Museums and galleries can be housed within a vast range of buildings, from small collections to national arts complexes, from converted spaces to purpose-built centres. This means that the subject of museum and gallery lighting is extremely challenging.

Conservation, flexibility, drama, daylight control and the provision of optimal viewing conditions are all key lighting issues to be addressed. Consideration to the architecture of the gallery spaces and maintenance issues can also have a significant impact on the lighting design.

dpa has an extensive knowledge and experience of this specialised field. Barry Hannaford was part of the task group responsible for the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers' Lighting Guide LG8: 1994 Lighting for Museums and Art Galleries.