Achieving eff ective wallwashing
requires meticulous optical
design to ensure a uniform
distribution of light, minimize
glare, and maintain consistency
across the illuminated surface.
This delicate balance is
achieved through advanced
lensing, refl ector technologies,
and precise fi xture placement,
all working together to create a
smooth and even wash of light.
Properly executed wallwashing
eliminates harsh shadows and
distracting hot spots, resulting
in a seamless, visually pleasing
eff ect that enhances both the
aesthetics and functionality of a
space.
Beyond its technical aspects,
wallwashing signifi cantly
impacts the way a space is
perceived and experienced.
By evenly illuminating vertical
surfaces, this technique
can make rooms feel more
expansive, creating an open
and inviting atmosphere.
Additionally, it enhances visual
comfort by reducing contrast
imbalances, preventing
eye strain, and fostering a
more harmonious lighting
environment. Whether used in
architectural, commercial, or
residential sett ings, eff ective
wallwashing contributes to
a refi ned and sophisticated
ambiance.
The versatility of wallwashing
makes it a fundamental
lighting strategy across various
environments. In museums
and galleries, it ensures that
artwork is evenly highlighted
without casting unwanted
shadows that could obscure
details. In hospitality and retail
spaces, wallwashing plays
a crucial role in sett ing the
mood, enhancing textures, and
subtly directing att ention to
key design elements, such as
displays, decorative features, or
architectural details. Corporate
offi ces and residential interiors
benefi t from its ability to
create a cohesive and polished
aesthetic, reinforcing a sense
of depth, elegance, and spatial
continuity.
The impact of wallwashing
extends beyond interior spaces,
fi nding signifi cant application
in exterior lighting as well. When
used to illuminate building
façades, monuments, or
landscaped environments,
it adds a sense of drama
and dimension, emphasizing
architectural forms and
enhancing nightt ime visibility.
Thoughtf ully designed outdoor
wallwashing can transform an
ordinary structure into a striking
Optics in lighting control the direction, distribution, and quality of
light, shaping how spaces are perceived. One of the most impactf ul
applications of optical control is wallwashing—a technique that evenly
illuminates vertical surfaces to enhance spatial openness, highlight
textures, and create a visually balanced environment. With the right
optics, wallwashing transforms walls from passive backdrops into key
architectural elements.
OPTICS IN LIGHTING
Draw att ention
to the wall
visual statement, enriching the
surrounding environment and
increasing its presence aft er
dark.
To fully harness the potential of
wallwashing, designers must
carefully select and integrate the
right optics, fi xture positioning,
and beam distributions. By
doing so, they can reinforce
architectural intent, create
immersive spatial experiences,
and elevate the overall
atmosphere of any environment.
As lighting technology continues
to advance, the ability to
achieve precise and energy-
effi cient wallwashing becomes
even more refi ned, off ering new
opportunities to shape and
enhance the built environment
through light.
Architect
Reitsema & Partners
Architecten
Location
Rijssen, The Netherlands
Products
aplis in-line 80
wallwasher
Photographer
Serge Brison
kreon
recessed downlights
48
49
