In the heart of Indonesia’s Kayutangan Heritage Area, a beacon of cultural significance stands—the State Electricity Company (PLN) Building. This heritage site, a testament to the region’s rich history, is now the subject of groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing its artificial outdoor lighting, with potential ripple effects across the energy sector.
Sirly Intan Sayekti, the lead author of the study published in *ARTEKS: Jurnal Teknik Arsitektur* (translated to *ARTEKS: Journal of Architectural Engineering*), has turned her attention to the PLN Building, seeking to illuminate its grandeur while preserving its historical integrity. Her research, which leverages the advanced simulation capabilities of DIALux Evo, is set to redefine how we approach lighting design in heritage buildings.
The study’s focus is multifaceted, encompassing average illumination values, lighting uniformity, and glare assessment. “Our goal is to ensure that the lighting design not only meets national and international standards but also respects the cultural significance of the building,” Sayekti explains. The simulation results have revealed a pressing need for intervention, particularly in pedestrian areas and building facades, where lighting levels fall short of the Indonesian National Standard (SNI).
The implications of this research extend far beyond the confines of the Kayutangan Heritage Area. In an era where energy efficiency and sustainability are paramount, Sayekti’s work offers a blueprint for intelligent lighting solutions that balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and energy conservation. “By considering surface materials, functionality, and energy efficiency, we can develop lighting designs that support the preservation of cultural heritage buildings,” she asserts.
The commercial impacts for the energy sector are substantial. As cities worldwide grapple with the challenge of preserving heritage sites while meeting modern energy demands, the principles outlined in Sayekti’s research could pave the way for innovative lighting strategies. These strategies not only enhance the visual appeal of heritage buildings but also contribute to energy savings and reduced carbon footprints.
Moreover, the study’s emphasis on intelligent lighting principles could catalyze the development of smart lighting systems that adapt to the unique requirements of heritage buildings. This adaptability is crucial in a sector increasingly focused on sustainability and technological integration.
As the world turns its gaze towards sustainable and culturally sensitive urban development, Sayekti’s research stands as a beacon of innovation. Her work not only addresses the immediate needs of the PLN Building but also sets a precedent for future projects in the Kayutangan Heritage Area and beyond. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain from these insights, as the drive towards energy-efficient and culturally resonant lighting solutions gains momentum.
In the words of Sayekti, “This research is expected to be the basis for developing sustainable lighting strategies in cultural heritage buildings.” As the industry continues to evolve, her work serves as a reminder of the power of thoughtful design in shaping our built environment.