The Praise of Light and Shadows
Light and shadow are defining features in the architecture and interior of a building. In an era of modern buildings that are transparent and full of LED installations, the use of shadows has all but been eliminated. The atmosphere created by the shadows and light is often missing from modern buildings, which prioritizes the view over the aesthetics within the building, resulting from the use of artificial lighting and transparent structures.
The use of shadows in interior design and architecture alludes to the passing of time and can change the feel of the space over the course of a day as the light rises and fades. It can create a sense of fluidity in a static building. The shadows offer depth and dimension, defining a space and adds interest to an area.
The architect Louis Kahn was hailed as a master of light whose architecture was shaped by shadow. Kahn stated that “Greek architecture taught me that the column is where the light is not, and the space between is where the light is. It is a matter of no-light, light, no-light, light. A column and a column bring light between them. To make a column which grows out of the wall and which makes its own rhythm of no-light, light, no-light, light: that is the marvel of the artist.”
Japanese structures are also known for their use of shadows in the design. A subtle, indirect light source can set a subdued, warm, tone for the entire room. Shadow becomes the focus of decoration, with recessed spaces such as alcoves utilizing light and shadow to give a sense of depth.
By capitalizing on the features of a home, not a lot of decorating is needed. Too much color or pattern can detract from shapes and details created by the relationship between light and shadow created by architecture or design elements. Using light and shadow can make any room dynamic, can create depth and atmosphere without the need for complex architectural elements. Buildings and interiors that have impressive use of shadows are often minimalist in design.
Changing structures, by modifying walls or adding windows, even skylights, can have an impact on the effects of shadows in a room. Architecture or design features can create patterns on a wall or across a room, which a plain light-colored wall will complement. A textured surface could change the interplay between light and shadow, highlighting how minimal changes can have a big impact on the effect.
Diffusing light to create shadows and darkness. Filtered light, such as through blinds, tinted windows, or a screen, can impact how the shadows form or move across features in a room. In the Middle East, lattice screens are used across the windows, primarily to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building, but it also projects a pattern across the interior. These screens have formed the inspiration for design features across the globe.
Objects placed in a room can complement shadows created from window structures. Interesting designs in chairs, tables, or other interior features, can be used to cast shadows that intertwine with elements from the building or even landscape features outside. Lighting can be used to draw attention to a specific feature in a room, creating a depth of shadow around it.
Natural light is often lauded as a necessity in the use of shadows, but a mixture of natural, ambient, and accent lighting can lend itself to creating the fluidity of shadows. A key is balancing the shadow, creating an aesthetic but not limiting the use of the space. By creating a balance of light, rather than one overarching light that engulfs everything, an atmosphere with stunning design features can be created through shadows.
