2. Track-Mounted Wall Washers 3. Surface-Mounted Wall Washers 4. Outdoor Wall Washers Luminaire Types 1. Linear Wall Washers 2. Adjustable Wall Washers 3. High-Output LED Wall Washers Let Us Help You Decide Still unsure which luminaire type suits your space? Contact Stetra Lighting for personalized advice and tailored lighting solutions. Explore our services or order a photometric plan today! Benefits of Even Wall Illumination Wall washing is more than a decorative choice—it’s a practical solution for enhancing the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a space. Here are some of its top benefits: 1. Enhances Spatial Perception Wall washing makes rooms feel larger and more open by drawing attention to the vertical planes of the space. This is particularly effective in small or narrow rooms where maximizing visual space is essential. 2. Highlights Architectural Details From textured walls and decorative finishes to unique architectural elements, wall washing adds dimension and elegance by subtly drawing the eye to key features. 3. Reduces Visual Clutter Unlike accent lighting, which can create sharp contrasts, wall washing provides a clean, uniform look that minimizes visual distractions and imperfections on the wall. 4. Improves Ambient Light Quality The consistent illumination creates a soft, welcoming glow that enhances the overall ambiance of a room. It eliminates harsh shadows and ensures balanced light levels. 5. Offers Flexibility in Design Dimmable options and varying beam angles make wall washing a versatile choice. It can adapt to different moods, functions, and spaces—from warm and inviting residential areas to bright and focused retail environments. Planning Tips For Effective Wall Washing Proper planning is key to achieving the perfect wall-washing effect. Here are some essential steps to guide your design: Step 1: Assess the Space Consider the room’s size, ceiling height, wall texture, and color. These factors will influence the type of fixtures, beam angles, and placement. Step 2: Choose the Right Fixtures Step 3: Calculate Fixture Placement Position fixtures approximately 2–3 feet away from the wall, adjusting based on ceiling height. Proper spacing ensures even light distribution without overlaps or dark spots. Step 4: Select Beam Angles Choose wide beams (40–60°) for general wall washing or narrow beams (15–30°) for focused lighting. Step 5: Consider Color Temperature Wall Washing vs. Other Lighting Techniques Understanding how wall washing compares to other techniques can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your project: Feature Wall Washing Accent Lighting Grazing Lighting Purpose Smooth, even illumination Highlight specific features Emphasize texture Best for Flat surfaces, bold colors Artwork, focal points Textured walls, architectural details Light Distribution Uniform Focused Shadowed, dramatic Key Effect Enhances space and ambiance Adds drama and focus Highlights texture and shadows Common Mistakes in Wall Washing 1. Incorrect Fixture Placement Placing fixtures too close to the wall can create uneven lighting or unwanted shadows. On the other hand, placing them too far away reduces their impact. 2. Overlapping Beams Improper spacing between fixtures can lead to overly bright areas or inconsistent light distribution. 3. Ignoring Wall Color and Texture Dark-colored walls may absorb more light, requiring higher lumens, while textured walls may need grazing instead of washing to highlight their details. 4. Skipping Dimming Options Dimmable fixtures are essential for creating the right ambiance and adapting to different lighting needs. Fixture Placement Demonstration Advanced Tips for Perfect Wall Washing Applications of Wall Washing in Design Wall washing can elevate a variety of spaces. Here’s how it works in different settings: 1. Residential Spaces Create a warm, inviting atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas. Wall washing can also highlight textured accent walls or decorative finishes. 2. Art Galleries Ensure even illumination for artwork, enhancing colors and details without creating glare or shadows. 3. Retail Stores Draw attention to product displays, creating an inviting shopping experience that highlights key merchandise. 4. Commercial and Hospitality Spaces Enhance the ambiance of offices, hotels, and restaurants with professional, polished lighting. 5. Outdoor Areas Use wall washing to illuminate exteriors, such as building facades, garden walls, or pathways, for a dramatic effect. Elevate Your Space with Thoughtful Lighting A well-lit wall does more than improve visibility; it transforms the way a space feels and functions. By implementing this lighting technique, you can enhance design elements, improve ambiance, and create a polished look in any room. Ready to upgrade your lighting design? Visit our lighting design services or order a photometric plan today to get started!

Bar lighting is crucial in creating ambiance, highlighting key design features, and enhancing the overall customer experience. Whether you’re designing a home bar or a commercial space, the right lighting can greatly affect the mood and overall aesthetics of the venue. In this article, we explore three innovative bar lighting solutions with key technologies and examples, featuring product options from Eklipse Lighting and Folio. 1. Pixis Lifeline – Track with Small Pixi Lights One of the most flexible and precise options for bar lighting is the Pixis Lifeline by Eklipse Lighting. This track system uses small Pixi lights to illuminate specific areas with precision. For bar setups, this lighting solution excels when you want to spotlight bottles, artwork, or other important features, allowing you to adjust the position and angle of each light easily. 2. Folio Marble Light – A Stunning Backdrop For a more luxurious and dramatic effect, the Folio Marble Light system is perfect for creating a striking visual behind the bar. Using translucent marble surfaces lit from behind, this lighting option adds a sense of elegance and warmth to the space, making it a centerpiece for any bar. 3. Folio Point Cloud – Dynamic Lighting on Shelves The Folio Point Cloud system offers an innovative way to illuminate shelves and display spaces. Using dynamic point lighting, this system allows for perfect accent lighting on each bottle, making them appear to float in the space. It is a subtle, futuristic solution for adding depth and emphasis to your bar displays. Image Suggestion: Conclusion Choosing the right lighting can transform your bar from a simple service area into a luxurious, inviting space. It becomes a place where people want to gather and spend time. Choose the precise flexibility of Pixis Lifeline. Enjoy the luxurious backdrop of Folio Marble Light. Add dynamic sophistication with the Folio Point Cloud. Your bar lighting will make all the difference in setting the mood and enhancing aesthetics. Elevate your bar lighting with expert solutions. Visit Stetra Lighting to explore our custom lighting services and transform your space today!”