The Effect of Lighting and Color on Visibility and Legibility of Historical Buildings at Night

Mehdi SAVARY¹ José AGUIAR² João PERNÃO³

1) 1- CIAUD, Research Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Design, Lisbon School of Architecture, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
2) 1- CIAUD, Research Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Design, Lisbon School of Architecture, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
3) 1- CIAUD, Research Centre for Architecture, Urbanism and Design, Lisbon School of Architecture, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal

Publication : 6th.International Conference on Researches in Science & Engineering & 3rd.International Congress on Civil, Architecture and Urbanism in Asia(6icrsie.com)
Abstract :
Long-standing and ancient urban buildings are landmarks that, using their volumetric and geometric features and decorations, try to attract attention of users and remain in their memory, which is the most important feature of landmarks. In addition to beautifying cities, these historical landmarks are also effective on identifying the historical, geographical, cultural and identity attractions of a region, and even the mental background and thoughts of its inhabitants. In the present century, urban life proceeds in a way that the range of citizen activities continues until late at night, so the nightlife of cities cannot be ignored. A space is affected by lighting from different qualitative aspects, which implies the importance and necessity of the present study. This study used descriptive-analytical method and archival studies to explain the effect of lighting on quality of historical landmarks. Accordingly, two examples were selected as urban landmarks with historical and cultural antiquity affecting the tourism industry in Iran and Japan; by reviewing and analyzing the type of lighting and the effect of night lighting on the nature of the landmark and the surrounding environment at night, this study discussed solution to increase the quality of lighting and its impact on protection of historic buildings. According to the findings, lighting of historical buildings at night can be effective as a solution to increase visibility and legibility and, consequently, development of tourism industry and preservation of historical buildings and districts.
Keywords : landmarks historical districts and buildings night lighting Amir Chakhmaq Square Kanazawa in Japan