Light: Towards an Inclusive Perspective

Current research was conducted to gain more insight in how staircase design can contribute in creating a safe and pleasant home environment for older adults. Participants of varying ages (from students to older adults) took part in three studies that combined experimental designs with semi-structured interviews. Renderings of a staircase were created showing different light settings in a nightly situation, from a downward view as well as from an upward view. A mockup staircase with five steps, five different lighting settings and three possible cover materials was custom built. The following specific questions were addressed: (1) which light setting for which cover material can be considered as the most clearly visible and preferred option and (2) what type of additional lighting is best suited at what illuminance level to increase depth perception in stair descent. Guidelines regarding staircase design are formulated by and for (future) interior designers.