BUILDING DESIGN SYSTEM

ASSIGNMENT: CEILING AND LIGHTING SYSTEM

SUBMITTED BY:
HAFIZ UZAIR NAEEM UD DIN
M. Arch #13
The ceiling gains a definition,

” A part of a building which encloses and is exposed overhead in a room, protected shaft or
circulation space.”

Types of Ceiling used in Building Construction

Now we will discuss types of ceiling. This would give an idea to decide what would work
best for a new building construction as you have many options for the same. The types are:

 Exposed Ceilings
 Tightly attached ceiling
 Interstitial ceilings
 Acoustical Ceilings
 Radiant Chilled Ceilings
 Convective Chilled Ceilings
 Suspended Ceilings

1. Exposed Ceilings
As shown in figure-1, this kind of ceiling arrangement would completely expose the
structural and mechanical components of the building thus omitting a concept of finished
ceiling. This arrangement lacks a discomfort in aesthetics but gains many advantages like the
economy, easy maintenance due to ease of access. This also enables the thermal mass of the
building to be exposed.

Exposed ceiling example in the interior of an office room

2. Tightly Attached Ceiling
 Tightly Attached Ceiling

3. Interstitial ceilings
An interstitial space is defined as an intermediate space kept between regular-use floors. It is
commonly located in hospitals and laboratory-type buildings to allow space for the
mechanical systems of the building.

Laboratory and hospital rooms are easily rearranged throughout their lifecycles and therefore
reduce lifecycle cost. This ensures more flexibility in the interiors of the building rooms.

 Electrical and communications wiring

 Air-conditioning ducts
 Oxygen
 Chilled water
 Vacuum pipe work
 Chemical sewer pipe work
 Water and waste pipework
 Fuel gas lines
 Compressed air lines

A picture depicting interstitial space arrangement

 A Real Example of Interstitial Ceiling Space Arrangement

The ducts and pipe work occupy some space, which often requires continual maintenance and
are subject to frequent change. The main advantage of interstitial ceilings is that they allow
for maintenance and updating work, without interruption of activities in the spaces above and
below.

4. Acoustical Ceilings
This ceiling is mainly implemented to control sound reverberation in a hall where there is the
possibility of large sound propagation to make the hearing comfort zone. The acoustic ceiling
material is made from fibrous materials that would absorb sound energy unlike other
materials like plaster or gypsum ceilings.
These materials do not reduce transmission of sound between the spaces. They result in a
reduction in the amount of sound that reflects into space.
 A Real Example of Acoustical Ceiling Arrangement

The performance of the ceiling material in terms of sound absorption can be expressed in
terms of noise reduction coefficient (NRC). An NRC of 0.85 means that a ceiling material
absorbs 85% o the sound that reaches it, and an almost 15% reflects back to the room.

Most of the acoustical ceilings NRC range from 0.5 to 0.9. This value is found to be 0.10 for
plaster and gypsum ceiling board materials.

5. Radiant Chilled Ceilings

Radiant chilled ceilings include a network of chilled water coils in ceiling panels with
insulation above. For some systems, pipework may be incorporated into plaster board. But
this is found less efficient as plaster is an insulator.

6. Convective Chilled Ceilings
These types of ceilings are a deviation from radiant chilled ceilings, in which the network of
chilled water pipes incorporates fins, increasing the proportion of cooling that is provided by
convection.

7. Suspended Ceilings
These are secondary ceilings suspended from the structure above (typically a floor or roof
slab), creating a void between the underside of the slab and the top of the suspended ceiling.
This void can provide a useful space for the sprinklers, distribution of heating, ventilation,
and air conditioning (HVAC) services and plumbing and wiring services.

Suspended Ceilings

This is the one that contributes to fire-resistance in commercial and residential construction.
In the case of a dropped ceiling (the other name of suspended ceiling), the rating is achieved
by the entire system, which includes:

 The structure above, from which the ceilings is suspended. This can be a concrete
floor or a timber floor
 the suspension mechanism
 The lowest membrane or dropped ceiling.
8. Coffered ceiling
This ceiling type creates a waffle-like pattern since it’s made up of a grid of sunken panels
accented by molding. It’s a classic ceiling style that is usually found in luxury and high-end
homes. In the past, coffered ceilings were works of art made with prized wood or carved
stone, but now it is available for the cost that of a suspended ceiling. Recessed lighting style
with a chandelier in the center works best with this type.

Cathedral ceiling

Cathedral ceilings, also known as vaulted ceilings, are high and has equally sloping sides that
form an upside-down V, at the highest point possible. It is attached directly to the roof trusses
and rises all the way up to the top of the house, usually soaring to 15 feet or higher. The
trusses themselves need to be wide enough to allow proper ventilation and proper insulation.

 Barrel: This type consists of a single curved arch and is built under the room’s
rafters.
 Groin: Thisceiling has two-barrel vaults that intersect at 90-degrees angles. It creates
four convex or outward-curving ribs that rise from the corners of the room.
 Cloister: This ceiling is similar to a groin vault ceiling. It just differs structurally
because the arch rises from the middle of each wall and not the corners, and the ribs are
concave, and they curve inward.
 Domed: A domed cathedral ceiling is a vaulted ceiling that has a central, spherical
arch.
Coved ceiling
A cove ceiling is characterized by a curved molding that starts from the main walls of the
room up to the actual ceiling, creating a round concave surface at the side. It gives a smooth
transition that makes the room look softer and subtler. It is usually painted with white to
match the floor molding. This type is usually seen on formal rooms and sometimes serves as
arches separating one living space from another.

Beam ceiling

Beam ceilings are gaining popularity in modern rustic and contemporary-styled homes, but it
is actually a traditional style of ceiling in which the load-bearing beams are exposed in the
inside of the house. It creates an interesting depth and contrast to the ceiling. These beams are
usually made of hardwood.

Some houses do not really make use of load-bearing beams, but instead, they use light-weight
faux beams that are designed only for visual impact. It is commonly installed in living rooms
and dining rooms of spacious homes.

Exposed Ceiling
An exposed ceiling is popular in modern industrial interiors. This type of ceiling is
intentionally “unfinished,” but all the elements can be painted for a cohesive look. This is an
inexpensive option. However, the rooms they rise above are naturally noisier and less
insulated. This means having this type of ceiling is also costlier to heat and cool.

Dome Ceiling

Dome ceilings are those that have a spherical center and rises like a dome. They also range
widely in size. Some dome ceilings can take up an entire room while others are just part of
the room. This is a wonderful type of ceiling because it can create a dramatic and elegant
look for homes.

Types of commercial ceilings

Explore different options of ceiling designs

Natural gypsum occurs in sedimentary rock formations. It is one of the most superior

qualities and consistent material. Gypsum rock is mined and quarried, crushed and ground into
a fine powder. Natural gypsum has adequate whiteness, high purity and it is low in cost,

which makes it feasible for the cement industry.

Flu-Gas Desulfurization (FDG) gypsum has been used to manufacture gypsum boards for

more than 30 years. A by-product of desulfurization of flue gas from stacks of fossil-fueled

power plants, emissions captured from smoke stacks can be purified into a hard substance and
manufactured into gypsum. FDG production and sales encourages power producers to

capture “waste” for reuse.

Timber ceilings

Timber ceilings are basically made out of wood that’s prepared for use in building and
carpentry. Ceilings made of timber are not only attractive and unique, but they are also long

lasting. However, before choosing a timber design for your ceiling, take time and choose from
several varieties of wood, a good timber species. It is always advisable to use locally

available material. This is mostly what determines the type of timber to use. Sustainability,

cost, and suitability play a huge role when it comes to choosing.

Timber ceiling
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ceilings

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ceilings are the most common types of ceilings today. PVC is

largely manufactured plastic that is found in different materials from toys to construction
material. Some of the advantages of PVC are it’s affordability, the ease of installation, it’s

hygienic, it’s user friendly and it does not need further finishing after installation. The
best PVC to use is heavily plasticized PVC, which has been found to be quite safe for long

term use

TYPES OF LIGHTING
Introduction

The term ‘lighting’ refers to equipment, the primary purpose of which is to produce light.
This is typically some form of lamp. However, lighting can also refer to the use of natural
light to provide illumination.

Natural lighting

Natural light is that part of solar radiation that is visible to the human eye. Natural lighting,
or daylighting, can play an important role in creating a comfortable environment, helping to
regulate the body clock, improve concentration and create a calm, tranquil setting. Natural
lighting can be exploited by enlarging windows, adding a window on a flanking wall,
changing a non-loadbearing wall into a glass-brick wall, installing a roof light, light tubes,
and so on.

Artificial lighting

Artificial lighting is any form of lighting that is not 'natural'. Typically, artificial lighting is

produced by electrical means. Artificial lights are available in a wide range of
sizes, power, colours, and so on, to suit a variety of applications.

General lighting

General lighting is used to provide illumination over a whole floor area with a high degree of

uniformity. This enables people, plants, furniture and so on to be positioned anywhere in
the space and easily moved without needing to change the lighting array. General lighting is
typically provided by evenly distributed overhead lights.
Ambient lighting

Also known as background or ‘mood’ lighting, ambient lighting creates a soft glow that

gently illuminates an area without causing glare. Light fixtures such as upward facing
wall lights can be effective at creating ambient lighting.

Accent lighting or feature lighting

This type of lighting is used to provide texture and focus to general lighting, and can draw
attention to items on display such as artwork, while shadowing other areas. Accent
lighting might be provided by spotlights, table lamps landscape lighting, and so on.

Task lighting
Task lighting is focused, local lighting used to illuminate a specific area where a task is, or
may be, performed. It is used as a contrasting light, which produces less general glare than if
brighter lights were used to light an entire room. Typical examples of task lighting include;
desk, swing arm, angle poise and floor lamps, under cabinet and vanity lights, pendant and
track lights.

Emergency lighting or safety lighting.

Emergency lighting is installed to provide lighting in the event of mains power failure and

provides sufficient illumination to allow occupants of a building to evacuate safely. Types
of emergency lighting include; emergency exit signs, recessed fluorescent lights, powerful
halogen emergency spotlights for larger spaces, emergency ceiling lights and downlights, and
so on.

Security lighting

Security lighting is generally used to illuminate an area where there is a concern for security.

This may be turned on throughout the hours of darkness, to give visibility of an insecure area,
or it may be turned on temporarily, for example when a person arrives at a property,
sometimes activated by a linked detector.
Construction site lighting

In order that construction work can continue effectively and safely in periods of

insufficient natural light, it is important that a site is fitting with suitable artificial
lighting. Lighting can be used internally for general movement and working on the site itself,
externally for illuminating entry, storage and circulation areas, and can also be an
effective form of deterrent for trespassers.

Lighting for circadian rhythms

A combination of bright light during the day and darkness at night helps maintain the daily
cycle of waking and sleep. Circadian lighting varies in colour and intensity during the day.
The aim is to improve alertness during working hours using bright light, but to switch to
lower brightness, warmer coloured light before it is time to relax.
Different Types of Lighting for Residential and Commercial Buildings
The type of lighting used in a home or commercial building can have a big impact on
personal comfort, functionality and style. Lighting affects daily rhythms, moods, productivity
and even health. Understanding the differences between the types of lighting can help you
pick the right lighting for your needs.

Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting is attractive and soft, and produces a gentler light than track lighting. This
modern fixture is one of the most common light sources in homes and offices. Recessed
lighting has many benefits, including:

 Recessed light fixtures take up virtually no space on the ceiling at all, so that these
light fixtures have a clean, tidy appearance.
 It can be bright and diffuse, or focused and narrow.
 Because recessed lighting is so lightweight, it can be installed nearly anywhere in the
room, regardless of the location of studs.

Track Lighting
Track lighting has been a popular form of lighting in homes and businesses for
decades. Homeowners and businesses owners continue to install track lighting for a variety of
reasons, including:

 Track lighting is a great source of focused, directed light, so it’s perfect for displaying
art work.
 Track lighting bulbs are designed to swivel, so you can change the direction of the
light on an as needed basis.
 This type of lighting is relatively low cost and can even be installed by capable
DIYers.
Overhead Lighting Options
Overhead lighting options can be varied in appearance and functionality. Fixtures can be
flush, semi-flush or pendant-style. Each type of lighting has its own advantages and
disadvantages. In commercial buildings, overhead light options typically take cool, energy
efficient LED light or florescent bulbs. In homes, overhead lighting options often
produce warmer, softer bulbs, for a more welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.

What is Natural Lighting

Day lighting is the controlled admission of natural light, direct sunlight, and diffused-skylight
into a building to reduce electric lighting and saving energy.
The components of a day lighting system are designed to bring natural light into a building in
such a way that electric lights can be dimmed or turned off for a portion of the day, while
preventing occupant discomfort or other building loads from increasing.
Benefits of Natural Lighting
1. Occupant Satisfaction
2. Occupant Comfort
3. Occupant Health-Circadian rhythm
4. Time orientation
5. Color rendition
6. Color Temperature
7. Reduced electrical load
8. Reduced internal heat gain

Principles of Effective Natural Lighting

1. Orientation of the Building
2. Form of the Building
3. Glazing Ratio and specifications
4. Window Height and location
5. Overhead day lighting
6. Daylight Redirection

Form of the Building

Glazing Ratio and Specifications

Glazing ratio= Area of glazing/area of external wall
(25%-50%).
The more the glazing ratio the more day lighting but more the solar heat gain
Optimum glazing ratio depends upon the user requirement, building orientation, location,
View of sky Triple glazing, tinted or reflective glass can reduce day
Lighting but increase thermal comfort.
Overhead day lighting
Skylights can be either passive or active, the majority of skylights are passive
because they have a clear or diffusing medium (usually acrylic) that simply allows
daylight to penetrate an opening in the roof.
They are often comprised of a double layer of material, for increased insulation.
They can be of any shapes.

Tubular daylight devices

1. In architectural design, natural daylight is a crucial component in determining

sustainable building and the quality of an indoor environment.
2. Many significant factors determine the quality and quantity of daylight; site
orientation, form of building and type, size, location of the glazing space.
3. The successful design of healthy building is controlling the natural lighting and
distribute in spaces according to their needs.
4. Using appropriate glazing specification for buildings can result in reduce daylight
levels and decrease in energy use for artificial lighting.