Exterior lighting can greatly enhance the night-time environment. It can extend the uses of an area or activity well into the evening, contributing to real and perceived security at night. On a broader scale, sensitive exterior lighting can instil a feeling of civic pride and significantly contribute to the regeneration of urban areas.

Inappropriate external lighting however is a potential nuisance. It is therefore important that issues such as brightness, direction and context are considered and that light pollution and light trespass are avoided.

It is not only visual impact that counts. The creation of a safe and pleasant environment, the appropriate use of energy, ease of maintenance, the threat of vandalism and harmonising of the appearance of the lighting equipment with its surroundings are all factors that need to be considered.

dpa have completed a wide range of exterior lighting projects, from the delicacy of an individual statue to the rigour of an urban master plan.

The practice has also acted as expert witness in sensitive planning appeals where the potential environmental impact of artificial lighting has been carefully evaluated.