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38 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 4 Lighting P H OTO G R A P H Y BY TO M A R BA N /CO U RT E S Y N EM E T Z (SA) & A SS O C I AT E S; RO B I N S O N L I G H T I N G & BAT H From smart LEDs to outdoor ambiance, discover the latest trends lighting up 2024 by LAURIE JONES L ighting designs and distributors are focused on creating stunning indoor looks and guiding outdoor systems while embracing new technology. This combination is giving rise to unlimited options for every project. One significant advancement in lighting technology is smart lighting, which Daveed Henriquez, client development manager for Williams Engineering, explains: "Not only is smart lighting more energy efficient, but it can also start collecting data on operations of buildings. This is beneficial for buildings such as shopping malls to identify where most of the clients are, enhancing the option of security cameras and cleaning services." Smart lighting enables facilities such as hospitals to collect data that benefits patients. For example, at SickKids Hospital, they use a control system on the wall to adjust lighting for a more comfortable atmosphere for children, offering options like different colours or warmer lights to support cardiac rhythms and aid sleep. When doctors enter the room, the lighting can be increased to around 6,000 Kelvin, helping staff locate veins more easily for procedures like needle insertions. On another note, Henriquez says smart lighting is used with projec- tors on buildings to make the architecture look alive. Henriquez also highlights a new lighting system called LiFi, which boosts internet signal speed when the light is on, operating at the speed of light rather than radio frequencies. "When the light is on, your internet signal or data transferring increases by almost 10 times what we are used to, coming on at the speed of light, not just the radio frequency speed. This technology is very secure as a luminaire fixture because it can only send the information from where the light hits. If the door to the room is closed, the information is not going past the wall." He adds this technology is used by highly secure spaces, and some European cities have even installed it on streetlights. "As always, the more advanced the technology gets and is used in more applications, the less expensive it becomes. Again, this is all being done through lighting." COMPACT POWERHOUSES The team at Nemetz (SA) & Associates highlights the evolution of LED downlights, noting significant reductions in size while maintaining high performance and lumen output. "Two-inch downlights can now deliver up to 2,000 lumens with an integral driver," says Jennifer Lifton, lighting designer at Nemetz. "These options include various optics and dimming protocols, ensuring minimal yet functional lighting solutions." Lifton explains that standard lighting control technologies such as dim- to-warm, tunable white, and colour temperature selection provide lighting designers with ample flexibility for design and specification. "These features are not only architecturally appealing but also meet the diverse needs of interior designers and architects." OUTDOOR LIGHTING Jim Ormshaw, lighting product specialist at Robinson Lighting & Bath, highlights the popularity of rechargeable lamps in today's lighting market. Produced by Visual Comfort & Co., the Modern Collection features seven models of reading lamps. "These products are perfect for outdoor seating areas, patios, restaurants, and personal use at home," he explains. "I personally use one when working late; this small two-watt fixture effectively lights up a 10-by-six table. Plus, with prices starting at $229, depending on the model, and a built-in USB charging base, they offer incredible value." Ormshaw says Robinson has already outfitted a couple of restaurants with 25 to 50 units in a couple of restaurants and is currently working on two contracts that could involve up to 300 lamps. "It's a new trend that's cost-effective because there's no need for wiring or candles for table lighting. They're also suitable for outdoor seating – if the lamps get a little sprinkle of water, they will not be affected," he explains. Ormshaw notes the lamps are available in various colours, including black, white, brass, and glass. He adds customers are also Illuminating Innovations LED downlights The Modern Collection of rechargeable lamps.

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